Research Day 2025 highlights innovation in population health

The John D. Bower School of Population Health hosted its third annual Research Day on May 14, 2025, celebrating the outstanding research contributions of its students and faculty. This year’s event continued the tradition of spotlighting the dynamic and interdisciplinary work taking place across the school’s academic departments.

Research Day featured both poster and oral abstract presentations by master’s and doctoral students, as well as faculty. Topics ranged from metabolic disease and maternal health to climate data modeling and the health impacts of neighborhood green spaces. The diversity of subjects underscored the school’s commitment to addressing complex public health challenges through innovative and data-driven approaches.

Population health science doctoral student Salit Chakma was recognized with the Best Abstract Presentation award for their project, "Mapping and Characterization of the Humid Heat Waves in Mississippi Using Downscaled NLDAS Data." The study drew attention for its timely relevance and rigorous use of environmental data to inform public health preparedness in the Deep South.

Events like Research Day not only provide students with an opportunity to showcase their scholarship but also foster interdisciplinary collaboration and dialogue among peers and mentors. The Bower School is proud to support a learning environment where emerging researchers are tackling the most pressing issues in population health.

As Research Day grows each year, it continues to reflect the school's mission: improving health outcomes through evidence-based science and community-focused inquiry.