Dr. Laura Raymond is a research biochemist studying interactions of nutrients involved in neurological health and development.

She received her Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology with an emphasis in nutritional metabolism from the University of North Dakota (UND).

Her doctoral training was completed at the Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center investigating trace metal physiology. For the past 15 years, her research focus has been on evaluating the role of selenium (Se) in the prevention of mercury’s (Hg) toxic effects on fetal and childhood development and the importance of ocean fish consumption, especially during pregnancy.

This research includes a series of investigations to determine the influences of Hg and Se on each other’s uptake, retention, tissue distribution, and the neurobehavioral and neurofunctional effects of methylmercury toxicity.

Because of the importance of essential nutrients provided by ocean fish, her work is linked to omega-3 fatty acid research and the roles of nutrients in prevention and treatment of neuropathology’s involving visual pathways, autistic disorders, PTSD, and other diseases.

Dr Raymond is the executive producer and technical advisor of the NOAA-funded PBS documentary; Fish, Mercury, and Nutrition: The Net Effects as well as its video clips and educational resources.

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