More than 40 health-focused researchers, physicians, and advanced practice providers met this week to take the first steps in organizing the newest UI-Carle health research group. The Illinois-Carle Digestive Health Research Group is forming to combine Carle’s expertise in gastroenterology and digestive health with Illinois research strengths in nutrition, obesity, the human microbiome, and more.
While individuals from each institution have teamed up on a project or two in the past, Carle’s renewed commitment to a ‘culture of research’ is catalyzing collaborative digestive health research efforts, said longtime Carle gastroenterologist Dr. Eugene Greenberg.
The Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Initiative (IHSI) has been instrumental in identifying cross-campus research strengths around health challenges of the digestive system. IHSI has taken the lead on facilitating this interdisciplinary clinical and translational research group.
In a lightning talk-style format, the Digestive Health Meet and Greet event had several Carle physicians and Illinois researchers share overviews of their research interests with the larger group. Afterward, these clinicians and faculty were able to connect and start conversations about new research activity.
Jennifer Eardley, IHSI Director of Strategic Clinical Partnerships, said the eager group of investigators and providers gathered was very encouraging. Currently, there are more than 20 clinical studies in digestive health active at Carle, with the potential for many more.
“There is research infrastructure functioning in the Carle Digestive Health Center now, as never before,” Eardley said.
Over the next few months, the Digestive Health Research Group plans to determine next steps, which may include creating a joint steering committee and outlining goals. If you have any questions or want to get involved with this group, contact Maggie Berg Miller at meberg@illinois.edu.