Jay Maddock

Jay Maddock is a Regents Professor and Director of the Center for Health & Nature at Texas A&M University, affiliated with the School of Public Health and Department of Environmental and Occupational Health. He focuses on social ecological approaches to health promotion and the intersection of Health & Nature.

• Education:
  • PhD in Psychology, University of Rhode Island (1999)
  • MA in Psychology, University of Rhode Island (1997)
  • BA in Psychology and Sociology, Syracuse University (1995)

His research emphasizes health communications, biophilic design, and environmental determinants of health, particularly through nature exposure and walkability. Recent work explores virtual reality hospital environments, green space impacts on mental health, and social norms in physical activity.

Key trends in his publications (2023–2025) include:

• Quantifying health benefits of nature using VR and spatial analysis
• Linking walkability to cardiovascular risk reduction in urban and rural settings
• Developing predictive models for diabetes and environmental health risks
• Advancing nature prescriptions as a clinical intervention
• Evaluating community health partnerships in libraries and rural areas

Scientific Recognition:

• Fellow, American Academy of Health Behavior (FAAHB)

Leadership: He founded and directs the Center for Health & Nature, integrating environmental science with public health through interdisciplinary research and community engagement initiatives.