The University at Albany's (UAlbany) School of Public Health is a hub for innovative research, academic excellence, and community engagement. The faculty members of the Public Health Department at UAlbany are renowned experts in their fields, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and translational research, the department is committed to addressing the most pressing public health challenges of our time.
Faculty Expertise and Research Focus

The Public Health Department at UAlbany boasts a diverse faculty with expertise in a wide range of areas, including epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health behavior, and health policy. Faculty members are actively engaged in research projects that aim to understand and mitigate the impact of various health risks, such as infectious diseases, chronic diseases, and health disparities. For example, Dr. Janani Rajbhandari-Thapa, an assistant professor in the department, focuses on the social determinants of health and health disparities, with a particular emphasis on the experiences of marginalized communities.
Key Research Areas and Initiatives
Some of the key research areas and initiatives within the Public Health Department at UAlbany include:
- Investigating the impact of climate change on human health, with a focus on heat-related illnesses and vector-borne diseases
- Developing and evaluating interventions to reduce health disparities and improve health outcomes in underserved populations
- Examining the relationship between environmental exposures and human health, with a particular emphasis on air and water pollution
- Understanding the social and behavioral determinants of health, including the role of socioeconomic status, education, and social support
Faculty Member | Research Focus |
---|---|
Dr. Tomoko Udo | Health behavior, obesity prevention, and health disparities |
Dr.zvinka Zafiropoulos | Epidemiology, infectious diseases, and global health |
Dr. Erin Bell | Environmental health, air pollution, and cardiovascular disease |

Key Points
- The Public Health Department at UAlbany is a leading institution for public health research and education
- Faculty members have expertise in a wide range of areas, including epidemiology, biostatistics, and health policy
- The department is committed to addressing health disparities and promoting health equity through innovative research and community engagement
- Students have opportunities to work with renowned faculty members on cutting-edge research projects and develop practical skills in public health practice
- The department's location in the capital city of New York provides unique opportunities for collaboration with state and local health agencies, as well as community-based organizations
Academic Programs and Curriculum

The Public Health Department at UAlbany offers a range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees in public health, as well as certificates in specialized areas such as epidemiology and health education. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in public health principles, as well as specialized knowledge and skills in their chosen area of focus. Courses are taught by experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in research and practice, providing students with a unique blend of theoretical and practical knowledge.
Student Opportunities and Resources
Students in the Public Health Department at UAlbany have access to a range of resources and opportunities, including:
- Research assistantships and internships with faculty members and community-based organizations
- Professional development workshops and seminars on topics such as grant writing, research design, and data analysis
- Networking opportunities with alumni and professionals in the field through events and conferences
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including computer labs and research centers
What are the admission requirements for the MPH program at UAlbany?
+Admission to the MPH program at UAlbany requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, as well as a minimum GPA of 3.0. Additional requirements include letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and official transcripts.
What kind of research opportunities are available to students in the Public Health Department?
+Students in the Public Health Department at UAlbany have access to a range of research opportunities, including assistantships with faculty members, internships with community-based organizations, and independent research projects. Students can work with faculty members on cutting-edge research projects, present their findings at conferences, and publish their work in peer-reviewed journals.
What kind of career opportunities are available to graduates of the Public Health Department?
+Graduates of the Public Health Department at UAlbany are prepared for a range of career opportunities in public health, including positions in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private industry. Alumni have gone on to work in roles such as epidemiologists, health educators, and program managers, among others.
Meta Description: Learn about the Public Health Department at the University at Albany, including faculty expertise, research focus, academic programs, and student opportunities. Discover how UAlbany is addressing pressing public health challenges and promoting health equity through innovative research and community engagement. (147 characters)