Paz Cook, RN, BSN, MSN, MSc.Epi

Paz is an international Ph.D. student in Epidemiology at UNC from Santiago of Chile, South America. Her research focuses on identifying mechanisms to improve cancer screening through non-invasive methods at the population level with the goal of increasing early detection in disadvantaged groups to reduce inequalities. She has had previous experience conducting research in different socioeconomic settings, from the wealthiest populations of northern Chile to the poorest and most densely populated neighborhoods of Santiago. In these settings, she has implemented projects, adjusted to diverse geographic and cultural realities, and formed and led research teams. Throughout her career she has received many awards, the most prestigious being the Fulbright scholarship to pursue her doctorate degree.

During her studies at UNC, she has become aware of the scarce representation of international Latin American students and has made it a personal goal to help identify access barriers leading to solutions to improve student enrollment and participation. She believes that international collaboration and exchange of knowledge and culture are essential to improve understanding of health issues.

On a personal level, she is a wife and mother of two children.  Her native language is Spanish. She is passionate about dance and other artistic expressions such as playing instruments and painting.