April 8, 2024
Whether you’re local or global, student or alumni, the Abstract’s weekly news digest will help you stay in the loop with our amazing Gillings School community.
Doctoral Candidate selected for new pilot program
Maternal and Child Health Doctoral Candidate, Alexandria Coffey has been selected for The Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) Program sponsored by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. This is a two-year initiative that prepares graduates for leadership roles in the federal government. Finalists gain exclusive access to federal job postings and undergo a standard hiring process, with about 60-70% obtaining employment in the federal government. The program emphasizes training, development, and networking opportunities.
Scientist receives young investigator award
Dr. Anne Starling, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Epidemiology at the Gillings School of Global Public Health at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and an adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Epidemiology at the Colorado School of Public Health, has won the 2023 Lou Guillette Jr. Outstanding Young Investigator Award12. This award is given annually to an early-career scientist who studies endocrine-disrupting chemicals1. Dr. Starling’s research focuses on how chemical exposures, such as PFAS in drinking water, may increase the risk of chronic disease1. She is recognized for her dedication to mentoring, her impact on human health, and her innovative research program2.
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Grant awarded
Dr. Natalicio Serrano has received a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Grant to study how neighborhood development influences physical activity in Latino and Black communities. The upcoming study will assess the effects of development in specific neighborhoods in Chapel Hill and Durham. Interviews with residents, advocacy groups, government representatives, and researchers will be conducted as part of the study.
New society-based publication published
Dr. John Batsis published an article covering current concepts about the intricate interplay among the stomach, liver, pancreas, brain, and metabolic processes of the body. It also highlights the recognition of obesity as a chronic disease by medical organizations. The article emphasizes the need for integrating these guidelines into multifaceted and interdisciplinary care of older adults.
