SOPH welcomes David R. Buys as chair of population health science

The John D. Bower School of Population Health is pleased to welcome David R. Buys, PhD, CPH, FACHE, FGSA as chair of the Department of Population Health Science.

“Dr. Buys brings the experience, vision and commitment to service that will help strengthen the Department of Population Health Science at an important time for our school,” said Thomas Dobbs, MD, MPH, dean of the John D. Bower School of Population Health. “We are excited to welcome him to this leadership role as SOPH continues to grow its academic programs, research portfolio and community partnerships.”

In this role, Dr. Buys will help lead the department’s work in education, research, service and community engagement. His appointment comes at an important time for SOPH as the school continues to grow its academic programs, strengthen partnerships and prepare for its 10-year milestone.

The Department of Population Health Science plays a central role in the school’s mission, with programs that prepare students to understand health at the population level and address the systems, policies and conditions that shape health outcomes. Under Dr. Buys’ leadership, the department will continue advancing work that connects research, practice and community needs.

“I am honored to join SOPH and to work with faculty, staff and students who are committed to improving health through education, research and service,” Buys said. “Population health science has an important role to play in helping public health and healthcare professionals understand and address the factors that shape health at the individual, community, state, national and global levels, and I look forward to supporting that work being led right here in Mississippi.”

SOPH looks forward to Dr. Buys’ leadership and the continued growth of the department as faculty, staff and students work together to improve health in Mississippi and beyond.