Dr. Amrit Baral

Amrit Baral is a Ph.D. Candidate in Epidemiology at the University of Miami (UM) Miller School of Medicine. His research focuses on exploring the bio-physiological and psycho-social effects of cannabis on human health, and the therapeutic potential of emerging plant-based medicines, including psychedelics, for cancer and other chronic diseases. Born in Pokhara, Nepal and trained as a physician at Chongqing Medical University in China, Dr. Baral practiced clinical medicine in Nepal before transitioning to a career in public health and epidemiological research. In 2020, he earned a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from West Chester University (WCU) in Pennsylvania, receiving the Dean’s Scholarship for Global Diversity and Academic Achievement. Upon graduation with an MPH degree, he served as a Disease Surveillance and Investigation Specialist at the Chester County Health Department in Pennsylvania.

Dr. Baral currently holds the positions of Data Manager and Lead Biostatistician for the Herbal Heart Study. His strong analytical and critical thinking skills have been showcased through multiple presentations at prestigious national and international conferences. These include the annual meetings and scientific sessions of the American Public Health Association, College on Problems of Drug Dependence, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, International Cannabinoids Research Society, and the Society for Epidemiological Research.

Dr. Baral has made significant contributions to the scientific community with his first author and co-author scientific publications in international, peer-reviewed journals, showcasing his proficiency as both an independent and a collaborative researcher. Passionate about designing high-quality epidemiological studies, Dr. Baral aims to elucidate the role of alternative and integrative medicine, such as cannabis and psychedelics, in promoting human health and addressing chronic diseases. Additionally, he serves as the Ph.D. student representative for the public health sciences curriculum committee at UM, demonstrating his commitment to academic governance and educational excellence.