The method developed by Assistant Professor Silvia Balbo may help researchers uncover the genetic chemistry leading to cancer development, which has broad applications ranging from understanding how toxins are affecting DNA in the body to developing tools to improve outcomes of chemotherapy.
Faculty
University honors Begun with major education award
Professor Jim Begun received the Award for Outstanding Contributions to Graduate and Professional Education and becomes a member the University’s Academy of Distinguished Teachers. Begun focuses on building engagement with students to make learning more effective and is a past recipient of SPH’s Leonard M. Schuman Award for Excellence in Teaching.
Basta awarded selective McKnight Land-Grant Professorship
The University chose Assistant Professor Nicole Basta for one of the most sought-after faculty awards at the University of Minnesota. Designed for new assistant professors, the two-year professorship acknowledges Basta’s promise, her track record of innovative research and funding success, and her commitment to teaching and service.
Independent Research Needed to Understand Risks of IQOS Tobacco Heating Device
A commentary by Associate Professor Irina Stepanov underscored how toxicity and other IQOS health data are mostly available through studies conducted by the manufacturer, and that independent, academic research into the product is needed to accurately inform and protect the public.
Prevention System Helps Community Coalitions Solve Local Health Problems
A study by Associate Professor Sonya Brady shows that the “Communities That Care” model helps local stakeholders work together to analyze and stop some of the major health issues threatening their own neighborhoods.
SPH News Headlines – February 2019
Recent media coverage of University of Minnesota School of Public Health faculty, researchers, students, and post-doctoral fellows.
Structural Factors Shape the Effects of the Opioid Epidemic on Pregnant Women and Infants
A commentary by Associate Professor Katy Kozhimannil says addressing the well-being of infants with opioid-affected births requires renewed efforts to prevent, detect, and treat opioid use disorders among mothers.
Commentary Examines Proposals for Controlling Medicare Part B Drug Costs
Professor Jon Christianson co-authored a commentary describing a range of proposals by the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) to address rapidly increasing pharmaceutical expenditures.
U of M Receives $5.4 Million Gift to Address Supply of Critical Medicines Worldwide
Professor Michael Osterholm is leading research to improve the healthcare system’s ability to maintain a steady and adequate amount of critical medicines and supplies worldwide.
CIDRAP Developing Influenza Vaccines Roadmap
Regents Professor Michael Osterholm is leading the effort aimed at accelerating progress toward creating universal influenza vaccines.
Mesothelioma in Taconite Workers Most Likely Due to Asbestos
New analysis by Emeritus Professor Jeffrey Mandel suggests that mesothelioma cancers in Minnesota’s taconite workers were likely caused by breathing in fibers from asbestos products used in the early days of mining operations.
Rates of Social Isolation Vary by Rurality and Demographics
Research by Assistant Professor Carrie Henning-Smith reveals that people in rural areas reported less social isolation and more social relationships than urban residents.