Behavioral scientist Ko joins Public Health Sciences

Dr. Linda Ko joined the Public Health Sciences Division’s Cancer Prevention Program in August.

An expert in health communication and behavior, Ko develops, tests and evaluates health communication interventions for nutrition, physical activity and cancer screening using new technology among disadvantaged racial/ethnic groups. She is also interested in how people make decisions to change behaviors and how the decision-making process leads to behavior change. 

"I have been following the outstanding work in cancer prevention and control done by Hutchinson Center researchers, so when the opportunity came for me to join the program, it was the natural thing to do," Ko said. "I feel privileged to collaborate with an amazing cadre of faculty and students here." 

Ko completed her doctoral and postdoctoral behavioral science training at the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. She is also an assistant professor in the University of Washington’s School of Public Health.

"Linda’s research focuses on theory-based interventions aimed at the prevention and control of cancer, both on the mechanisms that mediate such interventions and on intervention applications," said Dr. Ross Prentice, senior vice president and PHS director. "Her presence at the Center adds to our health communication research expertise, especially in relation to underserved or difficult to reach populations."