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SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH

As social scientists and public health experts, we are committed to conducting research that can be used to advance scientific knowledge, inform public opinion and improve the ability of organizations and governments to address public health needs worldwide.  We conduct academic, applied and clinical research that describes phenomena, examines relationships and assesses causality.

We have cross disciplinary expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies (e.g., anthropology, psychology, sociology, social epidemiology, political science), and have content expertise in a wide range of public health issues, including racial and socioeconomic health disparities; infant and child health; nutrition; bioterrorism; disabilities; HIV/AIDS; and chronic, infectious, and emerging diseases.  We collaborate with clients on any and all steps of the research process─ from determining appropriate research questions to reporting results.  Specifically, SRA works with clients to:

  • Formulate a research plan and select the study design.  What is the purpose of your research?  Who will use the information?  What information do you need?  Which study design is most appropriate and feasible (e.g., experimental, quasi-experimental, case study approach) based on your budget, resources and timeline?  How will you collect, analyze, and report information?  What is the timeline for research?  A well-conceived plan and study design ensures that information obtained from research is thorough, valid and relevant. 
  • Conceptualize and operationalize variables.  The conceptualization of research questions of interest and their operationalization for measurement purposes are among the most important steps in the research process.  Once research questions are identified, SRA works with clients to define and measure concepts and variables.  SRA works with clients to ensure that research variables yield the most comprehensive data possible, while maintaining a high level of measurement reliability and validity. 
  • Collect data.  Based on the information needed and the resources available, we determine an appropriate data collection strategy.  Methods we use include document reviews, standardized assessments, surveys, focus groups, in-depth interviews, ethnographic observation and data extraction from existing datasets.  Additionally, we offer expertise in developing and validating surveys, interview protocols and other data collection tools.
  • Analyze data.  SRA’s associates are proficient in both quantitative and qualitative data analysis.  We are skilled in advanced quantitative analytic methodologies, including multiple linear and logistic regression analysis, factor analysis and hierarchical linear modeling, using software including SAS, SPSS, MLwiN, and HLM.  We also employ sophisticated qualitative research methods to glean findings from interview narratives, focus groups and other forms of qualitative data.

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With very short notice, SRA-NYC  was willing to go anywhere in the world, and in every assignment exceeded our expetations.  They executed our emergency health communicaiton and surveillance tasks with excellence, despite very difficult circumstances.

Galen Cole, Ph.D., MPH
Former Chief, National Center for Health Marketing
U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)