Science Pub: Homelessness and Health: Understanding the Human Cost

With Josh Snodgrass, PhD, Professor and Department Head of Anthropology UO & Jo Weaver, PhD, Professor of Global Studies, UO

What happens to the human body and mind when stable housing is out of reach? Join anthropologists Dr. Josh Snodgrass and Dr. Jo Weaver for an eye-opening look at the health effects of homelessness, from chronic stress and disease to mental health challenges and barriers to care. They will share early findings from their ongoing research study in Eugene, which draws on biology, anthropology, and public health to understand how the stresses of housing insecurity become embodied as health problems. Drs. Snodgrass and Weaver will reveal how homelessness shapes health in Oregon—and what communities can do to make a difference.

July 7, 2026. 7-9PM, Doors at 6pm. McMenamins Mission Theater

Science Pubs are a casual lecture series located in fun venues across the region, recommended for ages 10 and over.

Tickets: $8 suggested donation | Advance tickets recommended

Zoom Option
If you are unable to join us in person, you can watch on Zoom. You must register in advance. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Josh Snodgrass, PhD, is a biological anthropologist and Department Head of Anthropology at the University of Oregon. His research explores how social and environmental factors shape human health, adaptation, aging, and disease across cultures. He uses innovative biological measures such as blood spots, saliva, hair, and urine samples to study health in diverse populations. His work bridges anthropology, human biology, and global health to better understand how people respond to environmental and social challenges.

Jo Weaver, PhD, is a medical anthropologist, global health scholar, and professor in the Global Studies department at the University of Oregon. Her research explores the social causes of health disparities, including homelessness, mental health, chronic disease, and food insecurity. She works in communities across the United States, India, and Brazil, and is the principal investigator of the Homelessness and Health project.