Philip Westgate: 2024-25 University Research Professor Q&A

Philip Westgate, Ph.D., acting chair and professor in the Department of Biostatistics in the University of Kentucky College of Public Health, has been honored as a 2024-25 University Research Professor.

Westgate’s research centers on biostatistics, with a specific focus on designing and analyzing data from cluster or community randomized trials. These trials involve the randomization of clusters, such as clinics or entire communities, to different trial arms, allowing for the evaluation of interventions applied to groups of individuals.

With the increasing demands for expansive research into public health interventions, Westgate has designed many funded grant proposals for the UK Substance Use Priority Research Area (SUPRA). Over the last five years, his portfolio of funded work has reached nearly $100 million.

Westgate spoke with UKNow about his latest honor as a University Research Professor in this Q&A.

UKNow: What does it mean to you to be recognized as a University Research Professor?

Westgate: Being recognized as a University Research Professor is an amazing honor that I deeply appreciate. This recognition not only acknowledges the significance of my research contributions but also reflects the collaborative efforts of my colleagues and research teams who have supported and enriched my work along the way.

UKNow: How will the professorships program advance your research?

Westgate: The University Research Professorship program will provide funding for resources that will allow me to advance my research, including trials that play such a crucial role in expanding our understanding of public health interventions and their impact on communities.

UKNow: How does your research address challenges facing Kentucky?

Westgate: Through my biostatistical expertise, I have collaborated on research studies spanning various areas, with a significant focus on addressing the Substance Use Priority Research Area (SUPRA) at the University of Kentucky. One notable example is serving as UK’s lead biostatistician on the HEALing Communities Study. 

UKNow: What impact will your research have on Kentucky?

Westgate: I hope that my research will play a role in improving health outcomes and the well-being of individuals and communities across Kentucky.

About the University Research Professors

Each year, the University of Kentucky Board of Trustees approves a cohort of faculty as University Research Professors. The distinction recognizes excellence in work that addresses scientific, social, cultural and economic challenges in Kentucky and the world.

College leadership developed criteria for excellence within their area of expertise and then nominated faculty who excelled at these criteria. Each University Research Professor receives a one-year award of $10,000 and participates in other events planned around the program.

Research reported in this publication was supported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number UM1DA049406. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.