David Abraham

David Abraham, PhD, is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences at the School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). He is a nationally recognized expert in public safety readiness, resilience, and emergency preparedness, with over 20 years of executive-level experience across public health, national security, healthcare, and critical infrastructure sectors.

His research and professional focus spans:

• Public Health and Hospital Preparedness
• Emergency Management and Disaster Recovery
• National Security and Force Protection
• Occupational Health and Safety
• Crisis Risk and Business Continuity Management
• Critical Infrastructure and Campus Security
• Climate Resilience and Environmental Health

Dr. Abraham has led the design and implementation of performance-based training and exercises for the U.S. Armed Forces, healthcare systems, universities, financial services, aviation, and energy sectors. His work emphasizes enhancing professional graduate education and interdisciplinary collaboration to strengthen national and global preparedness.

Scientific Awards:

• 2019, Secretary of Defense’s 91st Joint Civilian Orientation Conference, U.S. Department of Defense

Grants and Research Leadership:

• Principal Investigator: U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grant Program, Private Sector Integration Plan for the IL-IN-WI Combined Statistical Area
• Co-Principal Investigator: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Building Resilience Against Climate Effects in Illinois
• Principal Investigator: Illinois Emergency Management Agency – Illinois Schools Security Program, School and Campus Safety

Dr. Abraham teaches a wide range of professionals including executives, government and military officials, healthcare leaders, and safety practitioners, contributing significantly to workforce development in preparedness and security disciplines.