Plugged in to Public Health: How multi-site public health research actually works

In this episode, we sit down with Brian Gryzlak, program director in the department of epidemiology, to talk about what it really takes to coordinate large multi-site epidemiological research. Brian directs Iowa’s participation in PCORnet, a national patient-centered clinical research network that standardizes healthcare data across institutions to support large-scale comparative effectiveness research. Published March 2, 2026

GPCAH accepting applications for pilot projects

The Great Plains Center for Agricultural Health is seeking applicants for pilot projects to promote innovative outreach and research efforts to prevent agricultural injury and illness. The pilot program supports both community-based organizations and academic researchers, especially new investigators and trainees. Proposals addressing mental health, chemical safety, equipment/tool safety, and prevention of slips, trips, and falls are especially encouraged in the 2026-27 application cycle. Published March 2, 2026

MHA alumna Paige Moore named as Forty Under 40 honoree

Paige Moore (10MHA) was named a 2026 'Forty Under 40' honoree by the Des Moines Business Record for demonstrating impressive career achievements and unparalleled community involvement. Moore is CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Iowa. Published March 2, 2026

MHA alumni named as ’40 under 40′ honorees

Three alumni of our MHA program have been recognized as rising young leaders with one honored on Modern Healthcare’s 2026 40 Under 40 list and two named to the Des Moines Business Record’s Forty Under 40.  Published March 2, 2026

Donate to the Staff Council Food Drive through March 26

The UI Staff Council is sponsoring a food drive to benefit the Food Pantry at Iowa. Donations can be placed in the boxes in the CPHB atrium, or if you prefer, a link is available for cash donations.  Published March 2, 2026

Rusmir Hamzic brings global insight to his scientific journey

Rusmir Hamzic is a graduate student in epidemiology with a global perspective and a drive to understand the science behind disease. He recently shared more about his academic interests, life outside the classroom, and the experiences that continue to fuel his commitment to public health. Published March 2, 2026

From Iowa to Disneyland: How CPH alumna Emma Smaellie keeps the magic safe

UI College of Public Health alumna Emma Smaellie (23MS, OEH Industrial Hygiene) plays a behind‑the‑scenes role in one of the most iconic destinations in the world: the Disneyland Resort. As a safety professional supporting thousands of cast members across parks, hotels, entertainment spaces, and specialized crafts, Emma uses her industrial hygiene training to ensure the magic happens safely every day. She shares how she found her path, what her work looks like, and why creating a safer workplace is her favorite part of the job. Published March 2, 2026

Yohanna Bedelu turns data into better health outcomes

Yohanna Bedelu is a biostatistics graduate student who enjoys tackling complex clinical and public health questions through data. In this Q&A, she reflects on her interdisciplinary academic path, her hands-on research experiences, and where she hopes her training will take her next. Published February 25, 2026

New research sheds light on how parents teach children to navigate physical risk

A study from CPH assistant professor Elizabeth O'Neal offers fresh insight into how mothers and fathers guide elementary‑aged children through potentially risky physical activities, and how these approaches differ for sons and daughters. Published February 24, 2026

Plugged in to Public Health: Lessons from MHA summer experiences

In this episode of Plugged in to Public Health, three second-year MHA students reflect on their summer internship experiences and the lessons they are carrying forward into their administrative fellowships. Published February 23, 2026