Michael Petrus-Jones, DO, MEd, MPH, MS

Biography

Michael Petrus-Jones, DO, MEd, MPH, MS, is an assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston and a member of the Division of General Academic Pediatrics. As an academic general pediatrician, he is committed to advancing child health through comprehensive primary care, medical education, advocacy, and community engagement. His clinical practice focuses on preventive care and partnering with children and families to promote lifelong health and well-being.

Dr. Petrus-Jones earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Rice University before completing a post-baccalaureate Master of Science in Medical Sciences, followed by his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine and Master of Public Health degrees, at the University of North Texas Health Science Center. He later earned a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Houston and completed his pediatrics residency and fellowship in Academic General Pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine.

His academic interests include community pediatrics, physician advocacy, graduate medical education, LGBTQ+ health, health equity, and curriculum development. His scholarship focuses on developing and evaluating innovative educational programs that prepare pediatricians to provide inclusive, evidence-based care while strengthening advocacy and community engagement. He has secured grant funding to support educational initiatives and has presented his work nationally through the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Academic Pediatric Association, and the Association of Pediatric Program Directors.

Dr. Petrus-Jones is actively involved in national pediatric leadership through the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Academic Pediatric Association, and the Association of Pediatric Program Directors. His work centers on advancing advocacy education, fostering inclusive learning environments, and supporting the development of future pediatric leaders through curriculum innovation, mentorship, and collaborative scholarship.

As a clinician, educator, and advocate, Dr. Petrus-Jones is dedicated to improving the health of children and adolescents while preparing the next generation of pediatricians to deliver compassionate, equitable, and evidence-based care.