SAVIR Member Spotlight: Elise Omaki, MHS, Senior Research Associate

Elise Omaki, MHS, Senior Research Associate, Johns Hopkins Center for Injury Research and Policy

Tell us about your areas of interest within injury and violence prevention. Why did you decide to pursue a career in this field?

I started injury and violence prevention during graduate school when I took a student job on a research project that had me going door-to-door in East Baltimore and talking to families about smoke alarms and home fire safety. I loved the community-based nature of the work and the opportunity to partner with the fire department to address the challenges of implementing a fire safety program. Today, my portfolio has expanded also to include research on overdose and violence prevention.

How long have you been a member of SAVIR? What has been your favorite part about being involved with SAVIR?

I have been a member since about 2013. My first SAVIR conference was in Baltimore, about a mile from where I was living at the time. I remember being very nervous because it was my first oral presentation at a scientific meeting, but the audience was so supportive, and the conference is something I have looked forward to ever since!

What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?

I love learning new things, and I feel privileged to work in a position where learning new things is my job! Not only am I responsible for coordinating and participating in the activities that generate new knowledge, but I am also expected to attend seminars and other events where I get to continue learning.

What do you like to do in your free time?

When the weather is nice, I like to work in my garden. I grow as many fruits and vegetables as I can manage and have installed several flower beds. Even pulling weeds can be cathartic. This time of year, when I don’t want to be outside, I’ll take on a simple woodworking project, like making shelves or stools to use around the house.