University of Michigan School of Information associate professor Pedja Klasnja has been elected as a fellow of the Academy of Behavioral Medicine Research (ABMR). 

Fellows are elected through a highly selective process. Klasja was nominated by his peers and is being honored for his “many contributions to the field of behavioral medicine.” 

“Klasnja is known for his pioneering work with mobile health applications and careful evaluation of their efficacy through micro-randomized trials,” UMSI interim dean Elizabeth Yakel said in a statement. “This award recognizes the importance of this work and the potential it holds for healthier lifestyles and well-being.”

Klasnja has long researched the efficacy of technology to better help people manage their health and communicate with healthcare providers. Through mobile interventions, Klasnja believes technology can be a great driver in improving health outcomes and keeping people accountable and aware of their health goals. 

He has published numerous research papers studying the impact of text message reminders to improve cardiac health and get people moving, digital interventions to help reduce anxiety in college students and mobile applications to help smokers quit smoking. 

ABMR’s annual meeting will be in June 2024. Klasnja will receive a certificate and will give a 5-minute presentation about his work. 

“ABMR consists of behavior medicine scholars whose work I've admired for many years,” Klasnja says. “It’s a huge honor to be inducted into the Academy, and I am grateful to the colleagues who supported my membership and the ABMR leadership for their vote of confidence. ABMR annual meetings are the best kind of academic meetings, with extensive time built-in for deep thought and conversation. I am looking forward to taking part in these discussions about the future of our field.” 

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Learn more about Klasnja’s research interests and publications by visiting his UMSI faculty profile. 

— Noor Hindi, UMSI public relations specialist