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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
College of Health researchers have documented significant improvements in child care availability across Oregon, with only nine of the state's 36 counties now considered preschool child care deserts, according to a new report commissioned by the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care.
First U.S. study of its kind by OSU researchers finds Portland noise exceeds EPA and WHO guidelines, with loudest areas affecting low-income and non-white neighborhoods disproportionately.
Professor Perry Hystad has been appointed as the next Associate Dean of Research for the College of Health. The distinguished environmental health researcher brings over $23 million in research funding, 160+ peer-reviewed publications, and extensive leadership experience to the role.
Faculty in the Skeletal Biology Lab recently published two new studies on bone health and disease. Their research explores the effects of chronic alcohol use on bone regeneration and investigates cellular therapies for bone disease.
Researchers led by Jessica Gorman are creating inclusive cancer care programs that address barriers faced by LGBTQ+ survivors, young adults, and underserved communities to improve outcomes for all.
Associate Professor Jessica Gorman's inclusive cancer care research was featured in the Office of Institutional Diversity's 2025 State of Inclusive Excellence at Oregon State.