Stephanie Nairn

Dr. Stephanie Nairn is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Sociology at the University of Central Florida, part of the College of Sciences. She holds a doctoral degree from McGill University. Her research focuses on medical sociology, science and technology studies, and consumption/food studies. Notable projects include an ethnographic exploration of food allergy treatments in North America and a pan-Canadian study on opioid interventions for youth. Current work examines 'ontologically ambiguous food drugs' and pharmaceutical food development.

Her research integrates qualitative and ethnographic methods, addressing topics like substance use interventions, opioid crisis responses, and biomedical practices. She has published in journals such as Sociology of Health and Illness and Canadian Journal of Addiction. Her work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, engaging experts in clinical psychology, psychiatry, sociology, and anthropology.

Teaching interests include medical sociology and sociology of science, alongside teaching the dance modality GROOVE in Orlando communities. Office hours are Tuesdays 3:00-4:30pm.

Key research contributions include:

• First North American ethnography on food allergy treatments
• Leadership in a national opioid intervention study
• Analysis of youth substance use and policy implications
• Exploration of religion’s role in health outcomes among aging populations

Her scholarship bridges sociological theory with applied health research, emphasizing ethical considerations and patient expertise in medical practices.