Javier Lopez-Rios

Javier Lopez-Rios is an Assistant Teaching Professor in the Department of Community Health & Prevention at Drexel University's Dornsife School of Public Health. He holds a PhD from CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy (2021), an MPH from Hunter College (2016), and a BA in Psychology from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez (2012). His research focuses on HIV/AIDS prevention among sexual and racial/ethnic minority populations, emphasizing qualitative methodologies and community engagement. Prior roles include Project Manager at the HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies (New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia University) and Adjunct Lecturer at York College of CUNY.

Research interests include improving HIV testing access, addressing health disparities through inclusive community coalitions, and leveraging technology (e.g., smartphone apps) for STI/HIV self-testing. His work emphasizes marginalized populations such as transgender sex workers, LGBTQ+ communities, and disaster-affected populations in Puerto Rico.

Key publications analyze HIV testing modalities, PrEP adherence barriers, and disaster resilience in public health interventions. Lopez-Rios’ interdisciplinary approach bridges clinical research, public policy, and community practice to advance equitable healthcare access.