university of houston medical research

HEALTH Research Institute

Helping Everyone Achieve a LifeTime of Health

We are committed to health-equity science.

The communities we serve face many challenges and our primary mission is to conduct innovative research that presents novel prevention and intervention strategies to combat a broad range of health disparities such as obesity, substance abuse and cancer.

FY2020 By the Numbers

• $895K Total External Research Expenditures
• 15 Federal Proposals Submitted
• 61 Peer-Reviewed Journal Articles
• 84 Research Presentations and Abstracts

The HEALTH Research Institute leverages an interdisciplinary group of researchers at the University of Houston to advance science capable of meeting the health needs of the Houston community and beyond. HRI membership currently spans 9 colleges and 14 academic units.

Education - 7

Engineering - 1

Liberal Arts & Social Sciences - 6

Medicine - 4

Natural Sciences & Mathematics - 1

Pharmacy - 1

Social Work - 3

Technology - 1

We Learn From the Community for the community

By leveraging expertise from interdisciplinary scientists across six academic units and input from the community, we apply scientific capabilities and determine solutions to address the health needs of neighborhoods in Houston, the state of Texas and beyond.

Community-Engaged Research

The HEALTH Research Institute advances a community-engaged research model that rapidly disseminates scientific breakthroughs designed to mitigate, and ultimately eliminate, community-identified health challenges in metropolitan Houston and beyond.

We Partner With the Community to solve complex problems

Through active and equitable partnerships with our community advisory boards, stakeholders, elected officials and community members, we are uniquely positioned to eliminate health disparities through multi-site cooperative trials, public health initiatives and activities that are embedded in the cultural fabric of the communities we serve.

Featured Faculty

Samina Salim

Kumaraswamy Naidu Chitrala

Pooja Patel

Elizabeth Jelsma

Impact areas.

• Access to Care
• Basic Biomedical Science
• Basic Science
• Community-Based Implementation Strategies
• Cultural Predictors
• Environmental Predictors
• Medical and Health Literacy
• Mental Health and Substance Use and Abuse
• Mental Health Outcomes
• Prevention and Treatment
• Racism and Discrimination
• Risk-Factors for Chronic Diseases
• Social Determinants of Health Behavior
• Stress Neurobiology
• Substance Use and Abuse
• Trauma and Psychological Stress

Featured News

• Research Labs

Abidian Group (Dr. Mohammad Reza Abidian)

Abidian research group works at the interface of biomaterials and electronic devices to develop next-generation neural interfaces. Engineering these systems requires an interdisciplinary approach that incorporates aspects of polymer synthesis, micro/nano-fabrication techniques, and cell-biomaterials interactions. These electronically active devices have a broad range of applications such as controlled drug delivery, neural recording, and stimulation, neurochemical sensing, and axonal regeneration.

Current efforts are focused on the following areas:

• Multifunctional organic-inorganic hybrid nanobiomaterials for smart targeted drug delivery to brain tumors.
• Bioactive conducting polymer and carbon nanotubes for axonal regeneration and biotic-abiotic interface of neural prostheses.
• Chronic, selective, and sensitive detection of neurochemicals using conducting polymer micro/nano-tubes.

Neural Engineering and Informatics Laboratory (Dr. Metin Akay and Dr. Yasemin Akay)

Brain Chip for Precision Medicine The ability to quickly assess the effectiveness of a cancer drug would be a notable improvement over typical cancer protocols in which chemotherapy drugs are given, then tested for several months, and a patient switched to another drug if the first is ineffective. We have developed new brain cancer chip allows multiple-simultaneous drug administration, and a massive parallel testing of drug response for patients with glioblastoma (GBM). This platform could optimize the use of rare tumor samples derived from GBM patients to provide valuable insight on the tumor growth and responses to drug therapies in as little as two weeks. Further, this platform could be applied to related tissue engineering drug screening studies. (In collaboration with Jay-Jiguang Zhu, MD, director, Neuro Oncology, McGovern Medical School at UT Health.)

More information can be found here:

• https://neurosciencenews.com/brain-cancer-chip-15503/
• https://www.tmc.edu/news/2020/01/improved-brain-chip-for-precision-medicine/
• https://www.newsbreak.com/texas/houston/news/2072626856219/research-from-akay-lab-tops-among-ieee-popularity
• https://twitter.com/IEEEembs/status/1305921044092530690

Effect of Maternal Substance Abuse on the Dopamine Neural Circuitry during Early Maturation Our preliminary data suggests that dopamine neurons, in response to nicotine exposure during pregnancy, were significantly activated. We hypothesize that the impacted dopamine can result in babies being born addicted to nicotine. Once we understand which gene regulator networks, and which gene pathways are altered, we can develop targeted medication that could eliminate addiction in offspring. We believe that our research may identify new molecular or cellular pathways that can be probed for future treatments that could assist in smoking or alcohol cessation.

• https://neurosciencenews.com/genetics-nicotine-dopamine-10699/
• https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-09/uoh-an092320.php
• https://www.pourquoidocteur.fr/Articles/Question-d-actu/33902-La-consommation-d-alcool-tabac-debut-de-grossesse-multiplie-risques

An Intelligent Wearable System for the Localization of Coronary Occlusions We have developed a new and relevant approach for the early detection of coronary artery disease by detecting and analyzing diastolic heart sounds associated with turbulent blood flow in partially occluded coronary arteries. The acoustic approach differs from other more customary techniques based on the coronary artery disease symptoms. Decision parameters used in this research are independent of those used in other noninvasive techniques and may be used with the other noninvasive techniques to achieve an improved, non-invasive diagnostic capability.

The Laboratory for Retinal Molecular and Cellular Biology and Gene Therapy (Dr. Muna I. Naash and Dr. Muayyad R. Al-Ubaidi)

The research interests of the joint labs of Drs. Naash and Al-Ubaidi involve primarily the study of the mechanisms of retinal degeneration in animal models of human blinding disorders. Knockin mouse models for mutations that affect humans are generated and subjected to non-invasive functional and structural techniques to assess the rate of degeneration. Then molecular and biochemical analyses are performed on retinal samples obtained from the mouse models. These mouse models are then used to develop nanoparticle based gene therapy to ameliorate the disease phenotype. The animals models used in the labs are for retinitis pigmentosa and Usher syndrome. Another approach that has been recently introduced is the study, using metabolomics, of the metabolic changes that occur prior and during the retinal degenerative process. A student working on any of these projects would attain hands-on experience in electroretinography, optical coherence tomography, fundus imaging, as well as molecular, biochemical, cell biological and histologic techniques. Research in the Naash and Al-Ubaidi labs is funded by awards from the National Eye Institute.

Dr. Joseph Francis Research Lab (Dr. Joseph Francis)

My lab works towards the restoration of movement control via Brain-Machine Interfacing (BMI). We utilize high channel count (100 – 1000 electrodes) neurophysiological recording and stimulation to form bidirectional-BMIs, which translate neural activity into control signals for robotics and computer control and input information directly into the brain, such as somatosensory information. I’m also interested in using ideas from Psychology, Neuroscience, and Economics towards developing autonomously learning BMIs and a general understanding of the brain towards decision making and planning. A third main interest of mine has been the study of learning and memory. I’ve been utilizing psychophysical, electrophysiological, molecular, and computational methods to understand learning and memory and to input and erase memory. Publications:  https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=KE8n0OAP4cEC&hl=en

Dr. Howard Gifford Research Lab (Dr. Howard Gifford)

Dr. Howard Gifford's research in image science is devoted to medical imaging, primarily emphasizing the development, assessment, and optimization of imaging systems for detecting cancer. One branch of the work is concerned with devising reliable models for predicting the diagnostic utility of new clinical imaging technology. The second and more expansive branch of work is directed at actually applying these predictive models to design and optimize diagnostic imaging systems. Current areas of interest include gamma-ray imaging with positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and x-ray digital tomosynthesis (DT).

