Research

An animated gif of a robot throwing donots and then getting hit in the face with an apple

Game on

Transforming smartphones into health-boosting tools

What if the power behind the programs that keep us leashed to our devices actually delivered good health, disease prevention—even digital vaccinations? Rahul Ladhania, assistant professor of Health Informatics, Biostatistics and Health Management & Policy at Michigan Public Health, is part of a team of global researchers doing the painstaking work of subverting the formidable powers of computer algorithms into a force for good.

Jennifer Head in a field with protective mask and gloves

The first line of defense

Investigating the spread of fungal infections due to climate change

Fungal pathogens are often somewhat of an apparition, an unexpected and seemingly invisible opponent of good health, until they are exposed under a laboratory lens or on a chest X-ray. Jennifer Head is helping to compose the book on understanding these potent vectors of disease, which sometimes can be misdiagnosed as pneumonia, tuberculosis or cancer.

FRom left to right, Justin Colacino, Xiang Zhou, Irina Gaynanova and John Piette

The future is here

Michigan Public Health is taking bold steps with AI

AI is not only enhancing the way knowledge is generated and shared, but it’s also redefining the potential for healthcare and public health advancements. Behind its research might, the University of Michigan School of Public Health leads the charge in this transformative paradigm shift.

Dean F. DuBois Bowman at the 2025 graduation ceremony at Hill Auditorium

Advancing a healthier world for all

By integrating AI into research, Michigan Public Health faculty are pioneering advancements in data analysis, optimizing healthcare resources, and exploring new methodologies for addressing health issues. Explore how Michigan Public Health is using AI to drive change and learn more about the transformative power of this initiative.

A firefighter putting out a fire with foam

Protecting populations from dangers of PFAS exposure

Jackie Goodrich, a research associate professor in the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, studies PFAS chemicals in firefighting gear and their health risks like cancer. PFAS alter gene expression and persist in the environment. New EPA rules aim to mitigate exposure and protect public health.

A plant illustration growing and blossoming

Living fuller lives

Finding innovative ways to foster purposeful living and positive social connections

Americans of all ages face increasing loneliness and mental health issues. Michigan Public Health is addressing this crisis through research by faculty such as Victor Strecher promoting purposeful living, Lindsay Kobayashi studying health impacts of loneliness, and John Piette’s SPEAK! program fostering social connections.