KEY ACTIVITIES

HIV Center research has resulted in three key types of contribution: (1) development of comprehensive, contextually specific, and interdisciplinary methodological approaches; (2) scholarly contributions to the biomedical and public health literature; and (3) training and information dissemination for communities locally, nationally, and internationally.

The HIV Center has developed approaches allowing us to comprehensively explore the context of individuals' lives. For example, our investigations of children and adolescents focus both on their stage of psychosocial and psychosexual development on the context provided by their family units and wider communities. Our studies with women take into consideration their relationships with their male partners, questions of pregnancy, and family life. In light of this need for comprehensive and contextual approaches, HIV Center researchers integrated qualitative and quantitative methodologies in the development and evaluation of interventions tailored to a wide variety of populations.

From the outset, the Center has had a commitment to interdisciplinary research, drawing upon the most relevant theories and methods from fields as diverse as psychiatry, psychology, public health, sociology, social work, neurology, biochemistry, and anthropology.

Lines of investigation launched at the HIV Center have contributed significantly to the shape of the HIV/AIDS research agenda in the US and abroad. Among the pioneering areas of HIV Center research have been the development of gender-specific interventions; short- and long-term sexual risk reduction among women that include methods under women's control; questions of ethics and policy; issues relating to children, families, and adolescents; HIV prevention among people with severe mental illness; and serodiscordant relationships as the context for risk reduction and coping with HIV infection. Our work has resulted in more than 700 publications that have both contributed to our body of knowledge and influenced clinical care, treatment, and services for HIV-positive and at-risk populations.

Since 1987, HIV Center researchers have responded to the prevention, care, and clinical treatment needs of individuals and communities. Thus, much of our work is conducted with populations – especially women and members of ethnic and racial minority groups – that reflect the evolving HIV/AIDS epidemic in our home city of New York.

The HIV Center has established alliances with many community based organizations in New York City, both to partner in conducting research and to provide information dissemination and training. Our weekly Grand Rounds series, held since 1987, draws representatives of CBOs, basic scientists, clinicians, and care givers. The HIV Center Newsletter is a resource for dissemination of research results, discussion of ethical issues, and updates on the national and international issues that affect our work. In March 2007, the Newsletter became the E-Newsletter, reaching subscribers by email.

The HIV Center's international agenda particularly focuses on South Africa, Namibia, and Brazil, where we have established partnerships and research initiatives. At the same time, we are expanding to other regions, such as Nigeria, China, India, and Mexico, with feasibility, pilot, and training programs.