Keith M. Bellizzi

Dr. Keith M. Bellizzi is a Professor of Gerontology in the Department of Human Development and Family Sciences at the University of Connecticut. Prior to his academic role, he served as a Program Officer and Health Scientist at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), completing the Cancer Prevention Fellowship Program. His research focuses on resilience mechanisms, cancer survivorship, social determinants of health, and chronic illness adaptation in aging populations.

Education:

• Ph.D., Human Development and Family Studies, University of Connecticut
• M.P.H., Epidemiology, George Washington University
• M.A., Psychology, Central Connecticut State University
• B.S., Business, Quinnipiac University

Research Interests:

• Resilience trajectories in cancer patients
• Social determinants of accelerated aging in oncology
• Family adjustment to chronic illness
• Health behaviors and quality of life in aging populations

His work emphasizes translational research bridging behavioral science and clinical oncology, with a focus on improving survivorship outcomes and health equity.

Awards & Roles:

• Editor, Cancer and Aging Handbook
• Senior Associate Editor, Translational Behavioral Medicine
• Former Cancer Prevention Fellowship Program Graduate (NCI)

Grants & Advising:

• NIH-funded research on cancer survivorship and aging
• Accepting graduate students for 2025

Labs & Collaborations: Dr. Bellizzi collaborates with interdisciplinary teams at UConn and the NCI, focusing on translational research and cancer aging initiatives.