Welcome back to another edition of our #MemberSpotlight series. This week, we'd love to introduce everyone to Dr. @Rodman Turpin, Research Assistant Professor, University of Maryland, College Park, School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics! This spotlight with Dr. Turpin originally appeared in the AAMC CHARGE Community in June 2020. If you'd like to be featured in a future Member Spotlight, reach out to me here via the community direct messaging feature.
Rodman Turpin, PhD, MS
Research Assistant Professor
University of Maryland, College Park, School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics
What sparked your interest in health equity or health disparities work?
I've always had a deep passion for health equity across race/ethnicity, sexuality, and socioeconomic status, especially with my early studies at Howard University. I've since been able to incorporate this passion into my work as a researcher in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, which has provided both collaborations and mentorship in health equity research.
What health-equity related project are you most proud of and/or excited about?
This is difficult to say, as there are several health equity projects I'm very excited to be a part of. My work with the University of Maryland Prevention Research Center is focused on health equity in mental health care, which I've been greatly excited to be a part of.
Do you have any health equity "heroes"? If so, who are they?
I'd have to say Typhanye Dyer, one of my primary mentors in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics. She's definitely the health equity researcher who has most directly facilitated my development as a researcher.
Imagine you're a PI on your dream research project: What's the question you're trying to answer?
I'd want to test if a novel intervention focused on the mental and sexual health care of Black sexual minority men was associated with a wide range of positive health outcomes.
What health equity or social justice issue do you think deserves more attention than it gets right now?
The intersectional impact of racism and homophobia on mental healthcare access among sexual minorities of color is quite understudied. Given the disproportionate burden of depression, anxiety, and related mental health conditions among sexual minorities of color, there is a very compelling need to better understand this.
Do you have an immediate research collaboration need?
I'm always interested in developing new research collaborations, particularly related to mental health, substance use, HIV/STIs, and related health care access and utilization. If any researchers here are interested in these topics, feel free to let me know!
If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
I'd want the superpower to heal myself and others (something similar to Elixir from the X-Men universe). I feel like you could do a lot of great things with a power like that.
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Say "hello" to Rodman here in the community! Feel free to post any questions you have for him in this thread, or direct messages via the community as also a great way to connect.
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Stephanie Weiner
Director, Digital Strategy & Engagement
Association of American Medical Colleges
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