Yong Yang

Yong Yang, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Memphis’s School of Public Health. His research focuses on the intersection of built/social environments and health behaviors, particularly among older adults. He employs agent-based modeling and GIS to study public health interventions, urban planning, and policy impacts.

Education:

• PhD in Geography, University of Southampton, UK (2007)
• MS in Geographical Information Science, Peking University, China (2000)
• BS in Physical Geography, Peking University, China (1997)

Research Interests:

Dr. Yang’s work explores urban environments and health, active travel, aging-related mental health, childhood obesity, and applications of computational models in public health. His studies often integrate spatial analysis and systems science to address complex health behaviors and policy implications.

Recent Article Trends:

Recent work examines transportation policies for older adults, social isolation’s role in dementia, and reactions to e-cigarette bans. His agent-based modeling research simulates public transit impacts, vaccination behaviors, and urban design effects on health outcomes.

Grants & Advising:

While specific grants and advisees aren’t listed, his research consistently involves collaborative interdisciplinary projects addressing aging populations, tobacco control, and environmental health equity.