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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
Researchs analyzed 35,060 water births vs land births, finding better maternal outcomes and no increased infant death risk. Study may change hospital policies nationwide.
Study examining cardiovascular disease among Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders found significant health disparities and highlighted critical data gaps that mask the unique health needs of these diverse populations.
Medical mistrust and misinformation have led to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Latino communities; addressing historical trauma and promoting family-centered messaging are key to improving vaccination rates.
Oregon State University researchers have uncovered a connection between residential proximity to oil and gas drilling and infant health outcomes. Study analyzed over 2.5 million mother-infant pairs in Texas and found that babies born within 3 kilometers of active drilling sites had lower birth weights compared to those born before drilling began nearby, regardless of extraction method.
Oregon State University researchers have uncovered a crucial insight for schools: the quality of recess matters just as much as the time students spend outside the classroom. A multi-state study of third- and fifth-graders demonstrates that high-quality recess—featuring safe environments, engaged adults, and diverse play opportunities—correlates with improved classroom behavior, enhanced resilience, and stronger social-emotional development.
Researchers examine "satisfied stayers" to identify what keeps social workers in the field despite high job demand.