Episode 31: One Goal, Many Fields: How Prevention Science Connects Us

In this episode, host Michael Donovan sits down with Patrick O'Neill, a doctoral candidate in Penn State's Human Development and Family Studies program, and Dr. Hayoung Donnelly, a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania, to explore the interdisciplinary world of prevention science. Together, they discuss how prevention science brings together researchers, policymakers, clinicians, and communities around a shared goal: improving health and well-being through proactive, evidence-based solutions. Patrick shares his work on bridging the gap between research and policymaking, particularly in the areas of child maltreatment and substance use prevention, while Hayoung discusses her efforts to develop AI-powered tools that support suicide prevention and improve the quality of mental health care.

The conversation highlights the power of collaboration across disciplines, the importance of community engagement, and the evolving role of technology in prevention research. Patrick and Hayoung reflect on their unique academic journeys, the challenges of working across traditional academic silos, and the opportunities that emerge when researchers remain open to new perspectives and approaches. They also offer advice for the next generation of prevention scientists, emphasizing curiosity, flexibility, mentorship, and a commitment to creating meaningful real-world impact.