Using spatial science to improve understanding of gun violence and its causes
Official title: Spatial Science Approaches to Enhance Gun Violence Surveillance and RelatedDeterminants
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11056972 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how things like where people live and their community conditions affect gun violence, especially in neighborhoods that face more challenges, to find ways to help prevent it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $243,768 |
| NIH project number | 1K18MD020218-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056972 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in neighborhoods disproportionately affected by gun violence, particularly those under 21 years old.
✕Less likely to help
Patients living in areas with low rates of gun violence or those not impacted by the social determinants being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between gun violence and various social determinants of health, particularly in disadvantaged neighborhoods. By analyzing publicly available data on crime, demographics, and health, the project aims to identify patterns and factors that contribute to gun violence. The approach combines spatial science with insights from criminology and health policy to develop effective strategies for prevention. The research also includes a career development plan for the investigator to enhance their expertise in this critical area.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing gun violence and reducing fatalities in affected communities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that analyzing social determinants and spatial factors can effectively inform public health interventions, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Desjardins, Michael Richard — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Desjardins, Michael Richard
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.