Food Science, Nutrition and Sustainable Food Systems

Dr. Tetsuo Nakamoto is a distinguished academic, scientist, and innovator whose career spans over six decades in the fields of dentistry, physiology, and nutritional biochemistry. His dedication to advancing science and education is evident through his extensive academic training, groundbreaking research, and leadership in both academia and industry.

Dr. Nakamoto began his academic journey at Nihon University in Tokyo, Japan, where he completed a Pre-Dental Course from 1958 to 1960. He then pursued his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree at Nihon University’s School of Dentistry, graduating in March 1964. Driven by a desire to deepen his knowledge, he continued his studies in the United States, earning a Master of Science (MS) in Prosthodontics from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, in August 1966.

Expanding his academic horizons beyond dentistry, Dr. Nakamoto obtained a second MS degree in Physiology from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine in 1969. He further pursued advanced studies at the University of Michigan Medical School, where he earned another MS in Physiology in December 1971. His academic excellence culminated in a PhD in Nutritional Biochemistry and Metabolism from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1978.

Throughout his career, Dr. Nakamoto held several prominent academic appointments at the LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. He began as an Assistant Professor of Physiology in 1978 and rose through the ranks to become Professor of Physiology, holding joint appointments in the School of Medicine, School of Dentistry, and Graduate School until 2006. From 2000 to 2006, he also served as Professor of Pediatrics in the Department of Pediatrics. In recognition of his lasting contributions, he was named Professor Emeritus in 2006.

Beyond his academic achievements, Dr. Nakamoto is a pioneering entrepreneur and researcher. He is a founding member, Co-CEO, and Chief Scientific Officer of both the Theodent and Theodent Holding Company, based in the Greater New Orleans area. Since 2007, he has played a key role in translating his research into the development of innovative [text cut off in image].

Dr. Nakamoto is an active member of several esteemed professional organizations, including the American Society for Nutritional Sciences and the American Physiological Society. He was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society by the Theta Kappa Chapter in 1988, recognizing his outstanding contributions to dental education and research.