Welcome to CHIRP
The Center for Health Inclusion, Research and Practice (CHIRP) focuses on closing the gaps in systematic health disparities that adversely affect people from historically marginalized groups, including those living in poverty, people of color, and those with disabilities.

CHIRP’s Mission
CHIRP seeks to improve inclusive health equity through interdisciplinary lines of research, dedicated teaching and mentorship, and integrated community engagement.
One of Merrimack College’s Agenda for the Future core strategic approaches is an emphasis on growth, particularly as it concerns expanding and enhancing our College’s research practices. In support of that key objective, Merrimack’s research centers facilitate faculty research and provide opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to contribute to the advancement of basic science, the design of practical applications, and the evaluation and shaping of public policy.
Meet the Founding Researchers
Meet Drs. Leena Bharath, April Bowling and Juliana Cohen.
The team discusses the origins of CHIRP and how the Center will contribute to innovative health disparities research, community engagement and educational opportunities at Merrimack College.
Research and Resources
One of the aims of CHIRP is to present our evidence-based research in language that is accessible and comprehensible to the communities we are working with. Academic papers and briefs can be found on our individual lab websites, and our latest communications for general audiences can be found below.
View Research at Merrimack Magazine: Insights and Innovations