Don Operario

Don Operario is an Adjunct Professor of Behavioral and Social Sciences in the School of Public Health at Brown University. He holds affiliations with the International Health Institute (IHI), Center for AIDS Research (CFAR), Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies (CAAS), and Population Studies Training Center (PSTC). His work focuses on reducing health inequities through social-behavioral research in HIV prevention, mental health disparities, and minority health. Dr. Operario has a PhD in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst (1998).

• Education:
• PhD in Psychology (1998), University of Massachusetts, Amherst
• Research Interests:
• Social determinants of HIV/AIDS
• Psychosocial interventions for marginalized populations
• Health disparities in LGBTQ+ communities
• Racial/ethnic minority health
• Global health interventions

His research integrates mixed methods to address stigma, discrimination, and structural barriers impacting health outcomes. Key areas include transgender health, substance use correlates, and community-based interventions. Dr. Operario has been funded by NIH institutes (NIAAA, NIMH, NIAID, NICHD).

Publications: Over 130 peer-reviewed articles focus on HIV risk behaviors, stigma's impact on health, and culturally tailored interventions. Recent work addresses PrEP acceptability, transgender women's health, and global health equity.

Awards:

• 2018 APA Distinguished Leadership Award in Psychology and AIDS
• 2012 Brown University Teaching Excellence Award
• 2007 APA Early Career Award

Teaching: Courses include behavioral research methods, HIV prevention strategies, global health practicums, and LGBTQ+ public health. He advises students on topics ranging from structural interventions to qualitative research design.

Collaborations: Partnerships with global institutions (South Africa, Kenya, China) and local organizations to implement evidence-based programs. Active in translational research linking community needs to policy.