Thomas H. Nassif, PhD, MS

MAJ, MS, USA
Scientist, Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress
Assistant Professor / Deputy Vice Chair for Research, Department of Psychiatry
Uniformed Services University

MAJ Thomas H. Nassif obtained his BA in Biology from the University of Virginia, and MS in Biology and PhD in Behavior, Cognition, and Neuroscience from American University. Major Nassif is Deputy Vice Chair for Research at the USU Department of Psychiatry. He currently serves as a Principal Investigator on SAFEGUARD (Suicide Avoidance Focused Enhanced Group Using Algorithm Risk Detection), a multidisciplinary research initiative designed to leverage predictive analytics and scalable interventions at critical stages during military service to reduce suicidal behavior. As Executive Officer for Psychiatry Global Grand Rounds, he executes quarterly CME-accredited professional development opportunities for military and civilian professionals in collaboration with Society of Uniformed Services Psychiatrists and Washington Psychiatric Society. He also serves as track champion of the Psychiatry Research Track Community, executing monthly forums that foster collaboration across the DoW and academia.

During his previous assignment at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), MAJ Nassif served as Chief of the Sleep Research Center and Principal Investigator on several high visibility studies to promote psychological health and enhance performance of the Warfighter. He led a large-scale randomized controlled trial of a mindfulness- and yoga-based intervention during Basic Combat Training, demonstrating the feasibility and impact of early-stage, universal prevention on physical and mental health. MAJ Nassif’s research with Army operational units demonstrated the effectiveness of mental skills training to manage emotions and strengthen mental toughness. He also led a CDMRP-funded study examining adjustment challenges related to military relocation and identifying modifiable risk factors to support smoother transitions. MAJ Nassif has received the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and Armed Forces Service Medal.