Redefining PhD Education in Health Informatics: Addressing Core Training Challenges in the AI-Era

Presentation Time: 08:00 AM - 09:15 AM

Abstract Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Education and Training, Teaching Innovation
Primary Track: Foundations
Programmatic Theme: Academic Informatics / LIEAF

This panel examines critical challenges in health informatics PhD education through four pioneering programs. Leaders from Cedars Sinai Medical Center, the University of Pennsylvania, Arizona State University, and UTHealth Houston will contrast approaches to: (1) balancing foundational informatics with emerging AI/ML demands; (2) fostering interdisciplinary competence; and (3) bridging the academia-industry skills gap. Moderated by Susan H. Fenton (UTHealth Houston), the 90-minute session combines 15-minute lightning talks, 30-minute moderated debate on curricular pain points, and 30-minute interactive Q&A. Targets educators, program directors, and trainees seeking actionable strategies to modernize doctoral training in alignment with evolving workforce needs. We will present integrated perspectives (through contrasting program models), scholarly debate (a moderated discussion), and substantial audience interaction (33% session time).

Moderator:
Susan Fenton, PhD
UTHealth Houston McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics

Speakers:
Graciela Gonzalez-Hernandez, PhD
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

Hongfang Liu, PhD
University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

Matthew Scotch, PhD, MPH
Arizona State University

John Holmes, PhD, FACE, FACMI, FIAHSI
University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine

Authors:
Graciela Gonzalez-Hernandez, PhD - Cedars-Sinai Medical Center; Susan Fenton, PhD - UTHealth Houston McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics; Matthew Scotch, PhD, MPH - Arizona State University; Hongfang Liu, PhD - University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston; John Holmes, PhD, FACE, FACMI, FIAHSI - University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine;

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