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Guided by questions of why health disparities exist and how to address them, Andrés Alvarado Avila builds his career in public health research grounded in kindness and empathy as a project manager at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. He leads several million-dollar NIH-funded studies that develop innovative, tech-based interventions for challenges such as HIV prevention and mental health, while also consulting on clinical trials nationwide to promote inclusive recruitment and retention. An immigrant from Michoacán, Mexico, Alvarado Avila spent most of his life in the United States but remains deeply connected to his roots—especially through frequent visits and a love of Mexican food.
What is your greatest career accomplishment to date?
Winning a Meritorious Abstract Award from the Society of Behavioral Medicine for my research on preventing fraudulent participation in online health studies. This was a full circle moment for me because there was a time when I didn’t feel confident enough to even apply to present at conferences. Receiving that award reminded me that people like me belong in these spaces and we can thrive if we let us and if we find a community that supports us.
What is your greatest personal accomplishment to date?
I relearned how to walk again at twenty-five. After a serious car accident, I was told I might never run again and came close to losing my left leg. With the support of my doctors, physical therapist, family, and friends, I went through months of physical therapy and was eventually able to walk again. It wasn’t easy, nerve damage and being immobile for over six months made every step a challenge. But that journey taught me how resilient I can be.
What do you do today to impact your community?
Health research. I didn’t think I’d enjoy it at first. I only joined a lab in college to strengthen my application for clinical psychology programs. But I quickly discovered how powerful research can be when it’s grounded in purpose. It gave me a framework to explore questions that deeply matter to me and to communities I care about, like Latino LGBTQ+ immigrants. Today, I see research as one of the most meaningful ways I can give back and help drive change.
In our lab, we work to center community voices, not just by inviting people to participate in studies, but by involving them as stakeholders who help shape our interventions and ensure they reach those who need them most. I also founded an affinity group to foster belonging and inclusivity for Latinos in academia, bringing together staff, students, and faculty to build community and support one another.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I recently completed my Master of Public Health (MPH) and want to continue my education. I’m considering a Doctorate in Public Health so I can keep doing the work I love and deepen my impact. I’m also thinking about moving back to Mexico, where I was born, to contribute to public health efforts in my home country.
What is the biggest issue that you want to help solve, and why?
Latinos in the US are disproportionately affected by chronic conditions like diabetes and mental health issues that can greatly impact quality of life. At the same time, many don’t have access to the care they need because the system isn’t built to support the most marginalized. I want to use research to document these inequities and develop solutions that actually work for my community. This work is personal for me because it affects the people I love.
What is a moment when you realized the impact of your work?
At my graduation, I saw how proud my family was of me because of the work that I do. In many Latino families, saying “I’m proud of you” out loud doesn’t always come naturally, but that day, I heard it repeatedly. To give you an idea of how proud my family was they made posters with my face on it and cheered me on during the ceremony (and Steve Carell was the commencement speaker, which made it even more memorable and a tiny bit embarrassing). It was one of those moments where I truly felt the impact of what I do and how far I’ve come.
What advice would 10-year-old you be shocked to hear you followed?
Take up space. I was a shy and quiet kid who avoided attention. In my first job, I was surrounded by people with impressive degrees and titles, and I felt intimidated. But over time, I realized that I have a unique voice and perspective, and that I deserve to be in those rooms where important decisions are made. Now I speak up because I know representation matters, and we as Latinos belong.
What’s a cultural tradition that always brings you joy?
Día de los Muertos. It’s such a beautiful reminder of the richness of Mexican culture, the importance of honoring our ancestors, and the idea that life should be celebrated. It brings me so much joy, connection, and pride.
What song do you listen to that motivates you?
Anything by Bad Bunny. During my MPH program, “Booker T” was my go-to hype song before exams. His music speaks to my soul.
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Connect with Andrés Alvarado Avila on LinkedIn.
