Learn more about research led by faculty in the Division of Children's Health Services Research.
Seethal A. Jacob, MD, MS
The Jacob Lab for Sickle Cell Health Equity
The Jacob Lab for Sickle Cell Health Equity is dedicated to improving health outcomes for children, adolescents and young adults living with sickle cell disease. Our work focuses on advancing equitable access to high-quality care and strengthening how care is delivered to the community. We design, implement and evaluate innovative, person-centered approaches to health, such as virtual healthcare, neurocognitive screening, literacy promotion, transition readiness and therapeutic clinical trials. Through collaboration, research and advocacy, the Jacob Lab strives to build a more responsive and effective system of care for all individuals affected by sickle cell disease through every stage of life.
Lauren Magee, PhD
Building Research Innovation in Neighborhoods after Gun Violence Exposure
The Building Research Innovation in Neighborhoods after Gun Violence Exposure (BRIDGE) initiative works to reduce firearm injuries, behavioral health, social and justice disparities. The BRIDGE initiative is committed to creating a data-informed, community-driven ecosystem that identifies and supports children exposed to firearm violence — whether or not they are physically injured. Our mission is to strengthen the capacity of children, families and neighborhoods by expanding access to the resources, knowledge and support systems needed to cope with trauma and promote safe, healthy childhoods. Our research team, in close partnership with community advocates, mental health providers, healthcare organizations and police, delivers social and behavioral services to survivors of firearm injury. We aim to prevent future firearm injuries by broadening screening efforts and implementing evidence-based interventions for children who have witnessed or been affected by firearm violence. Through sustained collaboration with local partners and families, BRIDGE aims to ensure that every child impacted by firearm violence receives the support necessary to heal and thrive.
Laura Hooper, PhD, MS
Hooper Lab
Adolescents, families and healthcare professionals are experts who have unique perspectives and insights to contribute. Therefore, our interdisciplinary team uses participatory and qualitative methods so we can collaborate with them to co-design, implement and test solutions to health problems related to weight stigma, disordered eating, nutrition, physical activity and weight.
Natalie Guerrero, MD, PhD
Youth Mental Health and Family Well-Being
The Guerrero Lab for Youth Mental Health and Family Well-Being is dedicated to advancing research that supports the emotional health of adolescents and the families and communities who care for them. Our work centers on understanding how cultural identity and strengths, family communication and racial-ethnic socialization, and experiences in young people’s social environments, such as racial-ethnic discrimination, shape mental health and well-being. We partner closely with Latine communities, schools and youth-serving organizations to develop and refine approaches that strengthen caregiver-adolescent relationships, reduce stress and promote resilience. Across projects, we use mixed-methods and community-engaged research to co-create strategies that help youth thrive. Grounded in adolescent medicine and prevention science, our lab aims to generate knowledge that informs clinical practice, empowers families and drives meaningful improvements in youth mental health.
Rebecca McNally Keehn, PhD
Health Equity through Autism Research Translation
The major focus of the Health Equity through Autism Research Translation (HEART) Lab is to reduce autism and neurodevelopmental health disparities. Our team of scientists, health care clinicians, caregivers of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities, autistic advocates and learners are passionate about applying cutting-edge research methods to solve real-world health care problems and improve the lives of children, their families, and the health care clinicians and systems that care for them.
Michelle Starr, MD
Neonatal and Early Pediatric Kidney Health Lab
The Neonatal and Early Pediatric Kidney Health Lab advances early-life kidney health and reduces disparities in the diagnosis, management and outcomes of acute and chronic kidney conditions in infants and young children. Our team collaborates to understand the biological, developmental and social determinants of kidney health beginning in the neonatal period. We are committed to applying innovative research methods to address real-world clinical challenges, improve the quality of care delivered to pediatric populations and strengthen the systems that support children, their families and the health professionals who care for them.
Jack Turman, PhD
Grassroots Maternal and Child Health
The Grassroots Maternal and Child Health Initiative, led by Jack Turman, PhD, builds the capacity of individuals and organizations in marginalized communities to bring about systems change to improve maternal and child health (MCH) outcomes.