About Us
The Elevate Lab (formerly the Center for Health Equity Transformation at Northwestern University), has been dedicated to its mission of improving health and healthcare delivery, ensuring that individuals from all backgrounds have the opportunity to achieve their best possible health. Through groundbreaking research, community engagement and impactful educational initiatives, the Elevate Lab has made meaningful strides in transforming systems and structures to advance health for all.
Led by Melissa A. Simon, MD, MPH, the George H. Gardner Professor of Clinical Gynecology and a professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Preventive Medicine and Medical Social Sciences at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, the Elevate Lab serves as a vital bridge between Northwestern University and communities across Chicago and beyond, supporting healthcare access, cancer prevention and survivorship, and maternal health. Through community-driven initiatives and nationally recognized research programs, the Elevate Lab has improved health outcomes, strengthened communities, influenced healthcare policy and contributed to innovations in clinical care.
The Elevate Lab also serves as a launchpad for the next generation of healthcare providers, researchers and community health leaders. From undergraduate research immersion programs to mentorship for early-career faculty from all backgrounds, the Elevate Lab creates vital pathways into medicine, research and public health for students and trainees.
Beyond its research and training missions, the Elevate Lab seeks to foster a deep sense of community and belonging at Northwestern and strengthen vital ties with the surrounding communities. The Elevate Lab hosts events and initiatives that bring together students, faculty, staff and community members in spaces that celebrate all identities, share lived experiences, and inspire collective action toward health for all. These events are foundational to building a campus culture, research culture and healthcare system where all voices are respected and valued.
Get to know the people and partners who make our work possible and explore how you can get involved.