A Healthy New Year
As 2026 begins, USC’s health enterprise and health-related schools continue to bring together top clinicians, groundbreaking researchers and dedicated practitioners — along with students who will be the next generation of health experts — to share their knowledge and improve people’s lives.
Toward Healthier Lives
In classrooms, clinics and labs, Trojans are sharing their knowledge, providing care and making discoveries that are changing the health landscape.
Expertise in Every Discipline
USC’s health expertise extends from the university’s medical school to fields including dentistry, pharmacy, physical and occupational therapy, aging and social work. And in every corner of the university, experts in myriad fields are helping their health colleagues make advances that were previously unimaginable.
Quality of life and fertility in male cancer survivorship: A Q&A with USC urologist Kian Asanad
Reproductive urologist and microsurgeon Kian Asanad shares how he keeps quality of life and family top of mind when providing fertility treatment for male cancer patients.
Can a retinal implant reverse macular degeneration?
USC researchers are launching a clinical trial examining whether specially bioengineered stem cells might restore eyesight.
Two USC hospitals named Top Teaching Hospitals by national watchdog group
It’s the first time two USC hospitals have simultaneously received this honor from The Leapfrog Group, a nonprofit national watchdog organization.
For predicting teen anxiety, 2 brains scans are better than 1
A USC Dornsife study shows that combining brain imaging methods may help forecast which adolescents are most at risk for developing anxiety disorders, years before symptoms appear.
Tricking tumors into marking themselves for destruction
USC Viterbi research harnesses focused ultrasound to reprogram solid tumors, making them more effective targets for immune cells.
At USC Urology, a vision to change cancer treatment forever
Inderbir Gill is leading the department’s efforts to completely change how urologic cancers and conditions are treated and potentially cured.
25 for ’25: Our Favorite USC Stories of Last Year
Groundbreaking discoveries. National titles. Moving performances. And lifelong memories. All through 2025, Trojans’ tales kept us inspired; take a look at some of our favorites.
Top Headlines
As Avatar: Fire and Ash sets box office records worldwide, the process by which USC Dornsife alumnus Paul Frommer created the Na’vi language still resonates.
Trying to quit smoking or maybe lose some weight? In this story first published in 2019, USC experts help you think positively, set realistic goals and follow through on your resolutions.
Among the topics on the dean’s agenda: How the USC School of Dramatic Arts’ curriculum cultivates essential human capabilities that will become increasingly valuable as AI transforms entertainment.
The head of USC’s stem cell program visits Vermont Avenue Elementary with heart in hand — literally.
Pushing the Boundaries of Health Research and Care
From public health awareness and economic solutions to AI insights, neuroscience, pharmacy education and community health leadership, USC researchers and students are advancing transformative work across the health spectrum.
From Classroom to Community: USC Student Advances Health Equity
An Executive Master of Health Administration student leads initiatives improving health care access for underserved populations, illustrating USC’s commitment to leadership and community impact.
Studying the Neural Basis of Chronic Pain at USC
Researchers at USC are investigating how neural systems influence the perception and experience of chronic pain, paving the way for more targeted therapies and improved quality of life.
USC Sports Pharmacy Elective Breaks Down Supplement Science and Safety
A specialized sports pharmacy elective at USC examines the science, regulation and safety considerations of dietary supplements for athletes and active individuals.
USC Scholars Outline Potential Savings From Obesity Drugs in White House Report
New research from USC suggests that obesity-treating medications could improve health outcomes and reduce overall health care costs, offering insights for national health policy discussions.
AI Uncovers Links Between Social Determinants and Mental Health Risks in Autistic Youth
Using artificial intelligence, USC researchers identify how social and environmental factors are associated with mental health outcomes in autistic youth, offering a data-driven path to better interventions.
New Findings: HPV Awareness and Vaccination Gaps in the U.S.
USC research reveals widespread lack of knowledge and low vaccination rates for HPV, underscoring a critical need for improved public health education and preventive care.
Spotlight: USC School of Cinematic Arts
The USC School of Cinematic Arts is the nation’s premier institution for film, television and interactive media education. With world-renowned faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and deep ties to the entertainment industry, USC’s film school empowers students and alumni to shape the future of storytelling across platforms.
Teaching, Learning and Working in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
As AI reshapes how we live and work, USC researchers are studying its real-world impacts and helping teachers, clinicians and professionals use new technologies with purpose, ethics and care.
Designing Safe and Ethical AI Chatbots for Health Care
Rethinking English Teaching for a Digital World
A Real-Time Look at How AI Is Reshaping Work
Around the University
How Nina Simone Changed the World
Pulitzer Prize-winning writer and critic Salamishah Tillet joins Jason King, dean of the USC Thornton School of Music, for a conversation on how Nina Simone changed the world. The discussion explores Simone’s boundary-defying artistry and enduring influence on music, culture and social justice — examining her legacy beyond traditional genre lines.
Free with RSVP. Presented by USC Visions and Voices and the USC Thornton School of Music.
Friday, Jan. 23, 7 p.m., Newman Recital Hall
New Student Convocation
New student convocation invites incoming Trojans to mark the official start of their academic journey at USC.
This long-standing tradition celebrates community, spirit and the beginning of a transformative chapter in students’ lives.
Friday, Jan. 9, 10 a.m., Galen Center
