Postdoctoral Research Scholar
Arizona State University
I am a Nutrition and Social Work scientist studying risk and protective factors for malnutrition and associated negative health behaviors, including substance use, among Hispanic children to inform evidence-based interventions. My research is grounded on the ecological systems theory, the social determinants of health model, and cultural perspectives. My current research interests have been shaped by a gradual evolution of personal and professional experiences from diverse clinic- and community-based research projects in Mexico, Guatemala, and the U.S., where I witnessed health disparities emerge from up- and down-stream pathways. Building on my previous research, my short-term goal involves adapting and testing a parenting intervention to prevent child obesity among Hispanic families in the U.S., with the longer-term goal of scaling it up to a sustainable and cost-effective program that can be implemented broadly.