Research Office

College of Health Research Office

Advancing science, making discoveries and engaging communities to promote lifelong health and well-being

Through our research, we contribute to a holistic understanding of the health of individuals and populations, foster innovation and create feasible approaches to address complex health challenges.

Outstanding research faculty and students work collaboratively to study individuals across the life course, examine the impact of social determinants on health, address health equity and disparities, conduct basic and applied research, and translate public health programs to real world settings.

We offer seminars and colloquia to share new research and ignite collaborations, and support four college research centers to foster transdisciplinary research, engage students and translate research to practice.

Signature research areas

In the new strategic plan for 2025 -2030, Health and Well-Being for All, faculty in the College of Health (COH) established three Signature Research Areas. These areas leverage faculty expertise; align with the university’s strategic plan, Prosperity Widely Shared; and build opportunities for distinction.

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Hands holding a small green plant sapling with soil, symbolizing growth and nurturing.

Environmental Impacts on Human Health

Our researchers address environmental health disparities, climate change impacts, and pollution effects on communities, with a focus on developing evidence-informed solutions.

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Two people in white lab coats working in a laboratory.

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

Our researchers are addressing major health challenges through prevention strategies, policy development, and interventions that improve quality of life across diverse populations.

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A young child in a blue shirt sitting on the floor, looking down at a book or puzzle.

Health and Well-being of Children and Youth

Our researchers study how social policies, families, and communities impact child development and youth health outcomes, with focus on equity, disability access, and risk prevention.

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Research stories and news

  • Nutrition student Cedar Kvist examines the impact of the Breakfast After the Bell program on elementary school attendance, aiming to enhance child health and educational outcomes through research.

  • Annika Jacobson conducts biomechanics research on shoulder proprioception, aiming to apply findings to athletic injury prevention.

  • College of Health research shows patients receiving home health care are more likely to use hospice care later, improving end-of-life experiences for 2M+ Medicare recipients.

  • Nutrition undergraduate researcher Louisa Vu enhances digestive health research by creating a standard operating procedure for the SHIME model, supporting future studies in the Dallas Lab.

  • Undergraduate researcher Allison Nofziger investigates the correlation between adverse childhood experiences and preschoolers’ problem behaviors, contributing to the Interplay study’s findings.

  • Undergraduate researcher Andria Slaughter examines how protein digestion processes are altered during space travel, combining in-lab studies on bovine milk proteins with a NASA-aligned literature review to inform future space health strategies.