Professor’s Research Focuses on Improving Maternal Health

Jess Holzer, Ph.D., an assistant professor of healthcare administration and policy, says her goal is to improve the health and well-being of mothers, especially new mothers and those who are expecting. She is investigating postpartum mental illness or disability directly related to pregnancy and/or childbirth.

“My greatest pride is my current project on maternal morbidities,” she said. “My colleague and I are excited to find many others interested in the topic, and we are planning future interventions in the hope of reducing maternal morbidities postpartum.”

An expert in health policy with a focus on equity, Dr. Holzer previously served as a faculty member at Hofstra University. She earned her Ph.D. in health policy and bioethics from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, her master’s degree in bioethics from Case Western Reserve University, and her bachelor’s degree in biology and philosophy from Wellesley College.

"Assuring the well-being of mothers benefits babies, families, and communities. Helping people access educational and occupational opportunities without the cost or challenges of needing a car is also crucial."Jessica Holzer, Ph.D.

She credits her personal experiences for sparking her interest in maternal health and active transportation – such as biking and walking. She says investments are needed in both areas in order to improve lives and increase equity.

“Assuring the well-being of mothers benefits babies, families, and communities,” she said. “Helping people access educational and occupational opportunities without the cost or challenges of needing a car is also crucial.”

A former postdoctoral fellow at Yale, Dr. Holzer was familiar with the New Haven area before joining the University’s faculty last fall. She has also lived in Queens and in Long Beach, New York.

An avid traveler, Dr. Holzer has been to every continent but Antarctica – a place she hopes to visit one day. She is now focused on continuing to connect with the University and the local community.

“I'm excited to be part of the School of Health Sciences,” she said. “I am looking forward to growing the programs, and to developing partnerships across the University.”