Monica Serra has a broad background in nutrition, obesity, and exercise physiology. She is a research investigator in the Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology & Palliative Medicine and the Sam and Ann Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies at UT Health San Antonio, as well as at the Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital with the San Antonio Geriatrics Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC). She is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Athletic Trainer, collaborating with an interdisciplinary team to design, conduct, and analyze randomized controlled trials focusing on the clinical application of lifestyle interventions in the prevention and treatment of obesity, chronic disease, and disability in older adults. Monica has over 60 peer reviewed publications and she has completed 30 peer reviewed oral or poster presentations to scientific and professional audiences in addition to serving as an independent course instructor for multiple undergraduate and graduate courses.