impact image

Social and Behavioral

Social and behavioral research investigates human behavior, attitudes, and interactions across diverse contexts, drawing from psychology, sociology, anthropology, and public health. By employing various methodologies, researchers explore individual and collective behaviors to inform interventions addressing public health challenges and promoting positive social change, ultimately contributing to more equitable and inclusive societies.

Social and Behavioral Research Faculty Directory

Please click on the + sign to expand each section to learn more.
  •   Randy Clinch, D.O.

    Profile Photo Dr. Randy Clinch

    Professor of Family Medicine

    •   Research and Scholarly Activity Interests
      • Best Practices in HIV care among people experiencing homelessness.
      • Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) among people experiencing homelessness.
    •   Contact Information

      WKNOX Bldg 1

      Phone: 865-338-5794
      Office Location: 168
      Email: charles.clinch@lmunet.edu

  •   Danielle Darter, M.D.

    Dr. Danielle Darter Profile Photo

    Assistant Professor Family Medicine

    •   Research and Scholarly Activity Interests
      • Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on academic performance.
      • Trauma-informed education.
    •   Contact Information

      WKNOX Bldg 1

      Phone: 865-338-5689
      Office Location: 165
      Email: danielle.darter@lmunet.edu

  •   Gina DeFranco, D.O.

    Chair of Family Medicine

    Associate Professor of Family Medicine

    •   Research and Scholarly Activity Interests
      • Empathy and communication
    •   Contact Information

      WKNOX Bldg 1

      Phone: 865-338-5700
      Office Location: 166
      Email: gina.defranco@lmunet.edu

  •   Beverly Hamilton, Ph.D.

    Profile Photo Dr. Beverly Hamilton

    Assistant Dean of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

    Program Director, Master of Science Programs

    Professor of Microbiology

    •   Research and Scholarly Activity Interest
      • Health Equity in marginalized populations
      •  Reproductive health disparities
      • Implicit bias in healthcare
  •   Sherry Jimenez, Ed.D.

    Dr. Sherry Jimenez Profile Picture

    Senior Associate Dean of IPE, Simulation, & Accreditation

    Associate Professor of Medical Education

    •   Research and Scholarly Activity Interests
      • Communication and teamwork among health professionals
      • COVID-19 related patient bias
    •   Contact Information

      WKNOX Bldg 1

      Phone: 423.869.6547
      Office Location: DCOMK 183
      Email: sherry.jimenez@lmunet.edu

  •   Lindsey Miller, Ph.D.

    Profile Photo Dr. Lindsey Miller

    Director of Research, DCOM Knoxville

    Associate Professor of Physiology

    •   Research and Scholarly Activity Interests
      • Habits and health behaviors of night-shift nurses.
    •   Contact Information

      WKNOX Bldg 1

      Phone: 865-338-5720
      Office Location: 235
      Email: lindsey.miller@lmunet.edu