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Welcome From the Chair

A headshot of Dr. Jason Salemi smiling in front of a blurred background.

From the Chair of Epidemiology

Dear Students, Colleagues, and Friends,

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the Department of Epidemiology at the University of South Florida College of Public Health. As one of the fundamental sciences of public health, epidemiology plays a critical role in understanding disease patterns, identifying risk factors, and improving health outcomes through data-driven research and action. Whether you are a prospective student, current scholar, or research partner, we are excited to share our department’s mission, expertise, and vision with you.

Our faculty are nationally recognized experts in areas such as causal inference, advanced quantitative methods, infectious and chronic diseases, maternal and child health, cancer epidemiology, and environmental exposures. We are committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive academic community where students engage in rigorous research, develop critical analytical skills, and work alongside faculty on studies that have real-world impact. Through structured mentorship, hands-on learning, and interdisciplinary collaborations, we empower students to become leaders in academia, government, healthcare, and industry.

Beyond the classroom and laboratory, our department is deeply embedded in the communities we serve. We take pride in translating research into action, working alongside public health professionals, policymakers, and community organizations to address pressing health challenges. This commitment to both scientific excellence and community engagement sets us apart, ensuring that our work not only advances knowledge but also drives meaningful change.

Our collective vision is to build a department that thrives on innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improving public health. We are dedicated to expanding research opportunities, strengthening faculty-student connections, and continuously evolving our curriculum to reflect the needs of the field. As we embark on this journey together, I invite you to explore our programs, connect with our faculty, and join us in advancing the future of epidemiology.

Jason L. Salemi, PhD, MPH, FACE
Interim Chair, Epidemiology

jsalemi@usf.edu
(813) 974-9449