Parker Nelson is a graduate student in occupational and environmental health, specializing in ergonomics. In this Q&A, he discusses his research journey and his work developing ergonomic strategies aimed at reducing pain and improving function for heavy machinery operators.

Where is your hometown?

I am originally from Huntsville, Alabama.

What is your degree/program of study?

I am an MS student in the department of Occupational and Environmental Health, with ergonomics being my area of focus.

Why did you choose to study public health? What about it interests you?

I have always been interested in health in general and have explored different areas in which I could serve. As I learned more about public health, I realized that it was an avenue that would allow me to reach a large number of people in a positive way. Instead of focusing on a relatively small discipline, public health allows me to see how each field can collaborate to build and maintain healthier communities.

What are your academic and research interests?

While my interests have expanded since joining the college, my primary academic and research interests lie in ergonomics. My current projects involve measuring whole body vibration and seat posture to gain insight into how we can better equip those exposed to vibration while operating heavy machinery.

Tell us about some of the activities you’re involved in outside of the classroom.

Outside of my primary studies I am active within the Occupational and Environmental Health Student Association at Iowa, currently serving as the club’s treasurer. In addition, I aim to represent past, present and future CPH graduate students as a Graduate Student Ambassador.

Why do you think it’s important for students to be involved in these types of activities and how do they prepare students for life after college?

Getting involved is crucial to get the full graduate school experience and grow as much as possible while in the program. Being involved allows you to meet new people, gain leadership experience, and push past what is familiar. There is only so much you can gain from staying in the same bubble!

What are your career plans post-MS?

Frankly, I am still debating whether I want to pursue a PhD. What I know for sure is that I want to work towards obtaining my Certified Professional Ergonomist status and eventually work on designing ergonomic solutions that aim to reduce pain and increase function among those who use them.

What have you enjoyed most about your time at the College of Public Health?

If I had to choose a singular thing that I’ve enjoyed that has stood out, it would be my experience with the faculty in the College of Public Health. I have yet to meet a professor or faculty member who is not eager to see me succeed. Despite some of the course work being challenging, there truly is an environment of support within the college.