Trailblazing Research by Public Health Professor Shines Light on Epidemiology, Nutrition, and Cancer Breakthroughs

Students looking for guidance in public health often turn to Archana McEligot, a professor at Cal State Fullerton. Since joining the university in 2006, she has mentored nearly 40 graduate students and 50 undergrads. McEligot has been instrumental in helping them conduct research, publish their findings, and pursue further education.

A recognized expert, she has secured millions in grants and reviewed applications for various funding programs. Her insights into funding opportunities benefit both students and her colleagues. “Through her mentorship, I’ve learned how impactful guidance can be for a student’s career,” says Zahra Tahmasebi, a recent graduate who worked with McEligot on research related to aging. Inspired by McEligot, she now mentors undergraduates at UCLA.

With close to three decades in her field, McEligot has published numerous articles and delivered over a hundred presentations. Her commitment to education includes developing curricula on topics like nutrition and epidemiology. Recently, she received the 2025 L. Donald Shields Excellence in Scholarship and Creativity Award, honoring her outstanding contributions to research and teaching.

“Dr. McEligot is dedicated to creating valuable research experiences that prepare students for careers in public health,” notes Michele M. Wood, chair of the public health department. “Her multifaceted approach to teaching, research, and service is truly unique.”

McEligot’s research spans various public health topics, from obesity prevention to the connections between diet and cancer. She has also investigated neurocognitive aging and how factors like ethnicity and chronic conditions influence health outcomes. Her work focuses on marginalized communities, including Southern California’s Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. “Understanding the behaviors and lifestyles that lead to different health outcomes is vital for overall public health,” McEligot explains.

McEligot also values seeing her students grow in confidence as they work on their projects. But her influence reaches beyond the classroom. Collaborating with the Pacific Islander Health Partnership, she studied eating behaviors in Native Hawaiian communities while respecting their cultural practices. Partnership co-founder Jane Ka’ala Pang highlighted this sensitivity as key to fostering strong community engagement in the research.

In a rapidly changing world, experts increasingly point out the importance of culturally responsive health initiatives. According to a 2021 study by the Pew Research Center, 76% of Americans believe that addressing health inequities should be a top priority. Efforts like those led by McEligot play a crucial role in bridging gaps in public health and ensuring diverse voices are heard and included.

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