Welcome to the Biobehavioral RIIG
The Biobehavioral RIIG is a driving force for biobehavioral nursing science across the southern United States. We unite investigators who are committed to producing rigorous, collaborative research that illuminates the biological, behavioral, and environmental mechanisms shaping health. Our purpose is clear: to work together to generate competitive scientific products, abstracts, posters, oral presentations, and peerâreviewed manuscripts, that elevate biobehavioral scholarship within the Southern Nursing Research Society and beyond.
We bring together scientists who are pushing the boundaries of biobehavioral inquiry. Through multiâsite collaboration, crossâdisciplinary partnerships, and shared methodological expertise, our members generate research that is innovative, mechanistic, and deeply relevant to complex clinical and population health challenges.
As a regional hub for biobehavioral discovery, the RIIG provides a space where members connect to launch new projects, refine conceptual and analytic approaches, and accelerate the production of highâimpact scholarship. Our work is grounded in scientific rigor, fueled by innovation, and strengthened by the collective power of researchers across the South who are committed to advancing biobehavioral science.
Current Research Focus Areas
Our collaborative projects span multiple domains of biobehavioral health, including:
- Metabolic Risk: early identification of cardiometabolic vulnerability, inflammation, and lifestyleâlinked risk pathways.
- Mental Health: biobehavioral mechanisms underlying stress, mood, resilience, and behavioral health outcomes.
- Genomics: candidate gene approaches, gene–environment interactions, and genomic contributors to health disparities.
- Epigenetics: DNA methylation patterns associated with stress, metabolic risk, and behavioral phenotypes.
These shared interests create a strong foundation for multiâsite collaboration, crossâdisciplinary partnerships, and innovative research across the southern region.
If you have questions about joining a RIIG, please email info@snrs.org.
Join us in advancing biobehavioral health through collaboration, connection, and innovation.
Co-Chairs
Jeni Page, PhD, APRN, ACNP-BC
Assistant Professor, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Kristen R. Weaver-Toedtman, PhD, ACNP, ANP
Assistant Professor, University of South Carolina, College of Nursing