Dr. Rodrigo Siqueira Reis (he/him/his) is a professor in the School of Public Health at Washington University in St. Louis, where he leads innovative research initiatives focused on the intersections of physical activity, urban environments, health equity and climate resilience. Reis leads the People, Health and Place Unit within the Prevention Research Center, where he is also an investigator.

Across his career, Reis has co-authored over 200 peer-reviewed publications, garnering more than 20,000 citations in Web of Science. His work emphasizes community-engaged approaches to uncover how built environments shape individuals’ opportunities for active living, particularly in underserved urban settings. Beyond investigating active transportation and livable communities, Reis collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to develop, implement and evaluate large-scale interventions, including those addressing climate change adaptation and environmental justice in low- and middle-income countries. With extensive experience securing grants from organizations such as the National Science Foundation, the Brazilian Ministry of Health and the U.S. National Institutes of Health, he has contributed significantly to global efforts to reduce sedentary lifestyles and improve health outcomes. Reis also mentors emerging scholars, championing an inclusive research culture that bridges academic scholarship and community needs.

As director of the People, Health and Place Unit, Reis works collaboratively to expand global understanding of sustainable urban planning, equitable public health policies, and climate-ready infrastructure. His dedication to scientific rigor, interdisciplinary collaboration and social impact continues to drive his commitment to creating healthier, more equitable communities worldwide.

Areas of Focus:

  • Physical activity
  • International health
  • Urban design and health
  • Transportation and health
  • Built Environment and health

Featured Publications