Yan Zhang, Ph.D., L.Ac.

Education

• PhD, Health Services Research, Old Dominion University
• MMed, Acupuncture and Meridian Research, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences
• BMed, Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Courses Taught

• APHS  20203 Epidemiology & Biostatistics
• HCHS 70233 Scientific and Grant Writing
• HCHS 80213 Quant/Qual Methods
• HCHS 80223 Intermediate Statistics
• HCHS 80233 Advanced Statistics 
• HCHS 80253 Multilevel Modelling 

Areas of Focus

• Research methodology, including study design, program planning, evaluation, and advanced statistical analysis across diverse health science disciplines
• Efficacy and implementation of integrative health modalities such as acupuncture, yoga, and other mind-body interventions in clinical and community settings
• Health behaviors, prevention, and management of chronic conditions, with emphasis on women’s health and cancer survivorship
• Cross-cultural health research and promotion of evidence-based complementary medicine through national and international collaboration

Yan Zhang, Ph.D., L.Ac. is a Professor of Professional Practice in the Department of Applied Health Sciences at Texas Christian University’s Harris College of Nursing & Health Sciences. She earned her Ph.D. in Health Services Research from Old Dominion University, a Master of Medicine from the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, and a Bachelor of Medicine from Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Dr. Zhang’s expertise lies at the intersection of research methodology, integrative health, and applied health sciences. Her scholarship focuses on study design, program evaluation, and advanced statistical analysis to strengthen evidence-based research across diverse health disciplines. Her research interests include the efficacy and implementation of integrative health modalities—such as acupuncture, yoga, and other mind–body interventions—as well as health behaviors, chronic conditions, women’s health, and cancer survivorship.

With more than 80 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Zhang has made significant contributions to the field and has served in editorial leadership roles, including Associate Editor positions with Global Advances in Health and Medicine and BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies. Previously, she founded and led the Division of Integrative Medicine at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and has collaborated extensively on NIH- and foundation-funded projects.

In addition to her research, Dr. Zhang is a nationally certified and Texas-licensed acupuncturist, bringing a distinctive clinical perspective to her academic work. She is deeply engaged in doctoral education, serving on comprehensive exam and dissertation committees, mentoring students, and contributing to curriculum development. She also provides statistical consultation for peer faculty to support the design and analysis of externally funded research projects.

Driven by a passion for integrative and interdisciplinary approaches to health, Dr. Zhang is committed to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals. Through her teaching, research, and mentorship, she empowers students to think critically, innovate boldly, and lead improvements in health outcomes across diverse populations.

Selected Publications

To explore Professor Yan Zhang’s selected publications, please visit her profile page on NCBI.