Jesse Nodora

Dr. Jesse Nodora is an Associate Adjunct Professor in the Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences at the University of California San Diego (UCSD). He is a full member of the Moores Cancer Center (MCC) and serves on the Community Outreach and Engagement (COE) Steering Committee. He is also part of the Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences Center for Health Equity Education and Research (CHEER). His research focuses on improving health outcomes for underserved populations through community-based interventions addressing social and economic barriers, with particular emphasis on cancer care, health disparities, and patient-provider communication.

• Education:
  • Dr.P.H. in Health Promotion, University of Texas Health Science Center (1995)
  • M.P.H. in Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, UCLA (1988)
  • B.A. in Sociology, Cornell University (1986)

Dr. Nodora’s research interests include systems interventions, informed decision-making, and the social determinants of health. He leads multidisciplinary teams in grants and consortia, applying quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods approaches. His work spans cancer screening optimization, telemedicine accessibility, and bladder health equity. He has contributed to studies on colorectal cancer screening protocols, HPV vaccine perceptions, and LGBTQ+ mental health.

His publications reflect a focus on addressing health disparities through community engagement and policy-driven solutions. Current efforts include improving colorectal cancer screening rates in underserved communities and enhancing telemedicine access for contraceptive care among Spanish-speaking patients. Dr. Nodora collaborates with organizations like the Prevention of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (PLUS) Research Consortium to advance bladder health research.

• Grants & Collaborations:
  • Principal investigator in multi-site research consortia
  • Leadership in the Cancer Moonshot ACCSIS initiative
  • Partnerships with federally qualified health centers to improve cancer screening

Dr. Nodora’s work emphasizes translational research, bridging academic findings with practical interventions to reduce health inequities. His involvement in the Moores Cancer Center and CHEER underscores a commitment to integrating research, education, and clinical care for marginalized populations.