Biography

Jennifer Pharr is an an expert on the intersection of sports, physical activity, and health. 

Pharr is an associate professor in the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health. She is also a lead coordinator of RUSH — Raiders, UNLV, Sport & Health —  a partnership between the university, Las Vegas’ NFL team, the Clark County School District, and other partners. RUSH promotes fitness, nutrition, and mental wellness among middle school girls and teaches them the skills needed to play sports in high school. RUSH particularly encourages involvement in flag football, which will become an Olympic sport in 2028.

In addition to exploring ways to use sports and social marketing to advance and promote health, Pharr has researched disparities in both diseases and access to health care. She particularly has interest in breaking down barriers that impede healthy behaviors and the use of health services (such as HIV testing and preventive care), especially among sexual and gender minorities. Pharr has also examined differences in illnesses, including HIV, mental health, and chronic diseases.

Pharr's published research has delved into topics such as drowning rate disparities among people of color, discrimination and physical violence against sexual minority women, transgender sports bans, and suicidal ideation among vulnerable populations. Her work has been featured in peer-reviewed publications, including the Journal of Physical Activity and Health, Journal of AIDS & Clinical Research, and LGBT Health.