Melinda Aldrich, MPH, PhD

Melinda C. Aldrich, MPH, PhD is a Professor in the Division of Genetic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology in the Department of Medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Dr. Aldrich conducts cutting-edge research to inform the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of lung cancer for all populations. Her work encompasses two primary areas of focus: 1) understanding genetic and non-genetic determinants of health contributing to lung cancer risk and outcomes, and 2) addressing lung cancer screening availability. As a leader in lung cancer screening research, her work has played a pivotal role in shaping key health policy guidelines for lung cancer screening issued by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). She received the Vanderbilt Chancellor’s Award for Research on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center Star Award for her high impact research contributions. In addition to her role as a Community-Academic Advisory Board member with the Vanderbilt Program for Population Health and Engagement Research.