Bria-Necole Diggs, B.S.P.H. ’21, M.S.P.H. ’23, embodies the spirit of health research, embracing it as a powerful tool for transforming lives and addressing health disparities. Her path in public health began at the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies (SONHS), where she majored in Public Health and minored in Classics and Health Sector Management. In 2021, she was selected to participate in the Minority Health and Health Disparities Research Training Program (MHRT) under the mentorship of Dr. Denise C. Vidot, Assistant Professor and Director of the Global Cannabis and Psychedelics Research Collaboratory, and Dr. Marvin Reid, professor at the University of the West Indies, Jamaica.
“The MHRT program was a pivotal step in my journey, shaping my passion for health equity and research,” said Diggs. Throughout her educational journey, Diggs has actively embraced the opportunities that health research provides. Following her undergraduate studies, she pursued a Master of Science in Public Health at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, where she is now pursuing a Ph.D. in epidemiology.
Diggs has dedicated the past few years to conducting impactful research at Dr. Vidot’s Global Cannabis and Psychedelics Research Collaboratory, engaging in various studies that explore critical health topics, including COVID-19, cancer, and behavioral and mental health in relation to use cannabis and psychedelic substances. In her role as the Study Coordinator for the Young Adult COVID-19 Transmission and Substance Use Study, and as a Graduate Research Assistant for the Herbal Heart Study, she is passionately contributing to important advancements in cannabis and cardiovascular health.
Her journey in health research has yielded remarkable results in a short span of time. Since participating in the MHRT program, Diggs has co-authored over 10 publications and presented her findings at more than 53 poster and oral presentations conferences.
Her personal connection to health issues, particularly her familial background with sickle cell disease, fuels her drive to make a meaningful impact through research. She is committed to improving public health outcomes, advocating for individuals living with chronic and infectious diseases, and promoting necessary policy changes.
In her pursuit of knowledge and better health for all, Bria-Necole Diggs exemplifies the transformative potential of embracing a career in health research. Her inspiring journey serves as a testament to the importance of innovation, dedication, and compassion in the ongoing fight for health equity and improved health care solutions for diverse communities. “Health research is more than just data and discoveries—it’s about amplifying voices, addressing disparities, and creating meaningful change,” she said. “My goal is to ensure that every study I contribute to brings us one step closer to a healthier, more equitable future.”
