Dr. Carlos Rodrigo Alvarez
Tell us about yourself.
I am a public health professional with a strong foundation in epidemiology, infectious disease surveillance, and health data analysis. My career has focused on applying rigorous analytic methods to real-world public health challenges, with particular interest in improving disease surveillance systems and promoting health equity. In addition to my technical expertise, I’m passionate about translating data into actionable insights that support evidence-based decision-making at the local, state, and national levels. After earning my Doctor of Public Health (DrPH), I’ve continued to pursue opportunities that allow me to bridge research, practice, and policy. I’m also committed to lifelong learning and professional growth, currently expanding my skills into healthcare analytics and real-world evidence to support public health in both traditional and emerging settings. Outside of work, I enjoy mentoring students and early-career professionals, as well as exploring innovative ways to apply public health principles to business and community initiatives.
Why did you pursue a DrPH?
I pursued a DrPH because I wanted to expand my ability to lead, design, and implement public health solutions that go beyond research alone. While my early training gave me a strong foundation in epidemiology and data analysis, I recognized that true public health impact often requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership, systems thinking, and the ability to translate evidence into practice and policy. The DrPH offered a comprehensive approach that integrates science with real-world application, preparing me to navigate complex public health challenges, build partnerships, and drive sustainable change across diverse communities and organizations.
What are you currently excited about in your job?
I’m currently very excited about efforts to improve the NBS (National Electronic Disease Surveillance System Base System) platform, which plays a critical role in how public health departments collect and analyze surveillance data. By enhancing data quality, streamlining workflows, and improving interoperability, we are helping public health agencies collect more accurate, timely, and complete data. This allows for faster detection of outbreaks, better understanding of disease trends, and more informed public health actions. Being part of work that directly strengthens the capacity of health departments to respond effectively to emerging threats is both rewarding and deeply aligned with my passion for data-driven public health practice.
If you could write a book about your life, what would the title be and why?
“Between Borders: Growing Up, Moving Forward, and Finding Purpose in Public Health” I grew up along the U.S.-Mexico border, where every day life was a blend of two cultures, languages, and healthcare systems. That unique experience shaped how I see the world — I witnessed both the challenges and the resilience that border communities face, especially when it comes to health. In my late 20s, I moved to the U.S. to continue my journey, carrying with me not only my personal story, but also a deep desire to contribute to public health in a meaningful way. The border taught me how interconnected people’s lives are, and how public health must adapt to complex realities. That perspective continues to drive my work today as I focus on improving systems that help communities receive the care and resources they need.
What is something interesting about you that we should know?
One thing that has always shaped who I am is growing up on the U.S.-Mexico border. Every day I would cross between two countries that were physically divided, but deeply connected in culture, family, and community. That daily experience taught me early on how policies, healthcare systems, and public health challenges don’t stop at a line on a map. It gave me a unique lens to understand health disparities, binational collaboration, and the importance of systems that can adapt to complex, real-world situations. That perspective continues to guide my work and passion for improving public health systems today.