Cardiovascular Tissue Engineering Laboratory (Dr. Renita Horton)

Cardiovascular Tissue Engineering Laboratory focuses on developing tools and techniques to investigate heart development and cardiovascular disease mechanisms.

Approaches:

• Microenvironmental cues
• Mechanotransduction
• Tissue stucture/architecture
• Electro/chemical signals
• Genetic and epigenetic cues

Biomedical Optics Laboratory (Dr. Kirill Larin)

The research activities in the Biomedical Optics Laboratory concern the development of novel methods for structural and functional imaging of tissues and cells (based on Optical Coherence Tomography and Optical Elastography techniques).

Majd Group (Dr. Sheereen Majd)

We are interested in development of micro- and nano-scale platforms that enable studying molecular processes on and across biological membranes, and mimic these membranes for drug delivery and biosensing applications.

Dr. Elebeoba Ma​y MIDAS Research Lab (Dr. Elebeoba May)

Research interests of Dr. Elebeoba Ma​y MIDAS Research Lab include: Development of multi-scale models and simulation of biological pathways and systems; use of simulation-based models of host-pathogen interactions to understand molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis and disease; development of integrated quantitative/empirical platforms to enable predictive modeling and simulation of host-pathogen and multicellular interactions by enabling acquisition of high-resolution kinetic, whole-cell data; the use and application of information theory, coding theory, and signal processing to the analysis of genetic regulatory mechanisms; algorithm development for computational biosensors for detection and classification of polymorphisms, microbial identification and strain classification

Dr. Chandra Mohan Research Lab (Dr. Chandra Mohan)

Dr. Mohan’s laboratory focuses on the diagnostics and therapeutics of autoimmune diseases and malignancies, as detailed in https://mohanlab.bme.uh.edu

Diseases of Interest: Lupus, Autoimmune Diseases, Cancers of the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts 

Techniques/Platforms of Interest: Proteomics, Arrays, Point of Care Tests (Vertical Flow Assays), Novel diagnostic tools, Imaging Mass Cytometry, 3D cultures of renal and immune tissue, Nanomaterials, AI and Machine Learning 

Please visit lab URL for more details:  https://mohanlab.bme.uh.edu

Rehabilitation Engineering for Improving Neuromotor Control (REIGN) Lab (Dr. Jinsook Roh)

The REIGN Lab’s research is focused on understanding the mechanisms of neuromuscular coordination in neurologically intact and impaired individuals (esp. stroke) and translating resultant scientific findings into developing novel neurorehabilitation strategies. We also assess the effects of the rehabilitation methods by using multi-modal approaches including brain imaging. Our multi-faceted work uses rehabilitation robotics, brain stimulation and neuromodulation, and electromyographic and kinematic quantification. We often collaborate with engineers, neuroscientists, and clinicians because of the multidisciplinary nature of the work. Below are the major research areas in the REIGN lab:

• Developing myoelectric signal-guided neurorehabilitation strategies to improve motor function after stroke
• Examining the effects of operant conditioning of motor evoked potential on intermuscular coordination after stroke
• Developing automatized quantification of motor impairment after stroke by using rehabilitation robotics

Blood Microfluidics Lab (Dr. Sergey Shevkoplyas)

The research in the Blood Microfluidics Laboratory (Prof. Sergey Shevkoplyas) is focused on development and clinical translation of high-throughput microfluidic devices and single-cell analysis tools in the field of blood storage and transfusion medicine.  Our goal is to develop technology for eliminating mediators of toxicity from stored blood, and for separating whole blood into components for transfusion in resource-limited settings.  A significant additional thrust of our research efforts is the development of low-cost point-of-care diagnostics (e.g., for sickle cell disease).

Dr. Tianfu Wu Research Lab (Dr. Tianfu Wu)

Dr. Tianfu Wu Research Laboratory has the following research focus: (1) Discovery and identification of drug targets for immunological and neuropsychiatric diseases; (2) Development of next generation point-of-care diagnostics systems, including biochips, nanomaterial-based fluorescent/NIR probes, and nano-polymeric biosensors for ultrasensitive detection of disease state. The goal is to tackle the existing technological challenges in effective detection of low-abundant proteins and post-translational modified proteins in complex biological samples, especially when these proteins are critical in the pathogenesis of diseases. The development of these novel technologies will aid in early diagnostics, disease monitoring, assessment of drug responses and guiding treatment strategy; (3) Development of versatile and biocompatible nanomaterials for drug delivery to improve bioavailability, effective targeting and controlled release of drugs for chronic diseases. This includes the delivery strategy for combinatory medicine, e.g. the combination of drug/gene therapy. The goal is to tackle the problems of drug efficacy, drug resistance and side-effects commonly seen in today’s medicine.

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A Visionary Commitment to Houston's Health

Fertitta Family Pledges $50 Million to UH College of Medicine to Propel 'New Era of Health Care'

By Chris Stipes I Layout by Ben Corda

HOUSTON, May 19, 2022 – Prominent businessman Tilman J. Fertitta and his family have pledged $50 million to the University of Houston College of Medicine to ignite a new era of innovative and equitable health care in Houston and across Texas. In recognition of the legacy-defining support, the medical school is now named the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine.

 The longtime chairman of the UH System Board of Regents, Fertitta was instrumental in establishing the city of Houston’s first new medical school in nearly 50 years. Founded in 2019 on a distinct social mission to improve health and health care in underserved urban and rural communities where poor health outcomes are often more prevalent, the Fertitta Family College of Medicine educates students to provide compassionate, high-value care (high quality at reasonable cost), with a focus on primary care and other needed physician specialties. Building on the University’s legacy of excellence as a Tier One research institution, interdisciplinary research involving the community and other disciplines at UH will propel improvements in patient care and health.

"Our family has such a passion for this medical school and its pursuit of health equity..." Tilman Fertitta, chairman of the UHS Board of Regents

The gift will help address the state’s critical primary care physician shortage, especially in low-income and underserved communities, attract renowned scholars focused on health care innovation and establish support for the college and its faculty to pursue clinical and translational research, with an emphasis on population health, behavioral health, community engagement and the social determinants of health.

“Our family has such a passion for this medical school and its pursuit of health equity so everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, zip code or socioeconomic status, has the same opportunity to be as healthy as possible,” said Fertitta. “My hope is that the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine will be a game-changer for the health and well-being of Texans by improving access to quality health care, advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care through health and health care research.”

Tilman Fertitta signs a piece of limestone that will be part of the new College of Medicine building (Exclusive preview event/Nov. 2021)

Fertitta Family $50 Million Gift Breakdown:

• $10 million funds five endowed chairs for faculty hires who are considered national stars in their fields with a focus on health care innovation. This portion of the gift will be matched one-to-one as part of the University’s  “$100 Million Challenge” for chairs and professorships, doubling the endowed principal to $20 million.
• $10 million establishes an endowed scholarship fund to support endowed graduate research stipends/fellowships for medical students.
• $10 million will cover start-up costs for the Fertitta Family College of Medicine to enhance research activities including facilities, equipment, program costs and graduate research stipends/fellowships.
• $20 million will create the Fertitta Dean’s Endowed Fund to support research-enhancing activities.

