The overriding mission of the Department of Epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public Health is to evaluate and improve human health through research and education. We strive to accomplish our mission through three major approaches:

• Research
  Well-grounded multidisciplinary research toward assessing the distribution and determinants of human illness with the aim of establishing reasoned preventive measures.
• Methodology
  Continuous efforts to improve methods for epidemiological investigation, to enhance validity and efficiency, and to expand the scope of activities in which epidemiologic methods can be usefully applied.
• Education
  Preparation of future researchers and practitioners in the field of epidemiology, as well as dissemination of knowledge to health professionals and the general public. As the reach of the School of Public Health is global in scope, so too is our research program. We are committed to the enhancement of quality of health not only in our own country, but internationally.

The Department of Epidemiology has a long tradition of teaching and research in the epidemiology of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic diseases, as well as in epidemiologic methodology.

From the Desk of Hans-Olov Adami, MD, PhD

Department Chair for Epidemiology

"Honoring a long tradition, the Department of Epidemiology fosters excellence in research and teaching; students are exposed to cutting edge epidemiologic methodology, to many different areas of interest, and to a vibrant learning environment.  Integrating graduate students in the life of the department is a high priority, as well as offering a broad range of research topics with an increasing emphasis on global health".