This profile is part of a series to highlight the researchers who will be honored at a ceremony for UNMC’s 2019 Scientist Laureate, Research Leadership, Distinguished Scientist and New Investigator Award recipients.
- Name: Jennie Hill, Ph.D.
- Title: Associate professor, UNMC Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health
- Joined UNMC: 2016
- Hometown: Brule, Nebraska
The New Investigator Award
New Investigator Awards go to outstanding UNMC scientists who in the past two years have secured their first funding from the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Defense or other national sources.
New Investigators also had to demonstrate scholarly activity such as publishing their research and/or presenting their findings at national conventions.
Research focus:
- Childhood obesity treatment and prevention
- Physical activity
- Nutrition
The goal of my research is: To reduce the prevalence of childhood obesity in rural and underserved populations by increasing the reach of effective pediatric weight management interventions.
My research will make a difference because: Rural and underserved families face a myriad of challenges to maintain a healthy weight, including access to fresh, healthy food and physical activity opportunities. For families of overweight or obese children, treatment programs are often located in urban centers several hours from home. My research focuses on training local providers and community members to develop the capacity to address obesity where they live.
The best advice I’ve ever been given is
Show up and do your work.
Three things you may not know about me are:
- I love to be active and outdoors. Biking, running, hiking and skiing are some of my favorites.
- I have an identical twin sister.
- I love to travel and will wander whenever I have the chance.
Congratulations, Dr. Hill!
So grateful for you and your work! I;;m proud to be your colleague