"It is only fitting this new, ambitious and forward-thinking medical school should bear the Fertitta name." Renu Khator, University of Houston president

The gift officially launches a $100 Million fundraising campaign for the Fertitta Family College of Medicine to support scholarships, faculty recruitment and operational needs for equipment, programs, student success initiatives and more. University of Houston President Renu Khator hopes the gift will inspire others to consider contributing to Houston’s newest “crown jewel."

“Tilman Fertitta and his family have made a visionary investment, so it is only fitting this new, ambitious and forward-thinking medical school should bear the Fertitta name. It will have a remarkable and lasting impact on Houston and the world. Thanks to the Fertitta family’s amazing generosity, the financial security and longevity of the medical school is cemented for generations to come,” said UH President Renu Khator.

Game Changer

Fertitta is the sole owner, president and CEO of Fertitta Entertainment which owns the restaurant giant Landry’s, the Golden Nugget casinos and hotels, and the NBA’s Houston Rockets. He is considered one of the foremost authorities in the restaurant, gaming, entertainment and hospitality industries and is a New York Times best-selling author, while also leading numerous civic boards in Houston.

He has served on the UHS Board of Regents since 2009, was elected chairman in 2014 and has served ever since. Last year the governor reappointed him to the Board for another six-year term. In 2016, Fertitta donated $20 million, the largest individual donation ever to UH Athletics, to help transform the UH basketball arena into a modern-day sports venue now called the Fertitta Center.

"Tilman Fertitta is a visionary leader and staunch advocate of the University of Houston..." Dr. Stephen J. Spann, founding dean of the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine

“Tilman Fertitta is a visionary leader and staunch advocate of the University of Houston, evidenced by his remarkable commitment that will bring our medical school to national prominence and the forefront of medical education,” said Dr. Stephen J. Spann, founding dean of the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine. “Naming a medical school is a rare opportunity that not only creates lasting momentum for the University, but more importantly, ensures people who desperately need access to health care get it.”

Last year, the Fertitta Family College of Medicine became an official member of the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical center in the world. It will have an estimated regional economic impact of $377 million by 2029 and will expand health-related research at the University of Houston by an estimated 400% over the next 30 years. To help support and guide its operations, key partnerships have been forged with HCA Houston Healthcare, Humana, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas and others.

“With this gift to the medical school, we not only want to improve the lives of Texans, but also help propel the University of Houston to the upper echelon of public universities in the nation,” said Fertitta.

Filling the Gap

Mistrust in the medical system among marginalized communities, and other factors including poverty, have contributed to a gap in access to health care nationwide. By addressing the societal factors that affect their patients' health – such as food insecurity, the environment, employment and housing – doctors trained at UH will help eliminate health disparities and create a more equitable health care system.

A significant shortage of primary care physicians also contributes to that gap – Texas ranks 47th in the nation for active primary care physicians. There will be an estimated shortage of 3,375 full-time equivalent (FTE) primary care physicians in 2030, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. 

An analysis by the American Public Media Research Lab in 2021 found 249 of Texas’ 254 counties have areas of shortages of primary care physicians. In 228 of them, the entire county has a shortage, nearly double the amount observed in 2019.

To address this troubling trend, the Fertitta Family College of Medicine aims for at least half of its graduates to choose to practice primary care, when only about 20% of medical students do so nationwide. The intended impact is improved health outcomes for our communities resulting in decreased sick time, increased productivity, lower medical costs and better quality of life.

Bolstering the ethnic diversity of the physician workforce to ensure that it reflects the population is another priority. Of the 60 students in the medical school’s first two classes, 67% are from underrepresented groups in medicine and more than half come from a low socioeconomic background. In contrast, only 13% of all students accepted to U.S. medical schools are Black or Hispanic/Latino. At full enrollment within the decade, the college will have 480 students.

Community Impact

The vision to transform population health and health care equity starts near the UH campus in Houston’s East End and Third Ward. These communities have some of the poorest health outcomes in Harris County. The medical school has established community working groups comprised of community-based organizations, health care and social service providers, churches and other community members, which meet monthly to ensure a collective approach to community health and well-being.

The college’s innovative curriculum emphasizes community and population health, primary care, behavioral and mental health, and preventive medicine. Students are consistently and longitudinally exposed to primary care settings and practice. For example, the Household-Centered Care program pairs an interprofessional student team with a family living in an underserved community throughout the four years of the curriculum. Also, because of the significant need to increase the number of physicians practicing in rural areas, students are required to participate in a four-week clinical learning experience in rural Texas. 

Medical student and native Houstonian Jalyce Taylor, a member of the college’s inaugural class, is passionate about becoming a physician who will address health disparities because members of her family live in medically underserved communities.

“I have an opportunity as a physician to provide equitable care to people and to be the change that I want to see in this society,” said Taylor.

Since last fall, the college has also launched two community-based medical clinics staffed by faculty physicians. The Family Care Center on the UH campus offers affordable, comprehensive primary care and behavioral health services to anyone, regardless of income, residency status, employment, health insurance coverage or ability to pay. A sliding fee scale is available according to household size and income.

In Southwest Houston, where nearly one in three people live below the federal poverty level and the uninsured rate is five times higher than the rest of the nation, the college operates a direct primary care clinic on the campus of Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital. Patients receive broad spectrum primary care services for a flat membership fee of $60 per month, expanding access to care for the uninsured.

New Building Opening Soon

The first two classes of 60 medical students are currently taking classes in the Health 2 building on campus, the medical school’s temporary home until construction on a new $80 million building is completed this summer.

Architectural rendering of the medical school's new $80 million building.

The three-story, 130,000-square-foot building is located on 43-acres of previously undeveloped campus land that will be part of a future life sciences complex along Martin Luther King Boulevard. The building will feature a state-of-the-art anatomy suite, clinical skills lab, patient examination rooms, simulation center, large team-based learning classrooms, small group meeting rooms, faculty and administrative offices and dedicated social and study spaces. 

“I am so thrilled with everything our medical school has accomplished in such a short period of time and truly believe this is only the beginning of the transformational impact it will have on so many Texas communities,” said Fertitta.

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Image Processing & Medical Imaging Laboratory

This document provides information about research at the Image Processing and Medical Imaging Research Laboratory at the University of Houston.

Associate Professor: Thomas J. Hebert PhD student: Victor Gallardo Collaborator: Patrick Ford, M.D., Radiology, Baylor College of Medicine.

Research Areas

• segmentation and analysis of time-varying 3-D medical images,
• laser imaging, adaptive optics, real-time control of adaptive optics systems.
• lossless compression of seismic data,
• image restoration, 3-D reconstruction, Bayesian approaches to image restoration and reconstruction, 3-D tomography, image modeling, multi-modality image registration and correlation, gated cardiac imaging, statistical image processing, automated image analysis.

4-D segmentation of gated Myocardial Perfusion images

3-D segmentation of Positron Emission Tomography transmission images

The laboratory provides an optical bench and a high speed programmable video processing board.

Several medical imaging research projects involve close collaboration with premiere institutes in the Texas Medical Center, such as St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine. Access is available to several state of the art nuclear medicine and magnetic resonance imaging equipment in the Texas Medical Center.

