The SHEER Lab’s research interests include sexual and reproductive health, contextual drivers of health, infectious disease epidemiology, and research ethics.
Makella S. Coudray, PhD, MPH, CPH
Director and Principal Investigator
Projects at a Glance
Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing Risk and Prevention (STRiP)
There is a noted paucity of literature examining non-HIV STIs. Expanded efforts are needed to explore new STI screening options to increase STI testing rates and examine the relationship between the individual, interpersonal and community factors and STI risk. Thus, this study aims to examine STI testing, treatment and prevention preferences.
The original study aims have been adapted since NIH funding for this research has been cut. Interested in supporting this research? We plan to start recruitment for our pilot in Spring 2025. Please reach out to Makella.Coudray@ucf.edu
Fostering Integrity in Research on ethical data use and privacy (fIRED UP)
FIRED UP addresses the ethical considerations of collecting and integrating network data for HIV/STI and drug abuse research among women. It aims to evaluate privacy concerns, assess women’s perspectives on data handling by researchers, and examine the impact of sociopolitical climates on their participation in research. The findings will guide ethical research practices and enhance women’s trust and involvement in HIV/STI and drug abuse research efforts.
FIRED UP will be recruiting participants for Spring 2025.
Sexual Health Education Empowerment and Knowledge
(SHEEK)
SHEEK aims to examine college students’ perceptions of their sexual health. The study seeks to understand the decision-making processes related to sexual health and to reflect on personal sexual health education experiences. Issues related to sexual empowerment, sexual assertiveness, intravaginal practices, and gynecologic knowledge are centered in this research project.
The SHEER Lab 