Dean Thomas Dobbs highlights key milestones across the School of Population Health, from Research Day to the Asylum Hill Project, while underscoring the school’s growing impact on health outcomes across Mississippi.

From data science to community health, SOPH Research Day brought together students and faculty to present work that is shaping policy, improving outcomes and addressing real-world health challenges.

A Mississippi native and global leader in cancer genomics, Dr. John D. Carpten returned to SOPH to challenge students to pursue innovation, representation and impact in the future of precision medicine.

SOPH students earned multiple awards at the 2026 Mississippi Academy of Sciences meeting, highlighting research excellence, strong mentorship and growing impact in data-driven health solutions.

After her own cancer diagnosis, Dr. Manju George transformed her research focus to center patients and communities, advancing education, advocacy and cancer prevention efforts across Mississippi.

After a personal loss shaped his path, Hunter Sylvester found purpose in biostatistics, gaining hands-on research experience and mentorship that prepared him for a career in data-driven health science.

SOPH students are leading research across disciplines, presenting at Grand Rounds, advancing policy discussions and earning recognition for their work across Mississippi and beyond.

From wellness to outreach, School of Population Health students build connection, creativity and community.

Three doctoral students tackle pressing issues in maternal health policy, Alzheimer’s disease modeling and environmental health, showcasing the real-world impact of SOPH research.

Dr. Jeannette Simino, who came to teaching reluctantly, has grown into that role exceptionally. She has received the 2026 Regions Bank TEACH Prize – a rewarding development not only for her career, but because of her generosity, for her department as well.

The long-term commitment of Dr. Caroline Compretta, assistant vice chancellor for research, to health equity, community partnerships and research has landed her in the top echelon of academic achievers.

Faculty and students continue to advance population health through national presentations, awards and publications addressing issues from maternal health to health equity and data science.

Researchers at the School of Population Health are uncovering thousands of unmarked graves on UMMC’s campus, combining science and history to restore identity, dignity and understanding to those long forgotten.

Students at the John D. Bower School of Population Health gained valuable first-hand learning experiences through the Population Health Science Lecture Series, the Biostatistics and Data Science Seminar Series and other events that brought leading thinkers and practitioners to campus.

Recent faculty and leadership appointments reflect continued growth across the School of Population Health and its expanding role in research, education and clinical collaboration.

Check out what's coming up at the John D. Bower School of Population Health!