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Cardiovascular Medicine

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Welcome to the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine

Located in Houston’s Texas Medical Center, the largest medical center in the world. In the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, we uphold UTHealth Houston’s mission to educate health science professionals, discover and translate advances in the biomedical and social sciences, and model the best practices in clinical care and public health , by using an innovative approach to the diagnosis, and development of long-term strategies for patients at risk or with a history of cardiovascular disease.

Our faculty are leading experts in adult cardiology including:

• Structural and Interventional Cardiology
• Cardiac Imaging and Vascular Medicine
• Adult Congenital Heart Disease
• Geriatric Cardiology
• Women’s Heart Disease
• Marfan cardiac syndrome and more

Our faculty are also dedicated to cutting edge research, teaching, and patient care programs to address all diseases and conditions affecting the cardiovascular system.

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Interested in a future in cardiovascular research?

Funded by the American Heart Association (AHA), the University of Houston’s – Houston Experience for Advancing Research and Training (UH-HEART) program provides transdisciplinary summer research experiences and translatable skills that prepare participants for future careers in cardiovascular-related research.

Up to five AHA research fellowships will be awarded to rising juniors, seniors, and recent graduates for a 10-week, full-time research experience. Participants will be engaged in a variety of cardiovascular research and enrichment activities under the guidance of a UH faculty sponsor.

All eligible students are invited to apply! Deadline to apply has been extended to Sunday, March 31. Please also consider applying to our new UH-CURE program .

Applications close on Sunday, March 31, 2024.

Apply Now! Submit Letter of Recommendation

Dr. Bradley McConnell 

Professor of Pharmacology Website

Nature of Work: A summer research experience in the McConnell laboratory would be working with a team of graduate students and postdoctoral fellow to either (1) characterize A-kinase Anchoring Proteins (AKAP) “signalosomes” in β-adrenergic receptor (βAR) mediated signaling, (2) define βAR-mediated “biased” signaling, or (3) investigate reprogrammed cardiac conducting cells for cardiac repair. By addressing clinically significant basic science questions, our overall objective in the McConnell Laboratory is to better understand cardiac signaling mechanisms and towards developing therapeutics for heart repair.

Dr. Renita Horton

Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering Website

Nature of Work: A summer research experience in the Cardiovascular Tissue Engineering Laboratory (CTEL) would focus on designing and building organs-on-chip microdevices and imaging engineered tissues for cardiovascular disease studies. Students will also gain exposure to 3D printing and cell culture techniques for tissue engineering applications.

Dr. Krishna Boini 

Assistant Professor of Pharmacology Website

Nature of Work: A summer research experience in the Boini laboratory would focus on studying obesity-induced Nlrp3 inflammasomes. Inflammasome activation is proposed as a key mechanism responsible for obesity-induced glomerular injury via its inflammatory and non-inflammatory actions. Thus, we will test whether obesity-induced Nlrp3 inflammasome activation contributes to glomerular injury. The findings from our studies will identify new mechanistic insights for targeting inflammasomes to develop novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) in obese patients.

Dr. Yang Zhang, 

Associate Professor of Pharmacology Website

Nature of Work: A summer research experience in the Zhang laboratory will study how an epigenetic enzyme that usually modifies the chromosomal DNA contributes to vascular cell dysfunction and thereby provokes vascular injury and artery hardening in the settings of obesity and diabetes. The molecular mechanisms will focus on the role of this enzyme in the regulation of lysosome function, autophagic flux, and exosomal signaling.

Dr. Preethi Gunaratne

Moores Professor of Biology and Biochemistry Website

Nature of Work: A summer research experience in the Gunaratne laboratory will have two areas of focus: (1) Precision Oncology Platforms focused on Remote Sensing Precancerous Lesion using Single Cell Sequencing and Discovering Actionable Fusions for developing mRNA Vaccines for Cancer Treatment and Prevention. (2) Discovering New Druggable Targets and Biomarkers for Remote Sensing Brain Changes from Opioid Addiction through the microRNA-Regulated Transcriptomic Changes from Drug Abuse. To achieve these goals, her lab has established a functional genomics platform that combines the latest Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics tools with high-throughput functional screens to identify critical drivers of biological networks during development and the perturbation of normal networks in complex diseases.

Dr. Yu Liu 

Associate Professor of Biochemistry Website

Nature of Work: A summer research experience in the Liu laboratory would focus on embryonic and adult stem cell theories and experimental practices. Currently, the Liu lab is using animal models to address how ectopic expression (transgenic) or deletion (knockout) of miR-322/503 affects normal heart function and the outcome of ischemic heart diseases.

Please note that individual research projects may vary from the descriptions due to availability or other factors.

• 3.0 GPA or higher. Extenuating circumstances will be considered
• Rising junior or senior in college, or immediate college graduate
• Be available for full-time participation in the 10-week program
• At the time of application, student must be a United States citizen, or a foreign national holding a student, exchange, or permanent resident visa, including an F-1, H1, H1B, J1, PR, TC or TN visa

A complete application includes:

• One-page Personal Statement on student’s interest in cardiovascular research, future career aspirations, and goals to accomplish in the program.
• Two Recommendation Letters submitted from the reference person through the online submission tab. Applicants must provide recommendation submission link to references. Please title document as “ [Applicant name] AHA 2024 ”
• Updated CV or Resume(PDF)
• Official Transcript(s)(PDF) preferred; unofficial transcripts (PDF) must contain proper identifying information, such as name, university, and semester.  
• All required fields completed

The online application form will open January 2024. Only completed applications, including reference letters, will be reviewed.

The application deadline is Sunday, March 31, 2024.

$6,000 stipend per participant for the ten-week program, with additional optional funding for travel to a national or international conference with a faculty mentor within six months of program completion.

Accepted fellows may elect to stay in  on-campus housing at any of the available facilities at an affordable rate. For additional help, please contact Dr. Tho Tran .

• Full-time participation in research and enrichment activities
• One-page narrative at the end of the program to be submitted to the AHA
• Completion of progression surveys throughout the program and beyond
• Annual update on academic and career activities
• Applications Open: January 2024
• Deadline for Applications and Letters of Recommendation: Sunday, March 31, 2024
• Applicants Notified: Friday, April 12, 2024
• Applicant Reply Deadline: Sunday, April 21, 2024
• Virtual Orientation Week of May 20, 2024
• Program Start: Tuesday, May 28, 2024
• AHA Basic Cardiovascular Sciences Conference: July 22-25, 2024
• Program End: Friday, August 2, 2023  

"From all the protocols, experiments, and facts I learned, what I appreciate the most about this program is the people I met on this journey."

— Robert Flores, University of St. Thomas, 2021 UH-HEART Fellow

About the Program

Established in 2021, the UH-HEART program is dedicated to shaping the upcoming generation of diverse cardiovascular researchers. The program's goals are to offer transdisciplinary research exposure and a toolkit of adaptable skills, preparing students for future careers in cardiovascular-related research. The progress of scientific innovation in cardiovascular research relies on the current training of a diverse community of aspiring scientists, both scientifically and demographically. To inspire promising undergraduates to explore cardiovascular research careers, it is crucial to provide them with robust research experiences that aid in discovering their passions. As societal health challenges become more intricate, instilling a transdisciplinary and collaborative mindset in students is equally important for unlocking innovative solutions.

