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Nina Sperber

Associate Professor in Population Health Sciences
Population Health Sciences

Overview


My research career has centered on understanding how to improve delivery of new evidence-based practices in health care systems. I create study designs that integrate qualitative and quantitative methods (mixed-methods) and apply Implementation Science and System Science approaches. I currently have a developing body of academic work that uses participatory system dynamics modeling as a strategy to identify system level factors that affect development and implementation of equitable AI tools. For the VA health care system, I direct a cross-functional team that conducts rapid turnaround projects for high priority needs by VHA national, regional, and facility leaders.

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Associate Professor in Population Health Sciences · 2022 - Present Population Health Sciences, Basic Science Departments
Core Faculty Member, Duke-Margolis Institute for Health Policy · 2024 - Present Duke-Margolis Institute for Health Policy, University Institutes and Centers

In the News


Published March 29, 2024
Center for Precision Health Welcomes New Faculty Leaders
Published March 30, 2022
Providing the Best Prescription Drug Care for Veterans

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Recent Publications


Dementia Care Research and Psychosocial Factors.

Journal Article Alzheimers Dement · December 2025 The emergency department (ED) disposition decision carries significant implications for patient outcomes and care experiences. However, little is known about how people living with dementia and their care partners participate in these decisions. This GEAR ... Full text Link to item Cite

Dementia Care Research and Psychosocial Factors.

Journal Article Alzheimers Dement · December 2025 BACKGROUND: When people living with dementia present to the emergency department (ED), the disposition choice- to admit them to the hospital or discharge them home- can be difficult for providers. In cases that are not straightforward, input from people li ... Full text Link to item Cite

Enhancing team communication to improve implementation of a supervised walking program for hospitalized veterans: Evidence from a multi-site trial in the Veterans Health Administration.

Journal Article PM R · November 2025 INTRODUCTION: The timely translation of evidence-based programs into real-world clinical settings is a persistent challenge due to complexities related to organizational context and team function, particularly in inpatient settings. Strategies are needed t ... Full text Link to item Cite
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Recent Grants


The VA Genomic Learning Health System: Implementing genomic medicine across diverse Veteran communities.

ResearchCo Investigator · Awarded by Boston VA Research Institute, Inc. · 2024 - 2029

Deprescribing Decision-Making using Machine Learning Individualized Treatment Rules to Improve CNS Polypharmacy

ResearchAdvisor · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2024 - 2029

Bridge to Health Evaluation Plan

ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Duke Endowment · 2025 - 2026

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Education, Training & Certifications


University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill · 2010 Ph.D.