About Us – Implementation Research Institute (IRI)

Overview

The Implementation Research Institute (IRI) was established to advance the field of implementation science in mental health. Recognizing the critical gap between the development of evidence-based interventions and their adoption in routine care, IRI provides structured training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for early to mid-career investigators.

Through its comprehensive fellowship program and scholarly network, IRI equips researchers with the theoretical knowledge, methodological expertise, and collaborative skills necessary to design and conduct high-impact implementation studies.

Our Mission

The mission of IRI is to cultivate a new generation of leaders in implementation science who can bridge the divide between research and practice. By preparing investigators to rigorously study how evidence-based practices are disseminated, adopted, and sustained, IRI seeks to strengthen the quality, accessibility, and effectiveness of mental health services.

Our Vision

IRI envisions a future in which implementation science is central to mental health research and practice. By training and supporting investigators who address real-world barriers to care, IRI contributes to a healthcare system that delivers evidence-based interventions more effectively and equitably.

Our Approach

IRI’s work is guided by three core principles:

• Training – Delivering intensive instruction in the theories, methods, and strategies of implementation science.

• Mentorship – Providing sustained guidance from distinguished faculty and leaders in the field.

• Collaboration – Fostering a national community of fellows, alumni, and faculty who advance the science together.

Our Impact

Since its inception, IRI has trained numerous fellows who have gone on to secure competitive grant funding, publish influential research, and shape policy and practice in mental health. Alumni of the program form a growing network of scholars whose contributions extend across academic, clinical, and policy domains.