David W. Seal

David W. Seal is a Professor in the Department of Social, Behavioral, and Population Sciences at the School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University. His research focuses on HIV/STI prevention, sexology, and qualitative methods within multicultural, community-based frameworks.

• PhD in Social Psychology, University of New Mexico
• MA, California State University, Fullerton
• BA, University of Redlands
• Post-Doctoral Fellowship, HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, Columbia University

Dr. Seal's research centers on social and behavioral aspects of public health, with a strong emphasis on HIV prevention among high-risk populations such as people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men, incarcerated individuals, and at-risk heterosexuals. His work integrates community-based participatory research and explores emotional and sexual intimacy across diverse couples. Recent efforts include violence prevention and opioid harm reduction.

His recent publications (2020–2025) reflect a consistent focus on substance use, infectious disease, prison health, and LGBTQ+ populations. Themes include stigma, identity, health equity, and structural barriers in public health. Methodologically, his work is grounded in qualitative and mixed-methods approaches.

• Fellow, American Academy of Health Behavior
• Past-President, American Academy of Health Behavior
• Chair, Diversity and Equity Council, AAHB

Dr. Seal has advised numerous funded research projects and continues to contribute to national and global public health discourse. He is actively involved in mentoring and public health practice initiatives. His work spans collaborations in Brazil, Syria, and the U.S., reflecting a global perspective. He leads and contributes to research centers focused on HIV, substance use, and health equity.