The VCU Center on Society and Health is pleased to announce the arrival of Derek Chapman, Ph.D., the Center’s new Associate Director for Research. Dr. Chapman, who joined the Center in December, brings significant expertise in conducting applied public health research for the purpose of informing programs and policy and has authored numerous scientific works on the intersection of biologic and social factors on child health and development. Prior to joining the Center, he served for nine years as the State Maternal and Child Health Epidemiologist for the Virginia Department of Health, where he examined the individual and community-level factors that contribute throughout the life course to health inequities in birth outcomes. He has also served as assistant professor since 2004 in the Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Division of Epidemiology, a position he will continue to hold.

As Associate Director for Research, Dr. Chapman will oversee the research activities and daily operations of the Center. He brings  valuable research and leadership skills and is a welcome addition to our team.