Jason Deakings, PhD, MPH, assistant professor of behavioral and community health sciences and associate director of the Center for Health Equity, recently received separate honors highlighting his research accomplishments.
He was named to the 2026 New Pittsburgh Courier’s “Fab 40 under 40” list and, on behalf of Meharry Medical College, chosen as a Distinguished Research Alumnus.
The recognitions highlight Deakings’s work examining how structural and social factors influence health outcomes in marginalized communities. In particular, his research interests focus on how Black and Brown communities interact with clinical systems and the barriers that shape health care access.
“I didn’t even know anyone had nominated me, so both came completely out of the blue. I feel very honored,” said Deakings.
“A lot of my research focuses on how Black and Brown communities interact with the clinical setting,” Deakings said. “That includes everything from HIV and chronic conditions to maternal and child health—really trying to understand how people experience the health care system.”
The New Pittsburgh Courier’s 2026 “Fab 40 under 40” list honors young African American professionals in various sectors who are making significant impacts in the Greater Pittsburgh area.
Deakings, alongside seven Pitt affiliates, will be honored at an awards dinner on March 27 at the Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square.
Being included on the list was meaningful for Deakings, who grew up in Pittsburgh’s Homewood neighborhood.
“I remember thinking it would be cool to be part of the list one day, but I never really gave it a second thought,” he said.
Each year, Meharry Medical College of Nashville, Tenn., recognizes alumni whose careers exemplify excellence, innovation and meaningful impact in research. A recognition reception was held in early March where Deakings participated as a panelist.
During the symposium, Deakings spoke with current students, an opportunity he especially relished.
“I just finished my PhD in 2024, so I’m not far removed from where they are., I told them, ‘This is doable.’ Sometimes when you’re in graduate school, imposter syndrome can feel really heavy, but you have to trust the skill set you’ve developed,” Deakings said. “My heart is really in the work.”
-Ava Dzurenda