Josh Garn, Ph.D.

Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Associate Professor, Epidemiology
Garn, Joshua

Summary

Joshua Garn is the associate dean of academic affairs and an associate professor of epidemiology at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Public Health. In his administrative role, he works with students and faculty to strengthen academic programs and help position the School of Public Health for long-term success.

Garn’s research focuses on understanding and quantifying environmental exposures, particularly water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), and their impact on infectious disease and educational outcomes. His work includes studying diarrhea, the gut microbiome, soil-transmitted helminths, trachoma, stunting, school absence, enrollment and cognitive development. He has also conducted research on breastfeeding and nutritional exposures in relation to gastrointestinal and anthropometric outcomes.

Garn has a growing interest in identifying proteomic and genetic markers of post-infection irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with the goal of improving understanding of its mechanisms, diagnosis and treatment. His methodological expertise includes the design, implementation and analysis of randomized trials, observational studies and systematic reviews. He is currently involved in experimental and epidemiologic research in Africa and South Asia.

Selected publications