Joel Kaufman

Joel Kaufman is Professor of Epidemiology, Medicine, and Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences at the University of Washington, where he currently serves as Interim Dean of the School of Public Health. He holds an MD and BA from the University of Michigan (six-year combined program) and an MPH from the University of Washington. His career includes seven years with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries developing the SHARP research program before joining UW full-time in 1997.

Kaufman's research examines environmental and social determinants of cardiovascular disease, with emphasis on air pollution impacts. He leads the landmark MESA Air Study and advocates for science-based policy reforms at the intersection of public health and social justice. His work challenges individual-centric views of heart disease, highlighting systemic factors like pollution and socioeconomic disparities.

Awards:

• Outstanding Faculty Mentor, SPH Student Association (2015)

He maintains an active clinical practice in general internal medicine at UW Medical Center, mentors students/post-docs, and contributes to the UW Population Health Initiative. Kaufman also participates in cross-disciplinary collaborations funded by major grants, including support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.