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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.
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Cultivating interdisciplinary research
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Research opportunities for students
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COH Office of Research
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Research contact
Perry Hystad, PhD
Associate Dean for Research
Contact info and profile page
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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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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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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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.
Research stories and news
Researchers used silicone wristbands to measure 162 chemicals in Houston after Hurricane Harvey. Study found 75% of chemicals increased post-storm, affecting disadvantaged communities most.
OSU researchers explore the effectiveness of a Zoom-based mindfulness program in improving sexual health among breast and gynecologic cancer survivors, demonstrating its feasibility and participant satisfaction.
Researchers analyzed 46,610 COVID patients and found significantly higher rates of anxiety and psychiatric disorders months after infection.
OSU researchers studied people during COVID-19 to understand how leisure activities impacted mental health. Findings show maintaining favorite activities served as protective buffers against depression, with home-based activities most popular.
Video: OSU aging experts Karen Hooker and Carolyn Mendez-Luck discuss caregiving challenges as 1 in 5 Americans will be 65+ by 2030.
More than a year after wildfires devastated Oregon's Santiam Canyon in 2020, an Oregon State University Community Health Impact Assessment reveals residents struggling with housing shortages, government bureaucracy, environmental health concerns, and ongoing trauma.