Overview
The Department of Global, Environmental, and Genomic Health Sciences at the USF College of Public Health is dedicated to understanding and advancing the health of populations, across the world and locally, by exploring the environmental and genetic factors that influence disease and well-being. Through innovative research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and real-world application, we strive to address complex public health challenges worldwide.
Our degree programs in the areas of infectious and communicable diseases, global health planning and practice, environmental health sciences, and genomics and computational sciences provide rigorous, science-based training that equips students with the expertise to drive meaningful change in interdisciplinary research and practice that improves public health for all.
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Disease Prevention
We helped reduce mosquito-borne diseases in Florida and globally through innovative tracking and prevention methods.
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Global Impact on Cancer
Our faculty's research led to cervical cancer screening programs implemented worldwide.
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Precision Medicine
We use genomics and bioinformatics to advance precision health in pregnancy, metabolism, and mental health.
Why Choose COPH Global, Environmental, and Genomic Health Sciences?
- Learn from Award-Winning Faculty: Our students learn from renowned faculty recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to public health, environmental science, and genomics.
- Engage in Hands-On Research & Global Health Initiatives: Students conduct research in cutting-edge labs alongside highly cited scholars publishing in top journals such as Science, Nature Communications, and Cell, while also tackling real-world challenges like disease detection, evolution, vector biology, and the spread of diseases on a global scale.
- Make an Impact Through Real-World Experience: From fieldwork to partnerships with international organizations, students apply their knowledge to pressing public health issues, gaining practical experience that prepares them for careers in research, policy, and public health practice.
- Join a Thriving Community: The department-affiliated Global Health Student Association (GHSA) connects students with faculty and peers to explore international health challenges, engage in professional development, and raise awareness of global health issues both in the U.S. and abroad.
“This department is a perfect match for anyone looking to create a positive impact in developing countries. The Global Communicable Disease program opened so many doors for my career. Coming from a clinical background, gaining a public health perspective completed shifted my professional path. This department is so special because it brings together policy with real-life, day-to-day work in the field." - Audry Belén Valdez, MD, MPH Student
COPH team wins large scientific challenge on human genome research
Pathogenicity prediction isn’t a subject we discuss over our morning coffee, but it could be a topic of greater interest as it affects more and more lives, according to a researcher at USF’s Genomics Program at the College of Public Health (COPH).
COPH team wins large scientific challenge on human genome research
Elizabeth Dunn: Celebrating leadership, service and impact
The COPH's Elizabeth Dunn shared the outstanding recognitions received at the Hillsborough County Office of Emergency Management Volunteer Recognition Awards, 2025 Celebration of Leadership Awards, the Salvation Army Community Partners Awards and the USF Health Student Awards—each highlighting the transformational work happening across students and community partners.
Elizabeth Dunn: Celebrating leadership, service and impact
Classroom to career: Launching public health futures at COPH
From her roots on a Florida farm to the front lines of global disease elimination at USF’s College of Public Health, Dr. Kristi Miley has carved a path in public health. With three USF degrees — a PhD in global communicable diseases, an MSPH in global communicable diseases and a BS in biomedical sciences— Miley has transformed her lifelong connection to animals and the natural world into a career devoted to infectious disease research, medical entomology and public health education.