WASHINGTON — Robert Burns, Ph.D., has been named vice-president of health and nutrition policy for the Grocery Manufacturers Association, effective Nov. 14.

Dr. Burns most recently was owner of Nutrition Implications, L.L.C., a consulting business, where he helped food organizations and companies develop strategic approaches to nutrition and health, including engagement with external stakeholders and development of research programs and communication initiatives. Prior to that, he held nutrition leadership roles at Cadbury Schweppes and Mead Johnson, where he worked with cross-functional business and technical partners to develop and execute nutrition and wellness strategies.

Additionally, he has authored numerous consumer education articles and peer-reviewed scientific publications. Most recently, he co-authored articles in the journal Food Science and the Journal of the American Dietetic Association on translating the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans to bring about behavior change. Dr. Burns is a member of the American Society for Nutrition, the Institute of Food Technologists and The Obesity Society.

Dr. Burns has a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and a doctorate in nutritional biochemistry, both from Queen’s University, Belfast, Northern Ireland. He conducted postdoctoral research fellowships at Nottingham University, U.K., and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

“I am very pleased to welcome Dr. Burns to G.M.A.,” said Pamela G. Bailey, president and chief executive officer of the G.M.A. “Health and nutrition policy is critically important to G.M.A. and its member companies, and Dr. Burns clearly has the scientific expertise and proven leadership skills to take our work in this area to an even higher level of success.”