Faculty

From equations to impact: Advancing public health through biostatistics

Q&A with University of Michigan research Jian Kang on mental health, aging and cancer

Jian Kang is a professor and associate chair for Research in the Department of Biostatistics at Michigan Public Health, where he develops cutting-edge statistical methods for analyzing complex biomedical data. He’s particularly interested in brain-computer interfaces and neuroimaging, developing methods that help researchers better understand how the brain works and how it changes with age or disease.

Firearm violence in communities increases risk of cardiovascular disease death, study finds

Michigan Public Health researchers find connection between community gun violence and heart disease deaths, suggesting violence prevention could be reframed as cardiovascular health strategy for communities.

Health policy researcher seeks better care for everyone

Q&A with University of Michigan researcher Micah Aaron on healthcare equity, systems reform and social change

Micah Aaron grew up witnessing inequality firsthand in Detroit, which shaped her mission as a health services researcher. Now as an assistant professor of Health Management and Policy at Michigan Public Health, she studies healthcare systems, hospital consolidation, and value-based care to ensure quality healthcare works for everyone, especially those who need it most.

Kelley Kidwell to serve as interim associate dean for faculty affairs

Kelley Kidwell, internationally recognized biostatistician, will serve as interim associate dean for faculty affairs at Michigan Public Health starting July 1, 2025, filling the role vacated when Lynda Lisabeth became interim dean.

On the Heights: July 2025

Departmental news, research highlights, community achievements, and more to help you stay connected with the Michigan Public Health community.

New study on TB transmission among minorities in Arkansas highlights urgent need for focused prevention

Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander and Black Arkansans experience a substantially higher risk of recently transmitted TB

A new study from Michigan Public Health and the Arkansas Department of Health reveals that, despite low overall rates, tuberculosis (TB) continues to disproportionately affect Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, Black, and Hispanic communities in Arkansas. The research highlights growing rates of recent TB transmission and calls for targeted prevention efforts and improved access to care to address persistent disparities.