The MRC Human Nutrition Research (HNR) was established in 1998 following the restructuring of the Dunn Nutrition Unit, so as to progress the Medical Research Councils portfolio of strategic and applied nutrition research. HNR was set up with a collaborative remit: to pursue research in partnership with national and international stakeholders.

HNR's mission is to advance knowledge of the relationships between human nutrition and health by providing a national centre of excellence for the measurement and interpretation of biochemical, functional and dietary indicators of nutritional status and health. HNR also acts as an independent, authoritative source of scientific advice and information on nutrition and health in order to foster evidence-based nutrition policy and practice.

HNR has developed strong working relationships with government agencies, industry, academic and research institutes, public bodies and charities. Alongside these HNR also works closely with the media to ensure that there is an accurate translation of the research performed, both at the unit and in collaboration with other research institutes in the UK and overseas.