CSHP alumni, Randolph Hubach graduated with his PhD in Health Behavior in 2014. He shares with us about his experience at the CSHP, his current career, and the projects that he is most excited about:
Why did you choose to come to the Center for Sexual Health Promotion?
I was drawn to IU and to the Center for a multitude of reasons. Foremost, IU and sexuality-related research go hand-in-hand given the legacy of Alfred Kinsey, his Institute, and the multitude of sexual health researchers drawn to the campus. As a MPH student, I had been influenced by Drs. Dodge and Reece’s work related to gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with—making the Center a perfect match for my work.
Where are you now?
I am currently Associate Professor of Rural Health and Director of the Sexual Health Research Lab at Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences where my team is working to address sexual health and health disparities among both rural and urban communities. Concurrently, I am Director of the Master of Public Health Program for the OSU system.
What experiences did you value the most during your time with the CSHP?
The Center draws students, faculty, and post-doctoral fellows who naturally support each other in work and in life. These relationships have been pivotal to my success as a researcher but also have provided life-long friendships.
Why did you choose a career in sexuality research and/or education?
As a gay man, I have been particularly interested in the needs of the LGBT community related to sexual health—in relation to HIV and STI outcomes but also as to how the place we life might influence those outcomes. IU provided the perfect opportunity to interweave my sexuality-related work into larger public health models. Early in my career, I worked with community-based organizations and health departments implementing public health interventions; however, observed there were a multitude of determinants that were not accounted for. This underscored the need for a next generation of researchers who applied experience in the field.
What projects are you currently involved in or excited about?
Currently my team has been awarded funds to evaluate public health messaging, in the era of COVID-19, for populations at-risk for HIV infection. Concurrently, we are assessing new models of care utilizing mHealth and telemedicine to link gay, bisexual, and other MSM to affirming providers for the provision of sexual health care (e.g., PrEP; at-home HIV and STI screening).
What are some key pieces of advice for prospective or current CSHP students?
Enjoy the experience that comes along with being student working within the Center. Take this opportunity to network, attend conferences, on campus lectures, and be part of interdisciplinary research teams.
