Timothy Erickson

Timothy Erickson, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Epidemiology in the Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics at the Texas A&M School of Public Health. His research focuses on infectious and neuroinflammatory diseases with translational applications to improve population health through short-term knowledge development.

Dr. Erickson's educational background includes:

• Bachelor of Science (BS) in Bioenvironmental Sciences/Plant Pathology and Microbiology and Soil and Crop Sciences, Texas A&M University, 2013
• Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH) in Epidemiology, Texas A&M University, 2015
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Epidemiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 2019
• Master of Science (MS) in Microbiology and Cell Science, University of Florida, 2023

His primary research spans Infectious Diseases and Neuroinflammatory Diseases, with specialized focus on parasitic/rickettsial diseases, neuroinvasive conditions, biomarker identification, and infectious disease ecology. He integrates machine learning and clinical tool development to address public health challenges, emphasizing practical applications in epidemiologic methods and surveillance systems.

Recent publications demonstrate strong emphasis on pediatric neuroinflammatory conditions (encephalitis, MOGAD), zoonotic infections (toxocariasis, dengue), and global health applications. His work leverages machine learning for diagnostic etiology identification and examines infectious triggers in autoimmune disorders, with significant contributions to acute febrile illness surveillance during pandemics and natural disasters.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Popular Vote Award at Southern Conference of Graduate Schools
• First Place and Popular Vote at UTHealth Houston Three Minute Thesis Competition
• Leadership certification from Texas A&M University Corps of Cadets

Dr. Erickson actively mentors students and provides international research support to clinicians and scientists. His translational approach drives collaborations with CDC, VA hospitals, Texas DSHS, and global institutions for pandemic response and health system improvements.

Current research involves interdisciplinary teams at Oak Ridge Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, and Houston Health Department focusing on neuroinflammatory disease mechanisms and real-time surveillance systems for emerging infectious threats.