Rick S. Zimmerman

Rick S. Zimmerman, PhD, is a distinguished Professor and the Associate Dean for Research at the Wayne State University College of Nursing. With a robust background in medical sociology, Dr. Zimmerman has carved a niche for himself as a prevention scientist. His research primarily revolves around behavior change models, with a keen focus on HIV/STD prevention, teen pregnancy prevention, and enhancing the accuracy of self-reported sensitive behaviors. Dr. Zimmerman's current research endeavors are both innovative and impactful. He is at the forefront of developing a micro-economic intervention aimed at reducing HIV and violence among transgender women, a project that has garnered support from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Additionally, he is involved in evaluating programs dedicated to substance use disorder and HIV prevention and treatment, with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Throughout his career, Dr. Zimmerman has made significant contributions to the academic community, evidenced by his extensive publication record in peer-reviewed journals. His work has not gone unnoticed, earning him accolades such as the Researcher of the Year award in 2001 at the University of Kentucky. His research not only advances scientific knowledge but also has practical implications for public health interventions. In addition to his research, Dr. Zimmerman is deeply committed to education. He teaches courses in population health, scientific writing, and statistics in nursing, where he shares his expertise and passion for research with the next generation of healthcare professionals. His teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of integrating research with practice to address real-world health challenges. Dr. Zimmerman's dedication to his field is reflected in his ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between research and practice. His work continues to influence policy and practice in public health, particularly in areas related to HIV/STD prevention and behavior change. As a leader in his field, he remains committed to advancing knowledge and improving health outcomes through rigorous research and education.