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.
Cultivating interdisciplinary research
Research opportunities for students
COH Office of Research
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.
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.
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.
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
Researcher Marit Bovbjerg addresses the U.S. maternity care crisis, focusing on midwifery and community birth while advancing evidence-based practices for better outcomes.
College of Health researcher Kelly Chandler discusses work-family integration, challenging the 'have it all' narrative and advocating for systemic changes to support working mothers.
Huge congratulations to Biostatistics Professor Adam Branscum for his new milestone! He has been published in 100 different journals.
Public health student Heewon Kim conducts research on donor milk preservation methods to improve antimicrobial efficacy for preterm infant nutrition.
Grace Bliesner engages in research evaluating trauma-informed care training’s impact on first-year teachers, aiming to foster supportive educational environments.
Undergraduate researcher Fiker Tsehaye Berhe examines how physical activity influences cesarean section outcomes, aiming to inform better health practices for women globally.