Notable highlights of the program include a 10-week intensive, hands-on research experience under the guidance of excellent mentors, dedicated professional development training, and a cohort group travel to one of the largest cardiovascular research conferences globally.

BCVS Conference

This summer, the 2024 UH-HEART cohort is set to attend the American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Cardiovascular Scientific (BCVS) Sessions, a premier global conference for cutting-edge cardiovascular research. At this significant event, UH-HEART fellows will engage with other passionate scientists, delving into discussions and presentations on the latest therapeutics for cardiovascular diseases. They will connect with leading researchers in microRNAs, cardiac gene therapy, tissue engineering, and more. Crucially, fellows will forge valuable connections with like-minded colleagues keen on a research career. 

The BCVS is happening in Chicago, Illinois, from July 22 to July 25, and all fellows will have their lodging, travel, and registration expenses covered through their research stipend!

UH-HEART News

AHA Revives UH-HEART Program

Two Biology Students Complete UH-HEART Summer Program

Students Pumped Up for UH-HEART

"Throughout the program, I have had exposure to people with different degrees and paths, and it has been inspiring to hear from them. I have been able to really understand the experience of graduate students as I work alongside them every day in the lab." 

— Asha Ayyar, University of Texas at Austin, 2022

American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. As the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary health organization, the AHA advances groundbreaking research, provides lifesaving resources, and promotes healthier lifestyles.

AHA Summer Research Programs

Cardio SuRPH (Summer Undergraduate Research in Cardiovascular Physiology) Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine

cardioSURF Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia tech Carilion

Cardiovascular Disease and Biomedical Engineering at Purdue/Indiana University Purdue University

LouisVille Undergraduate training Program (LV-UP) University of Louisville - Center for Cardiometabolic Science  

McAllister Heart Institute Summer Undergraduate  Mentoring & Meaningful Experiences in Research University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Penn CVI AHA Summer Undergraduate Fellowship University of Pennsylvania

The Oregon Research and InnovatiON (ORION) Undergraduate Internship Program Orgeon Health & Science University

University of Houston - Houston Experience for Advancing Research and Training (UH-HEART) University of Houston Drug Discovery Institute 

Uniting the Best Minds in Medicine to Drive Life Science Innovation

For over 75 years, TMC has been home to the brightest minds in medicine and life science. Our tradition of excellence continues today with leading academic institutions, top hospitals, visionary start-ups, and industry partners collaborating within our ecosystem to advance health, education, and research. From discovery and development to manufacturing and commercialization, TMC is helping position Houston at the forefront of life science innovation.

NIH Funding in (2020)

clinical trials annually

active start-up life science companies

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Bringing Life-Saving Advancements to Life

Every day, the world-renowned individuals and institutions of TMC and Houston are making strides in the advancement of innovative new therapies. Each inventive discovery represents a critical step toward making patients’ lives not only better, but also longer.

• MD Anderson ushers in new era of immunotherapy
• Transforming neighborhood health by taking health care back to its roots
• Innovative gene expression studies guide congenital heart disease therapy development
• COVID-19’s long-term effect on the lungs, heart, and brain
• Drug factory implants eradiate ovarian, colorectal cancer
• Houston Methodist establishes Johnson Center for Cellular Therapies
• Polaris Program human space flight research

An Infrastructure Built for Collaborative Breakthroughs

The unique infrastructure of TMC provides an environment where collaboration is widespread and welcome. Whether enabling the united efforts of academic leaders and world-class hospitals or the shared vision of emerging start-ups and industry partners, TMC continually fosters collaborative discovery to speed the development of new solutions.

• University of Houston, UT Health, and TIRR Memorial Hermann lead Brain-Controlled Exoskeleton Trials
• Texas Children’s and Baylor College of Medicine bring new hope to women with AUFI
• MD Anderson, THI, and 7 Hills improve effectiveness of immune checkpoint blockage
• Rice Business and MD Anderson launch health care leadership program
• Baylor surgeons and Rice researchers create technology to heal heart attack injuries
• Houston Methodist and Rice launch Neuroprosthetics Collaboration

Industry Partnerships that Turn Visions into Realities

Throughout its history, TMC has leveraged industry partnerships to help ensure the highest quality patient care. Our partnerships extend even further today, with collaborative initiatives that include TMC Helix Park, TMC Innovation Factory, and TMC BioPort. From idea to implementation, we are propelling the commercialization of medical advancements by promoting never-before synergies.

• Resilience and MD Anderson launch joint venture for innovative cell therapies
• BIVACOR, Inc. and THI: One beat closer to Total Artificial Heart use in humans
• Deerfield Management and Baylor collaboratively drive drug discovery
• Ford Motor Company and Rice unite to turn car plastic into graphene
• Volumetric – 3D systems
• Prana Thoracic
• Coya Therapeutics and Houston Methodist partner to slow ALS with Treg Therapy
• ABB , CDI@TMC , JLABS@TMC

A Research Ecosystem Where Sharing Speeds Discovery

Research is at the core of all we do. In addition to the proprietary explorations of TMC Medical Campus institutions, TMC Helix Park enables collaborative translational research and TMC Innovation Factory drives visionary solutions. We also partner with the $6 billion Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) and other critical initiatives. What’s more, the TMC Medical Campus network of our 10 million annual patients are unrivaled in diversity in terms of both socioeconomics and medical challenges. As a result, we are a leader in NIH funding and host more clinical trials than any other US site.

• Neoadjuvant Immunotherapy at MD Anderson improves outlook in High-Risk Melanoma
• NCI awards $10.3 million+ for translational lymphoma research at Baylor, Houston Methodist, and Texas Children’s
• THI treats inflamed hearts with cell therapy to reduce risk of heart attack and stroke
• Rice and MD Anderson deliver one-two punch to leukemia with new drugs
• Novel drug combo from Houston Methodist targets triple-negative breast cancer
• Deep Brain Stimulation effective for treatment-resistant OCD at Baylor.

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UTHealth Houston ranks among best in U.S. in research funding

Written by: Faith Harper | Updated: February 19, 2024

UTHealth Houston is a national leader in National Institutes of Health (NIH) research funding, according to annual rankings released by the Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research.

The annual rankings evaluate institutions, departments, and investigators based on the funding they receive from the NIH over the previous federal fiscal year. See the full list on the   organization’s website .

Three UTHealth Houston schools were ranked No. 1 in Texas, including Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth Houston, UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry, and UTHealth Houston School of Public Health. McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston also ranked highly, with several individual departments ranking No. 1 in Texas as well as in the top 20 in the nation.

“These Blue Ridge Research Institute rankings represent substantial growth in our research enterprise and is possible because of the visionary leadership of our President, and unwavering dedication and hard work of our faculty to improve the health of our community,” said Jagat Narula, MD, PhD, executive vice president and chief academic officer. “The surge in the NIH research funding highlights the collective prowess of UTHealth Houston as a premier academic medical center, showcasing our investigators spanning across all colleges as the trailblazers at advancing the forefront of clinical care and public health practices for the benefit of the state of Texas.”

Cizik School of Nursing

Cizik School of Nursing ranks No. 1 in Texas and No. 18 nationally among nursing schools that received research funding from the NIH in 2023.

The school’s ranking rose 20 positions from No. 38 year over year, with $5.3 million in grants funded by the National Institute for Nursing Research and other NIH institutes.

