Generative artificial intelligence is changing the way many professions approach and implement their work. Public health is no exception.

On September 5, 2025, the Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine held a day-long research symposium on Demystifying AI in Public Health. The event, part of Dean Thomas LaVeist’s Strategic Initiative on Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, showcased current research in this area, highlighting how machine learning, natural language processing, and predictive analytics can address critical public health challenges. In total, there were 9 invited talks, 3 panel sessions, over 100 attendees on-site, 35+ virtual attendees, and 18 student poster contest entrants. Panel and audience discussions examined the practical and ethical implications of deploying these tools.

The event was organized by the Dean’s office, Sam Kakraba (BIOS), and Paul Hutchinson (IHSD), the lead for the AI and Data Science Strategic Initiative. By day’s end, the event had catalyzed new connections and a shared commitment to responsible, evidence-driven innovation; the School will carry this momentum forward through monthly seminars and cross-disciplinary collaborations throughout the year.