Eight prizes were awarded at the School of Public Health and Health Sciences’ 29^th annual Research Day, held May 1 in conjunction with the opening celebration of the SPHHS Hub.

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The event is an annual showcase for research and practice conducted by students working with faculty mentors in all SPHHS departments. Undergraduate and graduate students, as well as postdoctoral researchers, are invited to present their work to faculty, staff, peers, and the broader community. 

This year’s Research Day included four separate sessions in which nearly 100 students presented their work. Participants spanned all SPHHS departments and academic levels – including undergraduate, masters, doctoral and postdoctoral presenters – and served to highlight the depth and breadth of the school’s student research to UMass’ leadership, the school’s donors and community partners and alumni.

Among the awards given at the event were two travel awards for best presentation in health sciences and in public health, three graduate student research awards and three undergraduate student research awards.

“This year’s Research Day was truly inspiring,” says Dean Anna Maria Siega-Riz. “The incredible turnout from our students and faculty surpassed all expectations, showcasing the extraordinary depth and diversity of research happening within our school. It’s clear that the dedication to mentorship and the pursuit of excellence is alive and thriving. This kind of passion doesn’t just fuel groundbreaking discoveries — it builds a vibrant community committed to shaping the future of public health and health sciences. It’s this shared commitment that makes our school such a powerful place to grow, innovate, and lead in the commonwealth.”

More information about Research Day and the complete list of this year’s award winners, their projects and faculty sponsors can be found on the SPHHS website.