Research

The IMPACT Program conducts translational research on LGBT Health and Development. By “translational,” we mean that we seek to identify health issues, understand factors that put people at risk or protect them, and turn that knowledge into programs that advance the health of LGBT people and communities. Most of our projects focus on sexual health, which we believe includes not only the absence of diseases like HIV, but also understanding and accepting one’s sexual orientation and gender identity and having healthy relationships. We also study resiliency, mental health, and substance use, with a primary focus on adolescents and young adults. “Translate” also means that we try to explain some of the fascinating but complicated language of science into lessons that everyone can benefit from. That’s one of the main reasons we made this webpage. The study of LGBT development is also part of our mission. We seek to understand how sexual orientation and gender identity develop, because we believe they are core parts of human identity and worthy of understanding. The IMPACT program actively collaborates with community based organizations. We feel privileged to have been awarded over $7 million in research funding from the National Institute of Health and major foundations such as the William T Grant Foundation and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.