TCU proudly welcomes back one of its own, Don Thushara Galbadage ’07, Ph.D., as he joins as an associate professor in the newly established Department of Applied Health Sciences. With a strong academic background and a deep commitment to public health, Galbadage is set to make a significant impact on the future of health education at TCU.
“I am particularly excited about TCU’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaborations across health care professions,” Galbadage shared. “This approach provides our students with invaluable opportunities to learn how healthcare professionals collaborate in real-world settings.”
From Sri Lanka to Fort Worth
Originally from Sri Lanka, Galbadage grew up amidst beaches and rainforests home to over 800 endemic species, which instilled in him a deep appreciation for the connection between nature and health.
His passion for research and intellectual curiosity were nurtured at TCU, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in biology in 2007, with minors in mathematics and chemistry.
His academic and research mentor, Dr. Phil Hartman, former dean of the College of Science & Engineering, played a pivotal role in shaping his academic path and igniting his interest in preventive health.
Academic and Professional Excellence
Galbadage pursued his Master of Public Health (MPH) in epidemiology at the University of Texas School of Public Health in Houston, further deepening his expertise in public health. He later earned a Ph.D. in Medical Sciences from Texas A&M University College of Medicine.
His academic career includes serving as Director of Public Health programs and Associate Professor of Public Health at Biola University.
His research interests focus on antibiotic resistance, antibiotic stewardship, nanomedicine, multidrug resistance and COVID-19 transmission. Galbadage has contributed significantly to the field through peer-reviewed publications, including studies on COVID-19, mental health during the pandemic and the discovery of orphan and taxonomically restricted genes.
Building the Future of Public Health at TCU
“I look forward to building relationships within Harris College and contributing to the development of a public health focus in the new Applied Health Sciences department,” he adds.
Returning to his alma mater, Galbadage is eager to contribute to the growth of the Applied Health Sciences department and the future development of a public health program at TCU.
The department was established to address the growing need for interdisciplinary approaches in health education. The department plays a crucial role in preparing students for careers in diverse health-related fields, including the anticipated public health major.
Galbadage is also passionate about mentoring students and building relationships with community health partners to provide students with valuable fieldwork experiences and invites students to visit him in his office or research lab to explore opportunities for involvement in ongoing research and projects.
As the demand for public health professionals continues to grow, Galbadage’s expertise and commitment to student success will play a crucial role in preparing TCU graduates to be agents of change in their communities.
He envisions a future where TCU’s public health program stands among the best in the nation, contributing to the advancement of healthcare and the well-being of society.