Overview
The UAMS Office of 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,theOffice of 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.
Community Focus
“Office of Community Health and Research faculty integrate a community focus across everything we do. We work closely with communities to answer research questions that are important to community members and to scientific stakeholders.”
Network of Scientific Collaborators
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.
Bridge Between Research and Community Health
“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.”
Exceptional Growth
Since its creation in 2012, the UAMS Office of Community Health and Research has established itself at the forefront of impactful change in the health outcomes of populations in northwest Arkansas and beyond.
Key Highlights
- $70 million+ in grant funding from a variety of sources, including NIH, CDC, PCORI, HHS, and the Walton & Walmart Foundations
- 75+ projects to reduce health disparities in northwest Arkansas and around the globe
- 150+ multidisciplinary faculty and research support staff from a variety of cultural and academic backgrounds
- 20+ program evaluations managed by evaluators in the Office of Community Health and Research
The Future
In the next five years, the UAMS Office of Community Health and Research will be the regional, national and global leader in community-engaged research and action. We hope that you will embark on this journey with us. Together, we will create a better state of health for all.
Collaborative Support
“My research, and the outstanding collaborative support of the team, has resulted in a more in-depth understanding of the health needs of the Pacific Islander communities and a highly successful research career.”
Grow Alongside One of the Most Promising Areas in the Country
Nestled in the beautiful Ozark Mountains, northwest Arkansas is home to hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails and walkways; vibrant art communities; and numerous Fortune 500 companies and community organizations that call it home.
Watch the video above to see what makes northwest Arkansas wonderful, and find more information at the links below.
Additional Information
A Message From Dr. Pearl McElfish
Hear from our division director, Pearl McElfish, Ph.D., about the opportunities to grow with the Office of Community Health and Research.
Read Her Message
Office of Community Health and Research Publications
Researchers in the Office of Community Health have produced groundbreaking research that is creating a better state of health for all people.
Read our Publications
Office of Community Health and Research Leadership Team
Our team is comprised of multidisciplinary faculty and staff who go above and beyond to help create a better state of health for all.
Meet the Team
Office of Community Health and Research Faculty
Our faculty and research teams are leading the way toward better health in Arkansas and beyond.
Meet Our Faculty