From Iowa to Disneyland: How CPH alumna Emma Smaellie keeps the magic safe

UI College of Public Health alumna Emma Smaellie (23MS, OEH Industrial Hygiene) plays a behind‑the‑scenes role in one of the most iconic destinations in the world: the Disneyland Resort. As a safety professional supporting thousands of cast members across parks, hotels, entertainment spaces, and specialized crafts, Emma uses her industrial hygiene training to ensure the magic happens safely every day. She shares how she found her path, what her work looks like, and why creating a safer workplace is her favorite part of the job. Published March 2, 2026

GPCAH accepting applications for pilot projects

The Great Plains Center for Agricultural Health is seeking applicants for pilot projects to promote innovative outreach and research efforts to prevent agricultural injury and illness. The pilot program supports both community-based organizations and academic researchers, especially new investigators and trainees. Proposals addressing mental health, chemical safety, equipment/tool safety, and prevention of slips, trips, and falls are especially encouraged in the 2026-27 application cycle. Published March 2, 2026

Parker Nelson puts ergonomics to work for real‑world impact

Parker Nelson is a graduate student in occupational and environmental health, specializing in ergonomics. In this Q&A, he discusses his research journey and his work developing ergonomic strategies aimed at reducing pain and improving function for heavy machinery operators. Published February 23, 2026

EHSRC and ISRP to host virtual office hours for community engagement and research

Interested in learning more about community engagement and research? The UI's Environmental Health Sciences Research Center (EHSRC) and Iowa Superfund Research Program (ISRP) are co-hosting an upcoming series of virtual office hours open to any UI student, faculty, or staff member. Published February 11, 2026

Kasia Wiebel: Championing worker well-being and safer workplaces

Kasia Wiebel is a 4th-year public health student with an interest in occupational and environmental health and injury prevention. She recently took time to answer some questions about her academic path and how her internship and study abroad experiences helped shape her future plans. Published February 3, 2026

IPRC seeks pilot grant proposals addressing injuries, violence

The University of Iowa Injury Prevention Research Center (IPRC) is seeking pilot research proposals that address injuries and violence. Pilot project grant awards will generally range from $20,000-$22,500, with up to four proposals funded. The application deadline is March 20, 2026. Published January 27, 2026

New research examines effective firearm safety messaging

A new study from University of Iowa researchers offers fresh insight into how rural families believe firearm safety efforts can be made more effective. Published January 21, 2026

CPH students highlighted in 2026 Dare to Discover campaign

Four CPH students are featured in the UI's 2026 Dare to Discover banner campaign, highlighting outstanding student researchers. Read more about how their work is making an impact. Published January 20, 2026

Nominations for 2026 Outstanding Alumni Awards due March 2

The UI College of Public Health is pleased to announce that it is accepting nominations for its 2026 Outstanding Alumni Awards. This award program recognizes outstanding alumni in two categories: first, recent graduates who have completed College of Public Health programs within the past ten years and, second, other alumni for accomplishments throughout their careers. Published January 14, 2026

Heartland Center request for pilot project proposals

The Heartland Center for Occupational Health and Safety announces the availability of funds to support pilot projects. Research projects must be related to one of the National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) sector areas and pertain to an occupational health or safety issue. Applications will be accepted through March 3, 2026. Published December 22, 2025