About VA Maryland Research

The VA Maryland Health Care System (VAMHCS) Research & Development (R&D) Program is a very active research program which has been ranked in the top five nationwide for several years. The program has more than 50 funded investigators conducting over 300 projects. The program conducts investigations in biomedical research, health services research, clinical trials, cooperative studies, and rehabilitation research. The Baltimore VAMC is also home to several centers of excellence and special programs including:

• Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC)
• Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC) 
• Multiple Sclerosis Center of Excellence
• Research Enhancement Award Program (REAP) on Stroke
• Research Enhancement Award Program (REAP) on ALS
• Rehabilitation Research Center on Exercise and Robotics

The VAMHCS R&D Program supports the VA mission by conducting programs committed to improving health care to our nation's veterans. The research program helps the VA recruit the best physicians.

The VAMHCS R&D Program has a strong affiliation with the University of Maryland School of Medicine which is located across the street from the Baltimore Medical Center and is accessible by a pedestrian bridge. VA investigators hold dual appointments with the VA and the University.

The VAMHCS R&D Program is committed to the support of its investigators with a strong administrative staff which is responsible for the oversight of the studies conducted including the protection of human subjects, safety of laboratory personnel and the welfare of animals used in research studies.

The Baltimore Research and Education Foundation, Inc. (BREF)  is the non-profit foundation that was established to facilitate the conduct of approved medical research at the VAMHCS. Support of these activities is handled through the receipt and distribution of funds originating from non-Department of Veterans Affairs sources. BREF administers all phases of research and related educational activities supported by its holdings.

The VAMHCS R&D administrative office is located on the 3rd floor of the Baltimore VA Medical Center, and can be reached at (410) 605-7130. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 4:30pm.