Advancing Health
The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy is committed to playing an active role in advancing human health and translating research into real-world impact. This webpage highlights two core areas where the college is driving meaningful advancements: research discovery and community engagement. Our researchers are tackling critical disease states and offering donors a unique opportunity to partner with us in developing innovative, life-changing therapies. At the same time, our community-based initiatives create powerful opportunities to improve patient outcomes and promote public health. We invite you to explore these high-impact efforts and join us in shaping a healthier future for today’s communities and generations to come.
Samuel Poloyac, Pharm.D, Ph.D.
Dean, James T. Doluisio Regents Chair
Research Discovery
Healthcare Innovation Endowment
Support for this endowment empowers researchers to pursue high-risk, high-reward projects aimed at developing new drugs for the treatment of diseases. External funding accelerates the path from discovery to real-world, translational impact.
Health Outcomes & Underserved Populations
Address population health and individual patient care by supporting research and programs that improve the daily lives of those we serve. Current efforts include innovative initiatives like providing cell phones to individuals experiencing homelessness, helping them access critical health services and stay connected to care.
Cancer, Obesity & Diabetes
Communities around the world continue to be deeply affected by cancer, obesity and diabetes. Our research focuses on developing therapies that disrupt the links between these diseases, aiming to improve outcomes and transform lives.
Neurodegeneration, Brain Disorders & Substance Abuse
Neurodegeneration, brain disorders and substance abuse continue to pose urgent and complex public health challenges. At the College of Pharmacy, faculty researchers are advancing scientific understanding and driving the development of new treatments in these critical areas.
Drug Delivery & Infectious Diseases
The key to effective drug therapy with less side effects is delivering it precisely where it is needed. This is especially critical in treating infection. Our researchers are pioneering novel inhaled drug delivery systems that target lung infections directly, improving patient outcomes and recovery.
Research Examples
Drug Delivery - Thin Film Technology
Dr. Maria Croyle is pioneering the development of thin film drug delivery—a small, translucent strip capable of storing vaccines and other therapeutics at room temperature for up to three years. This groundbreaking technology has the potential to eliminate the need for refrigeration, dramatically expanding access to lifesaving treatments in resource-limited settings and communities around the world.
Cancer & Obesity
Dr. John DiGiovanni’s research aims to better understand how cancer develops and to identify strategies for its prevention, with a strong focus on translating discoveries into effective pharmacotherapies. His work also explores how obesity, particularly early-life obesity, affects cancer risk and progression, offering critical insights into how these two major health challenges are connected.
Community Engagement
Health Interprofessional Practice & Education Center
The HIPE Center provides interdisciplinary training across the College of Pharmacy, School of Nursing, and Dell Medical School to prepare students for collaborative, team-based care. By supporting this initiative, you help shape the future of healthcare, where coordinated, patient-centered care leads to better outcomes for all.
Health Care Access
The College of Pharmacy is actively involved in community-based initiatives, including health screenings, medication counseling and public health education. At the same time, we’re leading statewide and national efforts to expand pharmacist access to medical records—an essential step toward improving coordinated care. Philanthropic support in this area will be truly transformational, positioning the College of Pharmacy and the University of Texas at Austin as national leaders in expanding health care access for all communities.
Pharmacy Contacts
Antonio Burns, MBA
Chief Development Officer
Phone: 315-391-7388
Email: antonio.burns@austin.utexas.edu
Brynn Huysman, MS
Senior Director, Principal Gifts, Corporate and Foundation Relations
Phone: 863-227-6094
Email: brynn.huysman@austin.utexas.edu