Liz Sahagun, PhD
Scientist turned advocate.
I’m a neuroscientist and NIH Clinical & Translational Science Fellow at UC Davis Health.
My research explores how risk factors during pregnancy impact fetal brain development. I’m particularly interested in risk factors such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and neurological and mental health disorders. The goal of my work is to inform new ways to improve the physical and mental health of working class people.
I also have a background in psychology and outdoor advocacy, and expertise in scientific research, public health, and social innovation.
When I’m not in lab, I’m training for mountain objectives, spending time with family in Mexico, or taking on a new project to make the world a better place for more people.
Issues I care about.
Health Disparities
Systemic disparities in public health are driven by poor air and water quality, inaccessibility of healthy foods, and chronic psychological stress. These issues increase rates of asthma, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and neurological and mental health disorders in marginalized and working class people. Many of these poor health outcomes are driven by inflammation. My current work explores the biological mechanisms that are disrupted by inflammation, and how poor health outcomes can be passed onto the next generation during pregnancy.
Social Innovation
Social innovation is the process of empowering diverse perspectives and harnessing the power of community to address the biggest problems of our time. This forward-thinking approach fosters creativity and empowers unique individuals to grow to their fullest potential. We can change the world together by creating bigger tables and inviting more people to take a seat.
Outdoor Recreation
I know first-hand the benefits fresh air and movement can have on physical and mental health. I am passionate about removing access barriers so more people can experience the power of connecting with nature.
