Michelle Nakphong, PhD

I am a social epidemiologist and my research focuses on how social exclusion and inclusive policies impact the health of marginalized populations. Currently, my work focuses on guaranteed income as an inclusive policy as well as immigrant policies, housing, and sexual and reproductive health care. Building on over 2 decades of community-based policy advocacy work, I strive to amplify voices from low-income and minoritized communities. My research addresses the core question: Can fostering social inclusion reduce health inequities? I build from a social exclusion framework conceived by Naila Kabeer (2000) and take a structural and policy approach to examining people's lived experiences. I use quantitative and qualitative methods to illuminate the complex mechanisms that underlie health disparities. Ultimately, I aim to influence inclusive policymaking and programs to promote health equity.