Charles Poole

Charles Poole, ScD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Epidemiology at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health. He specializes in epidemiologic methods, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis. His work emphasizes critical evaluation of research design and statistical interpretation in public health contexts.

Education:

• ScD in Epidemiology, Harvard University (1989)
• MPH in Health Administration, UNC Chapel Hill (1976)
• BA in Natural Sciences, Johns Hopkins University (1973)

Research focuses on epidemiologic concepts, risk assessment frameworks, and improving methodological rigor in public health studies. He has contributed to debates on statistical inference, including critiques of p-value overreliance and advocacy for nuanced evidence interpretation.

Teaching includes courses on epidemiologic logic (EPID 705), quantitative methods (EPID 715), meta-analysis (EPID 731), and advanced epidemiologic methods readings (EPID 719). These courses emphasize critical thinking about study design and data interpretation.

Recipient of the 2012 Inaugural Innovation in Teaching Award, recognizing his pedagogical approaches in epidemiology education. He currently chairs the Curriculum Subcommittee within the Gillings School.