Johansen: I was inspired to pursue an MPH in the EMD Department because I wanted to continue to develop strong quantitative skills that I could use to improve and protect the health of people in my community. I am interested in the intersection between climate change, infectious diseases, and health equity; that is the work I feel dedicated to and the lens through which I tend to view new ideas and issues.
EMD Student Spotlight Series: Haven Johansen
Please tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to pursue an MPH in the EMD Department at the Yale School of Public Health?
How would you describe your experience so far at YSPH?
Johansen: I have loved my time at YSPH. I learn so much every day. I feel like I’m surrounded by people who are invested in addressing the same global challenges as I am and who are bringing a wealth of different experiences and knowledge to the task. Also, it’s delightful to spend time around people whose idea of small talk involves discussing rabies, intestinal parasites, or avian flu. I feel like I’ve found my field.
Please give a brief introduction to your work in neglected tropical diseases and public health
Johansen: I work on two main projects right now. First, I curate the Health Attribution Library (healthattribution.org), which is a database tracking health impact attribution studies. Second, I am using geospatial analysis to examine healthcare system vulnerability and sea level rise globally.
What are you involved in at YSPH?
Johansen: I am a research assistant in the Carlson Lab and a Fellow in Climate Change Health Attribution at the Yale Center on Climate Change and Health. I am also pursuing the Public Health Modeling Concentration.
What are you looking forward to at YSPH?
Johansen: Many of my plans are still taking shape, but I’m looking forward to continuing my research. I’m currently learning the methodology behind health impact attribution in preparation to conduct an attribution study on an infectious disease this summer. I’m also generally looking forward to building my R and ArcGIS skills and learning more about statistical and mathematical modeling.
How has the EMD Department supported your research and academic goals?
Johansen: People in the EMD Department have been very generous with their time and expertise, and I feel that I’m in constant communication with faculty, staff, and trainees who support and challenge me. Every conversation I have with someone in the department leaves me with a new paper to read, a new question or idea to pursue, a new person to connect with, or an upcoming talk to attend.
What advice would you give to prospective students considering applying to the EMD training programs at Yale?
Johansen: I remember feeling that no other MPH programs fit my interests as well as the EMD program at YSPH. This program really allows you to specialize, especially if you are interested in modeling, climate change, or another topic of concentration, while fulfilling the EMD curriculum requirements at the same time. If this sounds like a good fit for you, I encourage you to apply.