Arisha Khan, MSPH ’23

MSPH Program
Global Disease Epidemiology and Control

Advisers
Diwakar Mohan and Kawsar Talaat

Current Employers
University of Iceland and Fulbright Iceland

Job Title
Fulbright Research Grantee

Job Description
I currently work on two main projects. One is designed to analyze the respiratory impact from environmental disasters on disadvantaged populations. The second aims to understand how mildly cold temperatures can increase immune and neurological resilience during periods of reduced oxygen levels in the brain, such as during stroke.

Practicum
I was a clinical research coordinator at the Center for Immunization Research helping conduct vaccine trials in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which informed my practicum. I dissected the impact of COVID-19 on research institutions and analyzed the benefits and pitfalls of the consequent guidelines that were designed to sustain scientific progress.

Advice to students
Take advantage of the research and networking opportunities offered at Johns Hopkins. They will help you develop practical skills that can be applied in real-time, allowing you to see public health practice in action. The Bloomberg School has expansive network opportunities that can serve as a powerful launching pad for the health career you envision.

My professors and peers were all supportive and inspiring. Everyone in the program was passionate about addressing health inequities and driven to find solutions to these global problems. Being part of the International Health cohort strengthened my own commitment in advancing health equity. This support system has been instrumental in helping me find opportunities aligned with these interests, both as a student and an alum.