We are excited to announce the launch of the Behavioral Research Center for HIV (BIRCH) at the University of Washington. This developmental Center, funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, will provide infrastructure and support for high-impact science on HIV and mental health and a research home for like-minded scholars. The Center will emphasize interdisciplinary research on the behavioral aspects of the epidemic, especially how we can better integrate mental health treatment into HIV prevention and treatment strategies. In addition, the Center will offer technical assistance, training, and pilot funding as well as nurture the next generation of diverse HIV researchers through training and mentorship. The goal is to facilitate the dissemination of the latest advances, not just within academic circles, but to HIV service providers, affected communities, and policymakers as well.

BIRCH is led by Pamela Collins, MD, MPH, Susan Graham, MD, MPH, PhD, and Jane Simoni, PhD, with support from Deepa Rao, PhD, MA, (Developmental Core Director), Lydia Chwastiak, MD, MPH, (Integrated Care Core Director), and Brian Flaherty, PhD (Methods Core Director). The Center is supported by Administrative Director Susan Mello and Program Manager Tessa Concepcion. UW BIRCH will prioritize partnerships with our university, community, and global partners, without whose support we cannot succeed. We look forward to working closely with our partners and building this Center together. Bookmark the UW BIRCH website and follow the center on Twitter (@uwbirch) to stay connected!