The HEALTH Research Institute was established in 2017 to advance innovative research in health for Houston communities and beyond. HRI is focused on developing rapid translation models to bring basic biomedical science into prevention, early detection, diagnosis, and intervention strategies through partnerships with community-based organizations, healthcare agencies, stakeholders, and community members. 

HRI leverages an interdisciplinary group of researchers at the University of Houston to conduct cutting-edge research across a broad range of health challenges. 

The HEALTH Research Institute houses the HEALTH Center for Addictions Research and Cancer Prevention, funded by NIMHD.