Research at PEAR
The Center for Participatory, Prevention, Evaluation, Action, and Research (PEAR) builds on a 30+ year legacy of community-engaged public health research through the Arizona Prevention Research Center (AzPRC). As one of the longest-standing centers in the CDC’s national Prevention Research Center (PRC) network, our work advances equity-driven research and evaluation.
Our Research Approach
PEAR specializes in community-based participatory research (CBPR) and participatory evaluation, grounded in collaboration with local organizations, public health systems, and academic partners. We focus on prevention, health equity, and systems change—ensuring that research is relevant, co-created, and action-oriented.
Core Research Areas
Our projects span a wide range of public health priorities:
- Chronic disease prevention and health promotion
- Social and structural determinants of health
- Health equity and community resilience
- Intergenerational health and community well-being
- Participatory evaluation and implementation research
Signature Initiatives
- Arizona Prevention Research Center (AzPRC): A CDC-funded PRC dedicated to improving health in border communities through participatory research, long-term partnerships, and applied prevention science.
- Special Interest Projects (SIPs): CDC-funded projects that allow PEAR faculty and collaborators to respond to emerging public health issues, pilot interventions, and test innovative strategies in real-world settings.
- Participatory Evaluation Institute (PEI): A core initiative of the College of Public Health team at PEAR, the PEI provides participatory evaluation support to community-based organizations, coalitions, and local health systems across Arizona. The team works through long-term relationships and sub-awards to co-design evaluation plans, build capacity, and ensure data is used for learning, advocacy, and decision-making.
Research Impact
PEAR’s research is rooted in long-standing partnerships with communities, health systems, and public health practitioners. Our faculty and staff lead and support a wide range of projects funded by federal, state, and local agencies, as well as community organizations and foundations. These efforts have helped shape policies, improve program delivery, and build capacity for community-led health initiatives across Arizona and beyond.
We prioritize work that is practical, equity-centered, and grounded in the lived experiences of the communities we serve. By combining academic rigor with participatory approaches, our research generates real-world solutions and meaningful impact.