Nabarun Dasgupta Recognized with TIME100 Health and NC Dogwood Awards for Public Health Leadership
Nabarun Dasgupta, an innovation fellow at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health and senior scientist at the UNC Injury Prevention Research Center, has garnered two prestigious accolades this week. On Friday, February 13th, 2026, it was announced that Dasgupta was named to the TIME100 Health List of the World’s Most Influential Leaders in Health and also received the N.C. Attorney General’s Dogwood Award. This dual recognition highlights his significant public health influence on a national scale and his steadfast dedication to communities and advocates throughout North Carolina and beyond.
These awards collectively celebrate Dasgupta's profound impact, recognizing both his broad public health contributions and his commitment to aiding North Carolina communities. The honors underscore his leadership in fostering healthier populations and his tangible efforts to improve safety and well-being at the local level.
Addressing the Street Drug Crisis Through Data Innovation
The 2026 TIME100 Health List shines a spotlight on 100 of the year's most influential figures in health globally. Dasgupta, who also spearheads the UNC Street Drug Analysis Lab, earned his place on this esteemed list for his pioneering work in confronting the street drug crisis. His approach involves critical data analysis, direct street drug testing, and the development of practical, frontline solutions.
His efforts provide vital information to communities and healthcare providers, enabling informed decision-making through publicly accessible data and expert insights. This innovative, data-driven strategy is crucial for understanding and mitigating the devastating effects of the drug crisis.
Honoring Community Commitment and Collaborative Impact
Beyond his national influence, Dasgupta was also honored with the 2026 Dogwood Award, a distinction presented to North Carolinians who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the safety, health, and happiness of their communities. He accepted this award at a ceremony held on February 13th. The Dogwood Award specifically acknowledges his grassroots engagement and dedication to local welfare.
Reflecting on this recognition, Dasgupta shared, “I especially want to thank the dozen members of our team at the UNC Injury Prevention Research Center who do the tireless work every day of making kits, shipping boxes, analyzing samples, entering and analyzing data, managing finances, and conducting field studies.” This statement underscores the collaborative nature of his impactful work. The combined weight of the TIME100 Health and Dogwood Awards truly demonstrates the extensive scope of Dasgupta's influence, from shaping national health discussions to delivering concrete benefits at the community level. This recent recognition follows his receipt of the MacArthur Fellowship, often referred to as the “genius grant,” in October.
%2520(1)(1)_0.jpg%3Fitok%3DKlo5ZSUI)
