Research
Research is a dynamic and important component of PhD education. Faculty of the University of Utah Hartford Center of Geriatric Nursing Excellence have a breadth and depth research interests. Finding a faculty member with research interests similar to your own is an important consideration when selecting a PhD program. PhD students will have the opportunity to work and study with nationally known researchers.
Executive Director Ginette A. Pepper PhD, RN, FAAN, Professor and Associate Dean for Research and PhD Program, holds the Helen Bamberger Colby Endowed Chair in Gerontological Nursing. The nation's first geriatric nurse practitioner, Dr. Pepper received her PhD in Nursing and Geriatric Pharmacology and has taught research, geriatric nursing, and pharmacology for over 25 years. Her federally funded research has focused on pain management in nursing homes, medication-related falls, adverse drug effects, and medication administration safety. In 2007, she completed an NIH summer fellowship focusing on genetics of aging.
Associate Director for Education and Practice Patricia Berry PhD, APRN, GNP-BC, ACHPN received her master's training as a geriatric nurse practitioner and earned a PhD in human development and family studies. An active practitioner, Dr. Berry is known nationally for her expertise in pain in institutionalized elderly, palliative and end-of-life care, and innovative approaches to teaching geriatric nursing.
In addition to the College of Nursing faculty listed on the table below, students have the opportunity to study and work with faculty and professionals who are members of the University of Utah Center on Aging. Interdisciplinary collaboration is encouraged and supported.
