Five exceptional faculty members at USC have been honored as University Professors and Distinguished Professors. These are among the university’s highest accolades, showcasing outstanding achievements in research and scholarship.
Andrew T. Guzman, the provost, shared in an email that “these distinctions are given to faculty members who significantly honor our university through their impactful work.” He emphasized that their research not only enlightens the USC community but also contributes positively to society.
The key difference between University Professors and Distinguished Professors lies in their focus areas. University Professors excel in interdisciplinary studies, while Distinguished Professors stand out within specific fields.
University Professors
Darius Lakdawalla
University Professor of Pharmaceutical Economics and Public Policy
Quintiles Chair in Pharmaceutical Development and Regulatory Innovation
Darius Lakdawalla is a leading expert in health economics and policy. He also serves as the chief scientific officer at the USC Schaeffer Center for Health Policy & Economics. His research emphasizes the economics of health risks, the value of medical innovations, and health insurance market dynamics. Lakdawalla’s contributions are published in top-tier journals and widely recognized in his field.
Heinz-Josef Lenz
University Professor of Medicine, Preventive Medicine, and Cancer Biology
Co-Director, USC Brown Center for Cancer Drug Development
Heinz-Josef Lenz is a global leader in gastrointestinal cancer research. His work in clinical trials has changed how colon cancer is treated worldwide. He pioneered methods to identify predictive markers that are now critical components of international cancer treatment guidelines.
Distinguished Professors
María P. Aranda
Distinguished Professor of Social Work
Executive Director, USC Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging
María Aranda focuses on social work and aging, aiming to reduce health disparities among diverse populations. Her research looks at how culture impacts health outcomes, especially for individuals with dementia and related conditions. She has secured multiple grants from prestigious organizations to advance her impactful work.
David Hirshleifer
Distinguished Professor of Finance and Business Economics
Robert G. Kirby Chair in Behavioral Finance
David Hirshleifer has transformed the field of finance through his research on investor behavior and market dynamics. He has written extensively and received numerous awards for his groundbreaking contributions, including the prestigious Smith Breeden Prize.
Chanita Hughes-Halbert
Distinguished Professor of Population and Public Health Sciences
Dr. Arthur and Priscilla Ulene Chair in Women’s Cancer
Chanita Hughes-Halbert is a pioneer in cancer prevention and minority health. Her research focuses on eliminating cancer disparities through community-based interventions. For her exemplary work, she has received several national honors and played advisory roles in significant health organizations.
These professors reflect the high standards of scholarly achievement at USC and are pivotal in their respective fields, contributing to societal advancements through their dedicated research.
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