The Clinical Epidemiology Center (CEC) is a center of data analytics focused on solving major health problems affecting veterans and the world. We translate complex health data into actionable insights that drive medical innovation and improve patient outcomes within the VA St. Louis Health Care System and beyond.
Our Mission
Our mission is to conduct pioneering epidemiological research that enhances the health and well-being of our nation’s veterans. By leveraging large-scale data and advanced analytical methods, we aim to uncover the root causes of disease, identify effective treatments, and inform public health policy.
We aim to advance the health and healthcare of U.S. Veterans by generating high-quality evidence through innovative clinical research, rigorous epidemiologic methods, and collaborative scientific inquiry.
VISION
To be a leading center of excellence in clinical epidemiology, shaping the future of health care through research that improves outcomes for Veterans and informs policy and practice nationwide.
About the Center
The Clinical Epidemiology Center is dedicated to advancing research that improves health outcomes for U.S. Veterans. The Center is directed by Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly, an internationally recognized leader in clinical epidemiology and pharmacoepidemiology (TIME100 Health honoree; Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher). Our team conducts and supports high-quality patient-oriented investigations that address critical questions in clinical care, population health, and healthcare delivery.
Our researchers leverage large-scale electronic health record data and advanced epidemiologic and causal inference methods to generate evidence with real-world clinical impact. Through collaboration with investigators, healthcare systems, and partners, the Center aims to accelerate scientific discovery and translation into improved care for Veterans.
Research and Impact
The Center’s research portfolio addresses major health challenges affecting Veterans, with particular emphasis on:
- Long COVID and post-acute sequelae
- Medication effectiveness and safety
- Diabetes and metabolic disease
- Chronic Kidney Disease
- GLP-1 receptor agonists and emerging therapeutics
Our investigators have a strong publication record in leading scientific journals, including Nature, Science, Nature Medicine, NEJM, JAMA, BMJ, and other high-impact publications.
INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Supported by new funding initiatives, the Center is expanding its research programs and collaborative partnerships. We work closely with clinicians, investigators, and trainees to advance innovative research and translate findings into improved healthcare outcomes for Veterans.
Core Focus Areas
Leadership
Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly
Director, Clinical Epidemiology CenterDr. Al-Aly is a renowned clinical epidemiologist whose work has significantly advanced our understanding of the long-term health consequences of various diseases. His leadership guides the center’s strategic direction and research initiatives.
The Center is directed by Ziyad Al-Aly, MD, whose research focuses on the long-term effects of COVID-19, medication effectiveness, kidney disease, and diabetes. Under this leadership, the Center is expanding its research portfolio, strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration, and advancing methodological innovation in clinical epidemiology.
The Center’s investigators bring expertise spanning clinical epidemiology, health outcomes research, causal inference, and data science, enabling a comprehensive and collaborative approach to complex health challenges.
The CEC hosts an ongoing lecture series featuring national and international experts in clinical research, epidemiology, and healthcare innovation. These events promote scientific exchange, collaboration, and professional development across disciplines.
Information about our upcoming lecture series and other important events will be available here soon. Please check back for updates.
Present at Our Lecture Series
The CEC maintains a selective, invitation-driven lecture series designed to highlight nationally recognized leaders whose scholarship advances clinical epidemiology, population health, and health policy.
While most speakers are invited, we welcome inquiries from established investigators and thought leaders whose work aligns with our mission and demonstrates substantial impact.
To be considered, please submit:
- Brief bio
- Proposed lecture title
Submissions may be sent to: STLCEC@va.gov
Upcoming Lectures
April 8th, 2026 | 12:00 – 1:00 PM (CST)
- Ruben Nava, MD
- Associate Professor of Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis
- Focus: Lung Transplant
- Location: Virtual
May 13th, 2026 | 12:00 – 1:00 PM (CST)
- Miranda Orr, PhD
- Associate Professor of Neurology, Washington University in St. Louis
- Focus: Alzheimer’s Disease
- Location: Virtual
The CEC is undergoing significant expansion through new funding initiatives and growing research programs. We are actively building collaborations and creating opportunities for investigators, trainees, and staff to contribute to impactful research that improves Veteran health.
The Clinical Epidemiology Center seeks talented, thoughtful, and collaborative individuals who are committed to advancing rigorous , high-impact research that improves the health and healthcare of U.S. Veterans.
We value strong communication skills, intellectual curiosity, initiative, and the ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary research teams. Our work leverages large-scale electronic health records and advanced epidemiologic and causal inference methods to generate evidence with real-world impact.
Positions at the Center require the highest standards of professionalism and research integrity. Employees must meet institutional and VA requirements, including required training and background clearance.
We welcome inquiries regarding research collaborations and career opportunities. We also invite experts interested in presenting as part of our Lecture Series to reach out.