“Faculty at Cizik School of Nursing research a wide variety of topics with a common goal of improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations,” said   Constance Johnson , PhD, RN, FAAN, associate dean for research at the school. “I am proud to lead a group of stellar nurse scientists who are improving the lives of patients, families, and populations in our local communities and far beyond.”

Read more about the school’s research projects on its   website .

School of Dentistry

The School of Dentistry also ranks No. 1 in Texas, and placed No. 10 nationally among dental schools.

According to the agency, the School of Dentistry reported $7.7 million in research grants funded the National Institute of Health through September 2023.

“The school of dentistry is uniquely suited to be among the top research-focused dental schools in the world,” said Mary "Cindy" Farach-Carson, PhD, associate dean for research and director of Clinical and Translational Research. “Surrounded by the incomparable resources of the Texas Medical Center institutions, our exceptional faculty are poised to tackle the top research challenges in oral health, oral biomaterials and craniofacial biology. Oral health is essential to overall health, thus the opportunity to partner with other UTHealth Houston schools and TMC institutions allows our researchers to successfully compete for funding to provide new tools and solutions to transform oral and overall health care delivery.”

School of Public Health

The School of Public Health also ranked No. 1 in Texas, and placed 15 th   nationally.

According to the agency, the School of Public Health reported $24.8 million in research grants funded by NIH through September 2023.

“Our school of public health has continued to achieve exceptional national rankings, which is a testament to our esteemed faculty's hard work and dedication,” said Susan Tortolero Emery, PhD, SPH, senior associate dean of Academic and Research Affairs. “I am proud to report that our faculty's efforts have resulted in a remarkable 44% increase in NIH funding over the past five years. This impressive growth clearly indicates our faculty's commitment to excellence in public health research.”

McGovern Medical School

Overall, McGovern Medical School placed 53rd nationally in research expenditures, with $112.3 million in NIH funding coming to the school through September 2023.

The rankings also evaluate funding to specific disciplines within the medical school, and five departments moved up into the top 20 in the nation.

“The NIH funding increases we see across McGovern Medical School departments are a direct result of the incredible work by our faculty and research staff,” said Executive Dean John Hancock, MA, MB, BChir, PhD, ScD. “Our research of today translates to the health of tomorrow.”

The Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery ranked No. 4 in the nation, with $18.2 million in NIH funding, and the Department of Neurology placed at No. 17 with $18.3 million. Both ranked as the No. 1 in Texas.

The Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine ranked No. 13 nationally with $7.6 million in funding.

The Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, which Blue Ridge categorizes under physiology, ranked No. 14 with $12.1 million in NIH grants.

The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology ranked No. 17 in the nation with $12.4 million on NIH grants.

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News & Events

Phd candidate explores link between protein intake and health outcomes.

Ji Yun Tark, MPH, a PhD candidate in epidemiology at UTHealth Houston School of Public Health, is investigating the associations between protein consumption and hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD). For Tark, the complex link between nutrition and health outcomes is critical for public health research.

CHPPR and Healthy Futures of Texas Collaborate to Evaluate Impact of Opt-In Sexual Health Education Policy in Texas

CHPPR investigators and Healthy Futures of Texas collaborated to conduct a first-of-its-kind evaluation of a diverse, bipartisan sample of Texas school representatives to determine the impacts of Texas’s new sex education opt-in law, which requires written parental consent for sex education or abuse prevention instruction.

The Buzz on Genome Editing

Diseases transmitted by mosquitoes such as malaria, Zika, and dengue pose significant global public health concerns. Researchers at UTHealth Houston School of Public Health are responding by launching a novel mosquito vivarium to develop genetic strategies for controlling these diseases.  

Study assessing elementary school teachers’ health outcomes and dietary behaviors published

The study found that 32 percent of teachers reported being food insecure, indicating a chronic lack of access to enough food in their household. Teachers consumed less than recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fiber, dairy, and calcium but consumed more sugar than daily recommendations.   

CATCH Healthy Smiles: Transforming Children's Oral Health through Healthy Nutrition and Dental Care

UTHealth Houston School of Public Health's CATCH Healthy Smiles program transforms smiles through nutrition.

Connecting Data Points in Healthcare Management: Juan Nañez

Students in the first cohort of the executive-style MPH in Healthcare Management program in El Paso will graduate in May 2024. Celebrate with us as we share their journeys and explore how they are making an impact on their community.?

Sarnowski and BU School of Public Health Identify Novel Genetic Variants Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease

Data collected from th e study , done in collaboration with Boston University School of Public Health, can inform researchers of specific genetic variants that put people at risk of developing Alzheimer's d isease and tailor future treatment plans.  

MD/MPH: The Perfect Match

Dual-degree students completing their Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Master of Public Health (MPH) at UTHealth Houston School of Public Health reached the pinnacle moment they set their sights on when first entering graduate school.

Meet Carol Huber, DrPH, a School of Public Health alumni and the newest faculty member in San Antonio

The first time Carol Huber looked at the application for a doctoral program she couldn’t even start it. Her two young daughters and a full-time job kept her busy, and the idea of adding anything else to her life made her feel overwhelmed.

Honarvar, second-year MPH student, credits personal experiences for interest in public health.

For Saam Honarvar, life took an unexpected turn when his beloved grandfather died of complications due to diabetes. The turn intersected with public health and Honarvar decided to pursue an MPH in Epidemiology at UTHealth Houston.

NPHW: Alumni Career Panel: Exploring Options in Public Health

12:00:00 PM - 1:30:00 PM WebEx; In-Person; Houston RAS 102A

Dissertation Defense by Shannon S. Kenyon, MBA: The Role of Leadership in the Sustainment of Evidence-based Practice Change

3:30:00 PM - 4:30:00 PM Zoom

Dissertation Proposal Defense by Bailey Perez, MPH, CPH: Building Futures: How the Built Environment, Out-of-School Time Programs,

9:00:00 AM - 10:30:00 AM TEAMS

Thesis Presentation by Saam Honarvar, BS

10:30:00 AM - 11:30:00 AM Bluebonnet classroom - Dallas Trinity Towers 2777 N. Stemmons Freeway, Suite 8400, Dallas, TX 75207

National Public Health Week: Dean's Chat

12:00:00 PM - 1:00:00 PM Please see link for location details

Tucker's Law & Best Practices in Youth Substance Misuse Prevention

1:00:00 PM - 2:00:00 PM GoTo Webinar

Dissertation Defense by John S Finnell, ND, MPH, MS, DiplOM, LAc: The Interdisciplinary Management of Complex Chronic Pain and Comorbid Psychiatric Symptoms in Veteran Populations

2:00:00 PM - 4:00:00 PM Austin Regional Campus Room6.354 (and via WebEx)

Dissertation Defense by Xinyang Jiang: Addressing Subject Heterogeneity in Time-dependent Discrimination for Biomarker Evaluation

3:00:00 PM - 4:30:00 PM WebEx

Dissertation Defense by Layla Haidar, DrPH (c), MPH: Using a Mixed-Methods Approach to Assess and Address Family-Level Influences on Childhood Obesity

4:00:00 PM - 5:30:00 PM Presentation will be held via Teams

Practice Day 2024

10:00:00 AM - 11:00:00 AM RAS Auditorium

Dissertation Defense by Maha Almohamad, MS: Exploring The Complex Relationship Between Food Security, Nutrition Security,

