Erica Patterson is a Research Scholar with the Health Law & Policy Institute at the University of Houston Law Center, where her work focuses on public health law, policy research, and interdisciplinary collaboration. As the Principal Investigator for a Tobacco Grant project funded by the Texas Department of State Health Services, she leads research and policy initiatives aimed at advancing health equity. Her work also includes biennial updates to the Control Measures and Public Health Emergencies: A Texas Bench Book, as well as participation in stakeholder meetings on public health emergencies and control measures.
In addition to her research, Patterson oversees the Texas Health Legislative Fellows Program, advises students and the Health Law Organization, and plays a key role in event planning, marketing, and website development for the Institute. Her commitment to fostering interdisciplinary relationships and conducting innovative research is central to her work.
Patterson’s scholarly interests include global health law, regulation, and the intersection of economic development and public health. Prior to joining the University of Houston, she gained extensive experience in legal and policy research, including internships in energy law and public health at Thompson Coburn LLP, the Maryland Office of the Attorney General, and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. She has also co-authored important publications, including the chapter “Economic Development Policy for Public Health Advancement” in Global Health Law & Policy: Ensuring Justice for a Healthier World.
Patterson holds a National & Global Health LL.M. and a Food & Drug Law certificate from Georgetown, a J.D. from Notre Dame Law School and a B.S. in family science and psychology from the University of Maryland College Park, graduating cum laude. She has been recognized with awards such as the ThinkSwiss Travel Grant and the Notre Dame Law School Admissions Fellowship, reflecting her academic excellence and dedication to health and justice.