MSCR student expands clinical interests through food intolerances, breath work, and sustainable health.
With the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) gearing up to host Research Week from May 12-16, we’re shining a spotlight on our student researchers.
Michelle Berg, a student in the Master of Science in Clinical Research program at the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM), was drawn to the field by a desire for a more fulfilling career in health. Initially focused on the gut microbiome, her interests have since broadened to include lesser-understood conditions in medicine.
Through research projects exploring the gut microbiome, mindfulness, and anxiety, she continues to seek meaningful ways to contribute to the evolving landscape of clinical research.
Michelle Berg ’26
Program: Master of Science in Clinical Research (MSCR)
Hometown: Fairfax, VA
What are your research interests?
A personal experience with digestive issues and food intolerances sparked a deeper interest in the microbiome and the power of holistic health in supporting the body’s natural function. That realization ultimately led me to pursue a more meaningful path in clinical research.
While I was initially drawn to gut health and its powerful influence on so many bodily functions, as I progress through the MSCR program and gain exposure to a wide range of topics through coursework and research projects, my interests continue to expand.
I’m particularly intrigued by conditions that are not yet well understood and lack definitive cures such as autoimmune disorders, autism, and Alzheimer’s disease. I’m also deeply passionate about global health. My experience as the U.S. Chief Operations Officer for the non-profit organization Ambassadors for Sustained Health sparked a lasting interest in how sustainable healthcare systems can be developed in under-resourced communities. Whether this journey leads to a second degree is still to be determined—but the curiosity is definitely there!
What research are you working on now?
Since starting the MSCR program at NUNM, I have had the privilege of joining several exciting and diverse research projects. Currently, I’m part of the Neurotrauma Evidence Synthesis Training (NEST) program, led by Dr. Joshua Goldenberg, contributing to the Cognition and Microbiome Umbrella Review.(1) I am also working with Dr. Ryan Wexler on his Move-MORE Mindfulness Program, which explores the potential of mindfulness and physical activity to reduce symptoms of lumbosacral radiculopathy. Additionally, I have been supporting [fellow student] Daniele ZuZero on her thesis project, which investigates craniosacral therapy for chronic pain using a cross-sectional study design.
Most recently, I joined a feasibility study to help evaluate a mobile breathing app for anxiety management—a collaboration between Dr. Heather Zwickey and FlowMD mobile application program developers at San Francisco State University. This project appealed to me as a long-time yogi, practicing both traditional and modern techniques, as yoga emphasizes breath work to guide the practice.
Alongside these projects, I am in the process of developing my own thesis on histamine intolerance, working closely with Dr. Amy Bader. This research is incredibly exciting, and I am eager to see where it leads, both for the project itself and for my broader journey in clinical research.
Why is NUNM a good place to do research?
I joined the MSCR program this fall, coming from a full career in retail finance in NYC. While I enjoyed the analytical side of that work—numbers have always spoken to me—I felt unfulfilled in the industry. Health, wellness, and mindfulness have been central to my life for as long as I can remember, so it wasn’t a huge surprise when I discovered a passion for holistic research.
NUNM has given me the opportunity to gain hands-on research experience across a diverse range of holistic health topics and study designs, while learning from faculty and peers with remarkable knowledge and expertise. What has been most valuable, though, is the supportive and welcoming environment I have felt from day one. I have had the chance to build meaningful relationships with research mentors and peers who have not only invited me onto their projects but also offered guidance and encouragement as I explore my evolving interests.
Making the bold decision to leave a career I spent years building was both scary and uncertain, but my experience at NUNM has reassured me that I’m on the right path and I’m genuinely excited to see where it leads next.
Research Sources:
Joshua Goldenberg, Richard D. Batson, Traver Wright, Ryan Wexler, Kristen McGovern, Navneet Venugopal, Weston Ward, Kathleen Randolph, Randall Urban, Richard Pyles, Melinda Sheffield-Moore. Cognition, brain fog, and the microbiome: an overview of reviews. PROSPERO 2023 CRD42023412903. (1)