USS Graduate Admitted to PhD Program at the University of Oxford
Nicolás Fernández, a graduate of Universidad San Sebastián and specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology, has been admitted to the PhD in Women’s and Reproductive Health program at the University of Oxford, where he will conduct research on maternal health from a public health and health economics perspective.
Nicolás Fernández, a graduate of Universidad San Sebastián (USS) and specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology, has been admitted to the PhD in Women’s and Reproductive Health program at the University of Oxford. Beginning in September 2026, he will conduct research on maternal health from a public health and health economics perspective.
A significant academic milestone, Nicolás Fernández, a graduate of the USS School of Medicine, will begin his doctoral studies at the University of Oxford in September 2026 through the Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health.
In recognition of this achievement, Fernández recently visited the Ciudad Universitaria Campus, where he met with USS Board Chair Dr. Carlos Vio, Director of International Affairs Dr. Ana Luz Durán, and General Director of Student Affairs Ronny Bravo. During the meeting, he shared his academic journey and discussed his future research plans.
“Nicolás’s academic trajectory reflects the potential of our graduates to contribute to the future development of the university, particularly in strategic areas such as public health and chronic disease research,” said Dr. Carlos Vio.
“At USS, we have an accredited PhD program in Chronic Diseases that addresses major health challenges, including sex- and gender-related differences in disease and their public health implications. We are creating the conditions that will allow talented graduates such as Nicolás to return and contribute through research, innovation, and academic training,” he added.
Research Focus and Future Academic Development
Beginning in October 2026, Fernández will conduct research on maternal obesity, examining the issue through epidemiological and health economics approaches.
His work will seek to estimate the burden of maternal obesity and evaluate cost-effective interventions for pregnant populations using Chilean data. The goal is to generate evidence that contributes to reducing maternal obesity and preventing its intergenerational transmission.
His admission to the University of Oxford represents an important opportunity to advance research on maternal health and public policy in a field of growing national and international relevance.
The project builds upon his master’s thesis in Epidemiology, where he first explored the relationship between maternal obesity and its transmission across generations. His doctoral research will expand this work by incorporating analytical tools and public health perspectives into an increasingly important area of global research.
Bridging Clinical Practice and Public Health
Throughout his professional career, Fernández has combined clinical practice with teaching and research, developing a strong interest in maternal health, health inequities, and evidence-based public policy.
His growing interest in the connection between clinical care and population-level decision-making led him to specialize in data analysis and health intervention evaluation.
“I realized that the impact of patient-by-patient care, while meaningful, is more limited than the potential impact of research and public policy. Through this work, I hope to contribute to improving health outcomes at a population level,” Fernández explained.
He also emphasized the importance of building a consistent academic trajectory and participating in extracurricular and international experiences, both of which are essential when applying to highly competitive postgraduate programs.
International Experience and Future Perspectives
During his studies at USS, Fernández participated in programs offered by Fundación Botín, an experience that expanded his international outlook and connected him with global academic networks.
“The Botín Scholarship opens doors to countless international opportunities. It also connects you with a network of people pursuing postgraduate studies at institutions such as Oxford, Harvard, and Yale, which motivates you to pursue similar goals,” he said.
These experiences played an important role in shaping his academic development and strengthening his interest in research with a direct impact on public health and policymaking.
Nicolás Fernández’s academic journey reflects a path that combines clinical training, research excellence, and international experience. His admission to one of the world’s leading universities highlights the potential of USS graduates to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the development of solutions to today’s most pressing health challenges.
