W. Jay Christian

Redefining the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of public health, Dr. W. Jay Christian serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Epidemiology at the University of Kentucky College of Public Health. With a keen focus on environmental exposure assessment and the spatial analysis of health-related data, Dr. Christian employs Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial statistics to unravel complex health issues. Dr. Christian's research portfolio is diverse, encompassing injury prevention, smoking-related cancers, health disparities, and environmental exposures. His work is pivotal in understanding how spatial factors influence health outcomes, thereby contributing to more effective public health interventions. His innovative approach to research has made significant strides in addressing critical health challenges. In addition to his research endeavors, Dr. Christian is dedicated to education, teaching both undergraduate and graduate courses in disease mapping, spatial analysis, and data visualization. His commitment to teaching ensures that the next generation of public health professionals is well-equipped with the skills necessary to tackle future challenges in the field. Before his current academic role, Dr. Christian gained valuable experience as a staff epidemiologist at the UK Markey Cancer Control Program and the Kentucky Injury Prevention & Research Center. These roles provided him with practical insights into the application of epidemiological principles in real-world settings, further enriching his teaching and research. Dr. Christian's work is instrumental in bridging the gap between environmental health and epidemiology, making significant contributions to the understanding of how environmental factors impact health disparities. His research not only advances academic knowledge but also informs policy and practice, aiming to create healthier communities through evidence-based strategies.