11:00:00 AM - 1:00:00 PM Microsoft Teams

Epidemiology Seminar

12:00:00 PM - 1:00:00 PM via WebEx link ‘https://uthealth.webex.com/join/xianglin.l.du’

Dissertation Defense by Diane Lopez, MPH: Addressing Health Disparities Among Low-Income Hispanics Through a Community Health Work

10:00:00 AM - 11:30:00 AM Webex

32nd James H. Steele, DVM Annual Lecture featuring Rick L. Tarleton, PhD

12:00:00 PM - 1:00:00 PM RAS building, 1st floor auditorium

Dissertation Defense by Joon Kyung Nam, MPH: Using Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) and wearable devices to study e-cigarette

3:00:00 PM - 4:00:00 PM WebEx

Dissertation Defense by Mallika Mathur, MPH: Impacts of sociodemographic factors on age of autism spectrum disorder diagnosis

8:30:00 AM - 10:00:00 AM School of Public Health 1200 Herman Pressler (RAS E-605)

CHW Grassroots & Community Advocacy Day

2:00:00 PM - 5:00:00 PM Hiram Clarke Multiservice Center

Dissertation defense by Hanxiao Sun, BS, MS: A Continuous Local Ancestry Measure for Efficient Local-ancestry-aware Association Te

3:00:00 PM - 5:00:00 PM WebEx

Dissertation Defense by Ji Yun Tark, MPH: Associations of protein intake with risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease

2:00:00 PM - 3:30:00 PM RAS W608

Houston Seminar: National Implementation of an Evidence-based HIV Prevention Program among Bahamian Adolescents

11:30:00 AM - 12:30:00 PM RAS-101, 1200 Pressler St, Houston, TX, 77030

The Impact of Covid-19 on the Relationship Between Adult Medicaid Beneficiary Characteristics and Experience

9:00:00 AM - 10:00:00 AM WebEx

Get to Know a DSHS Program - Center for Health Statistics

3:30:00 PM - 4:30:00 PM Teams

Dissertation Defense by Joonha Chang: Latent Classification of Multi-model Non-homogeneous Continuous-time Markov Chains

1:00:00 PM - 3:00:00 PM RAS E-549, https://uthealth.webex.com/meet/joonha.chang.1

Thesis Presentation by Ashley Gilliam, BS: Investigation of Discrepancies in Oxygen Level Measurements of Traumatic Brain Injury..

1:30:00 PM - 2:30:00 PM Microsoft Teams

Community Health Worker Workshop

8:30:00 AM - 1:00:00 PM 6005 Westview Dr 6005 Westview Drive Houston, TX 77055

UTHealth Houston School of Public Health Admitted Students Day 2024

11:00:00 AM - 1:00:00 PM Virtual

Dissertation Defense by Lauren M. Leining, MPH: Epidemiology of Vector-borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases on TX-MX Border

11:00:00 AM - 1:00:00 PM E-01 or virtual

Dissertation Proposal Defense by Brooklyn Baker, MPH: Underlying Influences of Birthweight Status

2:00:00 PM - 3:00:00 PM Austin Campus - 1616 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701 (UTA 6.362)

Thesis Presentation by L Priya Reddy, MBBS

2:00:00 PM - 3:00:00 PM WebEx

Dissertation Defense by Morgan Jibowu, MPH: Population Dynamics of Medically Important Mosquitoes in Harris County, Texas

2:30:00 PM - 4:00:00 PM 1200 Pressler St, E-705, Houston, TX

Dissertation Proposal Defense by Songmi Lee, MS: Understanding Structural Variations in Alzheimer’s Disease

11:00:00 AM - 12:00:00 PM Brown Foundation Institute Of Molecular Medicine, Room 631

Best Practices in Youth Nutrition Education

12:00:00 PM - 1:00:00 PM Zoom

Uplifting Contextual and Experiential Evidence: Strategies to Strengthen Evidence-Based Decision Making

Seadrift free film screening and panel discussion with director tim tsai.

5:30:00 PM - 7:30:00 PM UTHealth Houston School of Public Health - RAS Auditorium, 1st floor 1200 Pressler, Houston, TX 77040

Greater Houston Maternal Behavioral Health Roundtable :Supporting the Non-Clinical Workforce in Perinatal Behavioral Health

10:00:00 AM - 12:00:00 PM DePelchin Children's Center, 4950 Memorial Dr. Houston, TX 77007

Greater Houston Maternal Behavioral Health Roundtable - "Supporting the Non-Clinical Workforce in Perinatal Behavioral Health"

International symposium on one health research: improving food security and resilience.

8:00:00 AM - 5:00:00 PM Galveston, TX

Training Program: UH Community Health Workers Initiative

8:00:00 AM - 2:00:00 PM University of Houston’s Student Center South, 4455 University Drive Houston, TX 77204-3049

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Delivering Innovative Solutions for the Future

The University of Texas Houston Health Science Center (UTHealth) is recognized internationally as one of the world's great research universities.  UTHealth connects research, education, patient care and outreach in bold, innovative ways.  Basic scientists and clinical researchers from all disciplines work together to deliver innovative solutions that create the best hope for a healthier future.

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Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine

The Future of Medicine is Here

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The Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine is taking a bold and fresh new approach to medical education. The status quo hasn’t improved health. The U.S. spends more on health care than any other developed nation; yet, we have some of the poorest health outcomes.  

To end the downward trend, Fertitta Family College of Medicine is tackling a key contributor to poor health — a shortage of primary care doctors. We will groom students to become primary care physicians who deliver compassionate, high-value care to underserved communities in Houston and Texas.

At the College of Medicine, our focus is on preventing and improving poor health — not simply treating it. Students will receive the highest quality medical training to provide comprehensive health care. By teaching students to address key factors that affect their patients' health — such as food insecurity, the environment and housing — we can help eliminate health disparities in our urban and rural areas.

The future of medicine is here. Come help shape it for a better tomorrow. Join our mission to improve health .

Learn Why Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine is for You

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The College of Medicine received preliminary accreditation status from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education in February 2020.

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Health Matters is a News 88.7 radio series, brought to you by the Fertitta Family College of Medicine, that empowers listeners to lead healthy lives. Host and founding dean Dr. Stephen Spann, along with doctors from the medical school, provide practical health care information to the community.

College of Medicine Total Income Added to Greater Houston

Following LCME approval, the medical school will begin producing doctors who will address Texas’ shortage of primary care physicians and lack of coverage in underserved communities. During its first decade of operation, it’s predicted to generate a $4.13 return for every $1 spent on it.

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University of Houston

Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine, Third Ward Partners Supporting a Healthier Community

March 19, 2024

Humana Institute of the University of Houston Names New Director- Dr. Omolola E. Adepoju

March 18, 2024

Match Madness! University of Houston Medical Students Celebrate Historic ‘Match Day’ by Securing Residency Placements

March 15, 2024

KPRC - Channel 2 News

Houston area medical students discover their future for Match Day

AAFP - American Academy of Family Physicians

Student Driven to Improve Care for Underserved Communities

February 22, 2024

STEM Outreach for Future Doctors and Optometrists

January 24, 2024

Catalysts of Change: Illuminating Health Disparities through Research at the Fertitta Family College of Medicine

January 12, 2024

HEALTH WELCOMES YOU

 helping everyone achieve a lifetime of health (health) center for addictions research and cancer prevention.

