The School of Human Environmental Sciences is pleased to re-launch the Research Center for Families and Children. Originally established in the 1990’s, the Center published research briefs, secured grants and worked with faculty to publish research in peer-reviewed journals. Moving forward, the Center will continue these goals and work to enhance the research culture in the School of Human Environmental Sciences.

Dr. Janet Kurzynske, Professor, Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, is providing leadership for the reemergence of the Center. She shared, “The Research Center for Families and Children will emphasize multi-disciplinary research involving the disciplines within the School. We want to provide support for collaborative work and will work to enhance the research infrastructure.”

The Center will engage undergraduate students in research early in their academic career. Undergraduates in all HES majors will have the opportunity to participate as research subjects. Additionally, a limited number of undergraduates will have the opportunity to work alongside faculty in conducting research.

To date, two collaborative teams connected to the Center have been initiated. One multidisciplinary team is investigating financial and health literacy. The second team is engaged in a multistate project addressing childhood obesity. The Center will also work with departments to recruit and host visiting scholars, with the first scholar arriving on-campus in March.

With the myriad of research issues related to human environmental sciences, the Research Center for Families and Children will serve as a conduit to build and strengthen the research portfolio in the School of Human Environmental Sciences. For more information about the Center, contact Dr. Janet Kurzynske.

Posted 3/14/13