Epidemiology

Director:

Kiang Liu, PhD

Co-Directors:

Martha Daviglus, MD, PhD

Donald Lloyd-Jones, MD

Mission Statement

To study the distribution and determinants of complex diseases and conditions in diverse populations, and to identify and assess novel risk markers and prevention strategies for disease development and progression. The Epidemiology Division is dedicated to educating and training pre- and postdoctoral students, university faculty, and community members in the use of cutting-edge epidemiology, biostatistics and bioinformatics methodology to apply and translate research findings to improve public health.

Objectives

• To conduct local, national and international collaborative studies to enhance the understanding of the natural history and etiology of various chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, obesity, diabetes, pulmonary disease, arthritis and chronic kidney disease and to initiate new research studies to address timely public health challenges

• To perform translational research by applying novel biomarkers, imaging techniques, gene expression profiles and metabolomics patterns to elucidate mechanisms of disease and thereby develop potential preventive strategies

• To identify individuals and groups at high risk for developing certain chronic diseases who merit early or intensive prevention efforts, by developing and applying refined statistical and epidemiological methods to population-based cohorts. 

• To conduct randomized controlled clinical trials to evaluate primary and secondary prevention strategies for addressing certain chronic diseases.

• To maintain a high-quality teaching program to educate graduate (M.S., M.P.H., or Ph.D.) and post-graduate students in interpreting and conducting epidemiological research.

Contact Shane Holmes (312 503-0696) for more information about this program.