Indiana University researcher Stephen Boehm has been named the inaugural executive director of the Institute for Human Health and Wellbeing at IU Indianapolis, part of IU’s $250 million investment to advance scientific discoveries aimed at curing and treating diseases and improving human health.
Boehm, a professor and Department of Psychology chair in the School of Science at IU Indianapolis and primary faculty in the Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, is a leading researcher with decades of experience studying the neuroscience of addiction. Under his leadership, the Institute for Human Health and Wellbeing will pursue high-impact research aligned with the goals of the IU 2030 strategic plan.
“I am delighted to welcome Dr. Stephen Boehm to his new role as the executive director of the Institute for Human Health and Wellbeing,” IU Indianapolis Chancellor Latha Ramchand said. “As chair of the psychology department, an investigator at the Stark Neurosciences Research Institute and a longtime faculty member in the School of Science, Dr. Boehm brings his expertise in developmental psychology and genetics as well as his deep knowledge of our campus. All of this positions him well to provide leadership and vision that will foster transformative research and collaboration with central Indiana’s life sciences community and result in the improved health and well-being of all Hoosiers.”
The institute will operate at the intersection of health, life sciences and technology to meet community needs and improve health outcomes across the state. Working with industry and community partners, it will expand IU Indianapolis’ efforts to translate research and creative activity that meet Hoosiers’ most critical health challenges. This includes the pursuit of community-engaged research focused on health equity and using artificial intelligence to support the screening and detection of chronic diseases.
“I am deeply excited about this opportunity to drive innovative research, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and engage with industry and community partners across Indiana to make a meaningful impact on public health in Indiana and beyond,” Boehm said. “The broader mission of the institute is to address some of the most pressing health challenges of our time, and I am eager to work alongside my colleagues at IU to advance this important work. Together, we will strive to improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities.”
Interdisciplinary teams will address complex health issues, particularly in the area of health disparities, and promote mental and physical well-being. The institute will build on IU’s existing research strengths, with the potential for immediate growth in areas such as early detection of chronic disease, physical activity and health monitoring, and health economics.
“The Institute for Human Health and Wellbeing will become a leading force in advancing health and well-being through innovative research, education and community engagement,” Boehm said. “By leveraging the strengths of Indiana University and our partners, we will aspire to influence health policies, develop transformative solutions and empower people to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.”
Boehm has been with the School of Science since 2009. His research lab focuses on the brain and behavioral impacts of binge alcohol drinking and, more recently, opioid and cannabis use. His work has generated over 70 peer-reviewed publications, and he has been continuously funded by the NIH National Institute on Alcohol Use and Alcoholism since coming to IU — winning over $5.75 million in external and internal grants to advance his research over this time.
“Stephen Boehm has a proven track record of pursuing research that positively impacts the health and well-being of Hoosiers,” said Phaedra Corso, IU associate vice president for research and vice chancellor for research at IU Indianapolis. “Under his direction, the Institute for Human Health and Wellbeing will be a leader in tackling critical challenges facing human health at both the individual and global scale. It will work in collaboration with IU Indianapolis’ other research institutes to make a significant economic and societal impact on our state.”
Boehm earned a Ph.D. in behavioral neuroscience from the Oregon Health & Science University and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Texas at Austin. He earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Northern Colorado.
