Vasilis Vasiliou’s research interests revolve around understanding the etiology and molecular mechanisms of environmentally induced human diseases, such as liver disease, obesity, diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. His research focuses on the exposome (total exposures throughout life), metabolism (e.g. aldehyde dehydrogenases and cytochrome P-450s), and antioxidants (glutathione and catalase) to elucidate how they contribute to human health and disease.
His laboratory uses state-of-the-art integrated system approaches like metabolomics, lipidomics, exposomics, tissue imaging mass spectrometry, deep-learning, mouse models, and human cohorts to unravel mechanisms, discover biomarkers, and develop novel interventions for human disease.
Course name and brief explanation: Hazard Identification (co-taught with Paul Anastas)
What drives you in the work you do? What are you passionate about?
My passion for environmental health stems from a personal experience witnessing pollution's impact. I am driven by the positive impact of my work on community well-being, emphasizing the vital role of environmental measures in safeguarding public health. Continuous learning about the dynamic interactions between the environment and human health fuels my enthusiasm. Problem-solving in environmental challenges and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams inspire me. I am deeply committed to promoting environmental sustainability and ensuring equitable access to a healthy environment. The prospect of personal and professional growth within the field, coupled with innovative approaches to address emerging challenges, excites me. Making a positive difference by preventing environmental hazards and fostering a healthier living environment is my core motivation. Looking forward, my long-term vision involves contributing to sustainable practices and global initiatives in environmental health.
Why did you choose a career in public health?
My career choice in public health stems from a deep passion for environmental health. Witnessing the impact of pollution sparked my commitment to positively influence community well-being. Public health serves as the avenue to implement vital environmental measures for population health. The dynamic nature of environmental interactions and continuous learning opportunities drew me to this field. I am motivated by the chance to address environmental challenges collaboratively and make a tangible impact. My broader goal is to contribute to environmental sustainability and ensure universal access to a healthy environment. Public health's multifaceted nature, offering growth, innovation, and the potential for positive change, perfectly aligns with my vision for creating a healthier and more sustainable world.
What is the most significant challenge facing your field of study today?
In the field of environmental health sciences, the most prominent challenge today lies in addressing a web of interconnected issues. This encompasses climate change, air and water quality concerns, chemical exposures, biodiversity loss, and food safety challenges. Moreover, the field contends with pressing matters like vector-borne diseases, waste management, urbanization impacts, and disparities in environmental justice. The urgent need for continuous research, policy development, and global collaboration underscores the dynamic nature of this field