Sturgeon, Whitcomb Appointed to SPHHS Leadership Positions
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The SPHHS announced the appointment of Professor of Epidemiology Susan Sturgeon as its Associate Dean for Research (ADR). Sturgeon will take over the position from Brian Whitcomb, who will assume the role of Chair of the Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology. Both roles will be effective on September 1st.
Sturgeon joined UMass Amherst in 1999 and has held numerous leadership positions within the SPHHS, including Interim Chair of the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, and before that, Chair of Public Health prior to its split into three departments. Her research primarily focuses on the epidemiology of hormonally related cancers, including breast and endometrial cancer. Her research portfolio includes studies on the effects of pomegranate juice on hormonal markers of breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women; the role of melatonin in the etiology of breast cancer; and the discovery of epigenetic markers of breast cancer risk. She is also interested in the potential role of serum markers of immune function and melanoma risk.
"Susan Sturgeon has had consistent NIH funding and has worked with many junior faculty and students," said Dean Anna Maria Siega-Riz in a message to the campus community. "She has shown deep commitment for our school's goals and values and thus, I am confident that her leadership will play a pivotal role in advancing the growth and development of our research portfolio. Please join me in welcoming her to this new role."
Whitcomb, a professor of epidemiology, will take on the position of Chair of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, assuming the role from Lisa Chasan-Taber. In addition to serving previously as the school's Associate Dean for Research, Whitcomb has served as President of the Society for Pediatric and Perinatal Epidemiologic Research (SPER). His research focuses on the epidemiology of adverse pregnancy outcomes and reproductive health, evaluating risk factors for miscarriage and preterm birth, menstrual cycle function, determinants of fertility and infertility, and novel epidemiologic methods. As an epidemiologist with expertise in molecular biology and inflammation as well as epidemiologic methods, he serves as a collaborator on a number of research studies.
"I want to thank Brian Whitcomb for serving as the ADR for the past two years," said Siega-Riz. "He worked tirelessly with the Research Administration Office during a time of constant transition and contributed to its current improved structure. He has also provided leadership to faculty and students in submitting their grants and finding connections with collaborators across campus. During his tenure, our student Research Day has become a huge success. Thank you, Brian, once again for all your efforts and contributions you have made to this school's research. I know he will continue to contribute in meaningful ways as the new Chair of Biostatistics and Epidemiology."