My research focuses on infectious diseases in both global and domestic contexts, and considerations of equity are at the center of the questions that our lab group chooses to focus on. Much of our work takes place in lower-income countries, where problems associated with enteric disease transmission are the most salient. As a global health research group, we try our best to be cognizant of the colonialist roots of global health, to address these persistent issues by engaging with our in-country research partners in meaningful ways and to invest in long-term relationships in the communities with which we work.
In my mentoring and in my teaching, I strive to create an environment that celebrates, respects and deliberately seeks out diverse voices and perspectives. My research group regularly engages in discussions about best practices in how we carry out our research and mentoring through quarterly lab meetings focused on equity, diversity and inclusion, anti-racism and decolonizing global health topics, as well as ongoing discussion and information-sharing through our #AcademicDiversity Slack channel. We published a Levy Lab Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion statement that we update annually. I also serve as the Chair of the DEOHS Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee and represent the department on the UW School of Public Health Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee.
