Alison L Miller

Dr. Alison L Miller is a Professor in the Department of Health Behavior & Health Equity at the University of Michigan School of Public Health. A developmental psychologist by training, her research examines how child factors, social relationships, and contextual processes influence healthy development, particularly for children in poverty or experiencing early life stress (Adverse Childhood Experiences). She focuses on translating developmental science into public health approaches to reduce health inequities through interventions targeting self-regulation, relational health, and contextual influences.

• Education: PhD & MA in Developmental Psychology (University of Michigan), BA in Psychology (Wesleyan University), NIMH T-32 Postdoctoral Fellowship (Brown University)

Her work spans child mental health, obesity prevention, lead exposure mitigation, and diabetes management. Key projects include Trauma-Informed Programs and Practices for Schools (TIPPS), Adolescent Interventions to Manage Self-Regulation in Type 1 Diabetes (AIMS-T1D), and community-based studies on parenting and lead exposure prevention. Current research explores virtual exercise programs, emotion regulation in preschoolers, and maternal dietary impacts on infant growth.

Recent publications show a focus on infant feeding behaviors, physical activity promotion, maternal mental health pathways, and stress physiology in low-income populations. Her work frequently involves interdisciplinary collaborations and community partnerships across healthcare, education, and grassroots organizations.

• Scientific Awards: NIMH T-32 Postdoctoral Fellowship

Dr. Miller leads the Child Health and Development Lab, emphasizing systems-focused approaches to address social determinants of health. Her studies often leverage mixed-methods designs and inform policy/practice through translational frameworks that connect clinic and community systems.