Regenstrief Institute Research Scientist Nicole Fowler, PhD, MHSA, has been appointed the vice chair for research at the Indiana University School of Medicine Department of Medicine. She began her duties on January 1, 2025. Dr. Fowler brings more than 15 years of experience in innovative research and academic leadership.
She currently serves as research scientist in the IU Center for Aging Research at Regenstrief Institute, a scientist with the Center for Health Innovation and Implementation Science at IU, and an associate professor of medicine in the division of general internal medicine and geriatrics.
In transitioning to this new role, Dr. Fowler is relinquishing her role as associate director of IU CAR at Regenstrief. As an associate director over the last 5 and a half years, she has supported research scientists and staff as a mentor, leader and supervisor.
In 2021, Dr. Fowler became the inaugural director of research for the division of general internal medicine and geriatrics, where she has overseen a research portfolio exceeding $20 million.
Dr. Fowler is an applied health services researcher with particular interest in improving the organization and delivery of health services for older adults living with complex health and social care needs, in particular, people living with dementia and their family caregivers. She has designed and conducted multiple trials in the areas of nonpharmacologic approaches in dementia care, family caregiving and medical decision making for older adults with cognitive impairment.
In addition to her research accomplishments, Dr. Fowler is a dedicated educator and mentor, guiding junior faculty and trainees. She also co-directs the MD-PhD training program in social and behavioral research in Alzheimer’s disease at the IU School of Medicine.
As vice chair for research, Dr. Fowler will oversee the department’s research strategy, foster collaborations across divisions and create opportunities to support junior faculty in launching successful research careers.
Nicole Fowler, PhD, MHSA
In addition to her role as a research scientist at the Indiana University Center for Aging Research at Regenstrief Institute, Nicole R. Fowler, PhD, MHSA, is an associate professor and vice chair for research, Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, the Indiana University School of Medicine and a scientist in the Center for Health Innovation and Implementation Science at Indiana University.
