About Our Program

As a research center embedded within Kaiser Permanente’s large and dynamic health care system, our investigators have a unique opportunity to apply scientific expertise to real-world clinical problems, translate findings into practice, and share what we learn with the broader community.

Featured Scientist

Steve Lee, DO, Vice Area Research Chair for San Bernardino County
Steve S. Lee, DO
Principal Investigator
Fontana
Rheumatology
Clinical.Trials@kp.org

Dr. Steve Lee is a rheumatologist at the Kaiser Permanente Fontana Medical Center. He is vice area research chair for San Bernardino County on the Southern California Permanente Medical Group’s Regional Research Committee.

After completing training in internal medicine and rheumatology, Dr. Lee furthered his interests in clinical research with the Southern California Permanente Medical Group, serving as a principal investigator on clinical trials for rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, giant ...

Featured Video

Research showing value of exercise before COVID-19 diagnosis earns special recognition

Being active can lower your risk of getting seriously ill with COVID, regardless of your race or the chronic conditions you may have, according to research published last year in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.

The Kaiser Permanente Southern California findings were important, impactful, and influential. As a result, the journal editors chose the research article, “Associations of Physical Inactivity and COVID-19 Outcomes Among Subgroups,” as the American Journal of Preventive Medicine 2023 Article of the Year.

News

Featured Image of News Story Titled: Education-focused diabetes care linked to better blood sugar control

Education-focused diabetes care linked to better blood sugar control

A large study conducted within Kaiser Permanente Southern California found that people with type 2 diabetes who primarily received diabetes self-management education and support were more likely to achieve healthy blood sugar levels than those whose care focused mainly on physician visits. “For people living with type 2 diabetes, this study shows that actively participating ...

Nurses in research: Beatriz Alviso advances patient-centered science

This week, Nurses Week (May 6-12, 2026), we honor all the nurses who work within the Department of Research & Evaluation, who are a vital part of our research. Here we highlight Beatriz Alviso, RN, PHN, BSN who works in the Division of Health Services Research & Implementation Science. What is your background? I grew up ...

Nurses in research: Christina Flores builds trust and understanding in vaccine studies

This week, Nurses Week (May 6-12, 2026), we honor all the nurses who work within the Department of Research & Evaluation, who are a vital part of our research. Here we highlight Christina Flores, LVN, who works in vaccine and infectious disease clinical trials. What is your background? I grew up in Highland Park, California, and ...

Nurses in research: Sara Ruiz supports pediatric patients through clinical trials

This week, Nurses Week (May 6-12, 2026), we honor all the nurses who work within the Department of Research & Evaluation, who are a vital part of our research. Here we highlight Sara Ruiz, BSN, RN, PHN, who works in bone marrow transplant and pediatric clinical trials. What is your background? I grew up in Texas, ...

When more isn’t more: Smaller restaurant portions left diners just as full

Restaurants in the United States are known for generous portions, often serving far more food than most adults need in a single meal. Those oversized portions have long been linked to overeating and, over time, to higher rates of obesity and chronic disease. A new study conducted in real restaurants suggests there may be a ...

Events

Featured Division

Epidemiologic Research

Our epidemiologists seek answers to important health questions with real-world clinical relevance.

Investigators with the Division of Epidemiologic Research apply rigorous research methods to address important health questions that have the potential to change clinical practice and health care delivery. The division’s research portfolio spans the care continuum, from etiology and prevention to survivorship and quality of life.

Division investigators have expertise in traditional epidemiologic studies, post-marketing safety and effectiveness studies, and outcomes research. Current research areas include cancer, cardiovascular disease, COVID-19, diabetes, infectious disease, molecular epidemiology, orthopedics and bone health, perinatal health, pharmacoepidemiology, and vaccines.