Ellen Hahn

Ellen Hahn, Ph.D., is a Professor at the University of Kentucky's College of Nursing, where she directs research at the Center for Appalachian Research in Environmental Sciences (UK-CARES) and leads the Substance Use Priority Research Area. Her academic credentials include a Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Science in Nursing from Indiana University, a Master of Arts from The Ohio State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Case Western Reserve University.

Dr. Hahn's research focuses on reducing environmental health risks, with emphasis on tobacco control, radon exposure prevention, and lung cancer mitigation. Her work integrates policy outcomes research and community-engaged approaches, particularly addressing rural Appalachian disparities. Key domains include:

• Tobacco regulatory science and cessation interventions
• Geospatial analysis of radon exposure
• Community health worker-delivered programs
• Policy impact evaluation in vulnerable populations

Her recent publications demonstrate strong emphasis on rural health innovations, including drone-based PPE delivery systems, library-led radon testing programs, and tobacco treatment adaptations for underserved communities. Research consistently intersects environmental science, behavioral interventions, and health policy.

Significant scientific honors include:

• Marcia A Dake Professorship in Nursing (2012)
• Distinguished University Scientist (2007)
• Mentor of the Year Award (2014)
• Public Health Hero recognition (2007)
• John D. Slade Memorial Advocacy Award (2004)

Dr. Hahn leads major NIH-funded initiatives like UK ASCEND (2024-2029), a $multi-million project eliminating health disparities through community-engaged research, and co-directs the Appalachian Tobacco Regulatory Science Team (AppalTRuST). She mentors early-career scientists and contributes to national health guidelines through translational research.

As founding director of UK-CARES, she oversees interdisciplinary teams addressing environmental carcinogens through community partnerships, geospatial risk modeling, and policy advocacy. Her Tobacco-Free Ambassador program empowers youth advocates in Appalachia, demonstrating sustained commitment to capacity building.