Dr. Mary Currier is the new state epidemiologist for the Mississippi Department of Health.

The elevation of Currier, who had served as interim state epidemiologist, was announced Tuesday by state Health Officer Dr. Ed Thompson.

Currier was state epidemiologist from 1993 to 2003 and has served in the interim post since July. She has been dividing her time between the health agency and the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson where she is an associate professor in the School of Medicine.

Officials said Currier will continue providing part time service at UMMC for a transition period.