Joshua Awua

Dr. Joshua Awua is a Research Fellow and Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Texas at Arlington's School of Social Work. He holds a PhD in Addictive Disorders and Recovery Studies from Texas Tech University (2024) and an MPhil in Clinical Health Psychology from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana (2018). His research focuses on social networks' impact on substance use, leveraging advanced statistical methods like social network analysis and structural equation modeling. He is pioneering virtual reality therapies for substance use disorders. Prior roles include Health Tutor at Kintampo’s College of Health and Wellbeing (2019–2022), Lecturer at the College for Distance and e-Learning (2019–2021), and Senior Tutor at the University of Cape Coast’s College of Distance Education (2014–2021).

His research interests span social determinants of substance use, interpersonal communication dynamics, and innovative digital interventions. Awards include the 2024 Graduate Student Travel Award (Texas Tech University) and 2023 Knowledge Exchange Grant (University of Edinburgh). Teaching expertise includes substance use disorder management and advanced statistics.

His recent work emphasizes VR-based therapies, social network influences on e-cigarette use, and alcohol-related consequences among young adults. He actively collaborates on projects addressing bullying, LGBTQ+ microaggressions, and global healthcare inequities.