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Gabriela Oates
Assistant Professor, Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine at University of Alabama at Birmingham
Professional Background
Gabriela Oates is an esteemed researcher and educator whose inquiry focuses on the intricate relationships between social determinants of health and chronic diseases, particularly chronic respiratory conditions. Her work is pivotal in understanding how various social factors, including self-management behaviors and treatment adherence, can significantly influence health outcomes. Gabriela’s comprehensive approach encompasses leadership roles in multiple NIH-funded research initiatives and her commitment to uncovering health disparities has positioned her as a leading figure in the field of public health.
As the Director of Research at the NIH-funded UAB Minority Health and Health Disparities Research Center for over ten years, she has not only led her team to explore innovative solutions but also successfully directed pilot research programs under three transdisciplinary collaborative centers. These centers focus on fundamental issues surrounding health disparities and aim to improve health outcomes among marginalized communities.
Throughout her career, Gabriela has contributed her expertise as a principal investigator for eight funded research projects and co-investigator on eight additional studies. Her efforts to present research findings have allowed her to share insights on a national and international platform, further enhancing her reputation as a prominent scholar in her field.
Education and Achievements
Gabriela Oates' academic journey reflects her dedication to the fields of linguistics, sociology, and public health. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Language and Literature and then pursued a Master's degree in Linguistics at Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski. Further concentrating her academic efforts in the realm of health and social conditions, she completed her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Medical Sociology at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. This unique blend of linguistic and sociological expertise informs her research on health disparities, allowing her to examine the topic through multiple lenses, ensuring a more thorough understanding of the social sciences in healthcare.
In addition to her academic achievements, Gabriela has authored over 20 peer-reviewed papers and produced more than 30 publications in esteemed journals, showcasing her prowess in scientific writing and commitment to disseminating research findings that inform public health policies and practices. Her ability to translate complex data into accessible formats has been invaluable, as evidenced by her success rate of 75% in securing funding for over 50 research proposals.
Leadership and Teaching Experience
In her diverse leadership roles, Gabriela has emphasized collaboration and innovation. She has orchestrated substantial research projects that address significant health challenges within underserved populations. Her role as an Assistant Professor in Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham allows her to mentor the next generation of scholars while simultaneously contributing to advancements in chronic disease research.
Her teaching portfolio includes courses that delve into Health Disparities, Social Statistics, and Scientific Writing, illustrating her holistic understanding of the educational needs of students in public health and medicine. Notably, she has developed a graduate-level course on Health and Livability for a joint Master's degree program in Sustainable Smart Cities. This course reflects her commitment to integrating health into urban planning, and it highlights her innovative approach to contemporary health issues.
Gabriela Oates is a remarkable leader in the field of public health research with a distinct profile characterized by her extensive management experience, commitment to teaching, and robust publication record. As a researcher who is passionate about addressing health disparities, she continues to contribute significantly to the academic community and beyond.