Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine has announced a significant leadership transition in its Department of Preventive Medicine. Effective September 1st, Mercedes Carnethon, PhD, a distinguished figure in preventive medicine and epidemiology, will assume the role of chair. This appointment marks a new chapter for the department, building upon decades of impactful work in population health.
Carnethon, previously the Mary Harris Thompson Professor of Preventive Medicine and vice chair, brings two decades of dedicated service within the department to her new leadership position. Her deep-rooted connection to Northwestern and her extensive expertise position her as an ideal leader to propel the department forward. “I am extremely pleased and grateful to be entrusted with leading the Department of Preventive Medicine—a place that has been my academic and professional home for two decades,” Carnethon stated, highlighting her commitment and enthusiasm.
Carnethon’s research is internationally recognized for its profound insights into the epidemiology of cardiovascular and chronic diseases. Her work delves into the complex interplay of behavioral, social, and biological factors that contribute to leading causes of mortality worldwide. A key aspect of her research involves examining the disproportionate burden of these conditions across diverse population subgroups, including those defined by race, ethnicity, geography, sexual orientation, gender identity, and socioeconomic status. This focus underscores her commitment to health equity and addressing disparities in healthcare outcomes.
Her dedication extends beyond research to mentoring and faculty development within Feinberg and the broader Northwestern community. Externally, Carnethon holds significant leadership roles, serving as Board Chair for the Chicago Metropolitan Board of the American Heart Association and incoming Chair of the Council on Epidemiology and Prevention. Her influence in the field is further evidenced by her service on the board of scientific counselors for the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute since 2021 and her role as associate editor for Circulation, a leading journal in cardiovascular medicine.
Donald Lloyd-Jones, MD, ScM, the outgoing chair and Eileen M. Foell Professor of Preventive Medicine, expressed immense confidence in Carnethon’s appointment. “She is the kind of person, the kind of leader, who makes her collaborators and her fellow faculty members better because of her deep knowledge about the science of population health and about recruiting cohorts of diverse individuals,” Lloyd-Jones remarked. He further emphasized her exceptional ability in nurturing young investigators, ensuring a bright future for the department under her guidance.
Eric G. Neilson, MD, vice president for medical affairs and Lewis Landsberg Dean, echoed this sentiment, stating, “There is no one better suited to lead the Department of Preventive Medicine than Mercedes.” He lauded her as “a remarkable scientist, exceptionally accomplished in epidemiology and cardiovascular disease research, and a proven leader, respected mentor, and role model.” Dean Neilson’s endorsement underscores the high regard in which Carnethon is held within the institution and the broader medical community.
Carnethon’s extensive publication record, boasting over 395 peer-reviewed scientific articles in prestigious journals such as Circulation, JAMA, and Lancet Public Health, further solidifies her position as a leading expert in her field. Her impactful research, supported by numerous NIH grants, frequently garners attention from national and international media outlets, amplifying the reach of her findings and their implications for public health. As a fellow of the Institute of Medicine of Chicago and the American Heart Association, her accolades reflect a career marked by significant contributions to preventive medicine.
With Mercedes Carnethon at the helm, the Department of Preventive Medicine at Northwestern is poised to continue its trajectory of excellence in research, education, and public health impact. Her leadership promises to foster continued innovation and address the evolving challenges in population health for years to come, strengthening Northwestern’s position as a leader in medical research and education.