Founded in 2020, The HEALTH   ( H elping E veryone A chieve a L ife T ime of H ealth) Center for Addictions Research and Cancer Prevention was established to strategically enhance the University of Houston's (UH) research infrastructure to accelerate scientists’ capacity to conduct cutting-edge research that informs novel prevention, early detection, diagnosis, and intervention strategies that mitigate a broad range of health disparities – with an emphasis on advancing research in alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use (ATOD) and preventing cancer in underserved communities. This national center is funded by the National Institutes of Health/National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities' (NIH/NIMHD) Research Centers in Minority Institutions (RCMI, U54MD015946).

Health-rcmi by the numbers, synergistic cores , uh scientists, community stakeholders, committed to eliminating health disparities, the health center for addictions research and cancer prevention launches at uh.

HEALTH-RCMI Cores at UH

Dynamic Cores that Enhance Institutional Research Capacity

Administrative Core

The Administrative Core (AC) serves as the executive function to provide leadership, centralized management, and oversight. Designed to support the overarching goals of the RCMI at UH, the Administrative Core enhances our infrastructure to advance health-equity science in addictions research and cancer prevention; and increases underrepresented minority (URM) scientists’ productivity, discovery, and funding to pursue innovative research and dissemination activities.

Community Engagement Core

The Community Engagement Core (CEC) maintains a broad-based coalition comprised of service providers, faith-based organizations, community-based organizations, elected officials, stakeholders, and community members. Its framework provides a rare infrastructure for scientists underrepresented in the health sciences to execute high-impact research responsive to community- identified health challenges and feedback. 

Investigator Development Core

The Investigator Development Core (IDC) is a resource-efficient incubator for innovative pilot grants advancing health-equity science. These grants break new ground and provide the preliminary data needed for UH scientists to accelerate their NIH funding portfolios. Moreover, the IDC provides the necessary mentorship and intellectual think-tanks to foster the successful translation of the Pilot Grant Program (PGP) into developmentally appropriate NIH grants.

Research Infrastructure Core

The Research Infrastructure Core (RIC) enhances institutional research capacity across 12 colleges and 28 academic units and provides state-of-the-art services to UH scientists in Research Methodology; Laboratory Techniques and Facilities; Data Management and Biostatistics; Health Informatics; and the Responsible Conduct of Research, Ethics, and Compliance.

Behavioral Science Research Project

African Americans have higher smoking rates than European Americans and are less likely to stop smoking due to stress. Smoking tobacco is one of the leading causes of preventable death and disability and leads to an economic disadvantage for the smokers. The Behavioral Science Research Project (BSRP) is overseeing a two-phase program focusing on helping African Americans quit smoking.

The goal of the  HEALTH Center for Addictions Research and Cancer Prevention  is to establish a national exemplar for how community-engaged research can accelerate scientific breakthroughs that can be rapidly disseminated and implemented directly into targeted communities.

GET INVOLVED

Becoming an affiliate of the HEALTH Center for Additions Research and Cancer Prevention provides access to resources and a broad network of stakeholders who are interested in understanding, mitigating, and ultimately eliminating health disparities.

Postdoctoral fellows and early-stage investigators could also consider joining our Professional Development Program that is designed to provide data-driven group mentoring and professional development programming.

ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT HEALTH EQUITY?

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Research Assistant I (Casual) - Neurology (Stroke)

🔍 texas medical center-houston, texas.

Casual status position available in Neurology (Stroke)

What we do here changes the world. UTHealth Houston is Texas’ resource for healthcare education, innovation, scientific discovery, and excellence in patient care. That’s where you come in.

Once you join us you won't want to leave. It’s because we reward our team for the excellent service they provide. Our total rewards package includes the benefits you’d expect from a top healthcare organization (benefits, insurance, etc.), plus:  

• 100% paid medical premiums for our full-time employees  
• Generous time off (holidays, preventative leave day, both vacation and sick time – all of which equates to around 37-38 days per year) 
• The longer you stay, the more vacation you’ll accrue! 
• Longevity Pay (Monthly payments after two years of service) 
• Build your future with our awesome retirement/pension plan! 

We take care of our employees! As a world-renowned institution, our employees’ wellbeing is important to us. We offer work/life services such as... 

• Free financial and legal counseling 
• Free mental health counseling services 
• Gym membership discounts and access to wellness programs 
• Other employee discounts including entertainment, car rentals, cell phones, etc. 
• Resources for child and elder care 
• Plus many more! 

Position Summary:

Under close direction of senior research staff, conducts activities to support research projects.

Position Key Accountabilities:

• Under close supervision, conducts research activities according to research protocol. Research activities may include some or all of the following: patient recruiting and screening, traditional laboratory experiments and activities, informatics, field interviewer recruiting, screening and training and/or animal laboratories. 
• May maintain clean laboratory equipment and/or work area to ensure a safe and efficient work environment.
• Collects, evaluates, and interprets research data to provide needed information to principal investigators and other researchers. Updates notebooks, records, and databases as needed.
• Stays abreast of new and updated protocols for research department.
• Orders laboratory and/or other supplies as directed by senior research staff.
• As needed, may coordinate the work of laboratory technicians and assistants to ensure efficient, timely and high quality results.
• Complies with all governmental and University policies, rules, regulations, and codes.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Certification/Skills:

General knowledge of research fields.

Minimum Education:

Bachelor’s degree or relevant experience in lieu of education.

Minimum Experience:

No years of experience.

Physical Requirements:

Exerts up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds constantly and/or a negligible amount constantly to move objects.   This position may include work involving potentially hazardous chemical, biological or radioactive agents.

Security Sensitive:

This job class may contain positions that are security sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of Texas Education Code § 51.215

Residency Requirement:

Employees must permanently reside and work in the State of Texas.

If you are looking for a great healthcare career in Houston, visit http://go.uth.edu/careers !

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Learn the ins and outs related to research at UH through contracts, compliance, intellectual property, and animal care.

Office of Contracts and Grants (OCG)

The OCG assists faculty in obtaining external funding to support their creative and scholarly activities. As such, OCG plays a role in helping UH fulfill its research, instruction and public service missions. In conjunction with college staff, OCG is tasked with the administrative and financial management of awards.

Research Integrity and Oversight (RIO) Office

The Research Integrity and Oversight (RIO) Office is committed to the support and education of the UH research community in all areas of compliance with federal regulations concerning human subjects , animal subjects , conflicts of interest , grant congruency , and responsible conduct of research .

Technology Transfer and Innovation

The Office of Technology Transfer and Innovation (OTTI) manages patents, copyrights and trademarks, and works with faculty and the Intellectual Property Committee to file patents for inventions. The office also acts as the industry's gateway to innovation at the University of Houston, uniting UH with start-ups, midsize companies, large corporations and non-profit organizations to bring university discoveries to the marketplace. OTTI oversees the IP Committee, Technology GAP Fund and the Innovation Center and Labs .

Animal Care Operations (ACO)

ACO provides professional veterinary and husbandry services to support animals used in biomedical and behavioral research, including the maintenance of standards for animals, facilities, equipment and procedures. ACO provides such services to faculty, such as animal procurement, training, veterinary consultation in research design, transportation of animals and veterinary care. ACO also provides professional veterinary medical, husbandry and proposal review services to support animals used in biomedical research.

Strategic Research Communications

Strategic Research Communications is responsible for raising the visibility of UH research and innovation programs nationally, among peer institutions and throughout Houston’s regional industry. In addition, the team manages programs to engage UH researchers and inventors, and supports the Division of Research business communications.