Research

UAMS Community Health and Research is an interprofessional research and community health programs team in UAMS’s College of Medicine. The Office of Community Health and Research exists to ensure that every person has access to their best health.

A highly successful and productive research office with a team of more than 150 full-time staff and investigators, UAMS Community Health and Research leads a variety of community-engaged research and programs focused on healthy food systems and food equity; maternal, child, and family health; diabetes and cardiometabolic disease management and prevention; policy, systems and environmental strategies; and equitable program evaluation.

The pioneering work of the office has established a nationally recognized research presence in northwest Arkansas, engaging in innovative collaborations with regional, statewide and national organizations dedicated to eliminating health disparities and improving health outcomes for all.

• Post-Doctoral Fellow Recruitment Guide

The impact of our work is felt across the United States and beyond, thanks in large part to community and scientific partners who help drive our work. This map shows just a few partners where our scientific collaborators are helping us create a better state of health for all.

Within UAMS and the Office of Community Health and Research, you will work alongside multidisciplinary researchers and support staff in an exceptional scientific environment. UAMS’s network of expert scientists and clinicians are available for support and collaboration, in addition to the Office of Community Health and Research’s network of respected collaborators from academic institutions across the United States and beyond. Office of Community Health and Research researchers also enjoy the benefit of the UAMS Translational Research Institute, which provides services and resources to ensure the swift translation of research into health care advances. Learn more about the Translational Research Institute at tri.uams.edu.

Our network spans far beyond the walls of academic institutions. We partner with more than 100 community organizations, schools, employers, churches, clinics, and more. Advisory boards comprised of community stakeholders guide much of our work.

At UAMS, you will have access to the tools you need to conduct meaningful research and enact lasting change.

“The Office of Community Health and Research is a real bridge between research and community health. Our collaborative approach relies on integrating diverse disciplines while promoting the participation of key members of the communities we serve. This participatory approach leads to tangible impact and positive outreach that goes beyond research.”

Rachelle Narcisse Jean-Louis, Ph.D., M.S., Assistant Professor

Our pilot research projects include:

• A study on the Affordable Care Act and how it affects Marshallese COFA migrants.
• A study on the prevalence and severity of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease among the Marshallese in Arkansas.
• A pilot study of a family model of diabetes self-management in the Marshallese community, which led to the current PCORI grant.
• A study on infant feeding practices among Marshallese mothers.
• A study of health beliefs related to type 2 diabetes among the Marshallese in Arkansas.
• A needs assessment survey of the greatest health concerns and perceptions of research participation among diverse communities in Northwest Arkansas.
• A study of participants’ and communities’ perceptions and preferences related to research dissemination.