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. 

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

Research focus areas span basic biomedical science, community-based implementation strategies, mental and behavioral health, and substance use and abuse.