the HELIOS lab

Equity-driven health services research and prehealth pipeline program in the UCI Department of Family Medicine

UCI Giving Day is April 22, 2025!

Research shows that the “little things” like the flexibility to participate in internships, funding to attend professional conferences, and access to transportation, professional attire and test prep resources can become big obstacles for first-generation students on their journey to the health professions. That’s why HELIOS turns to our network of friends, supporters and alumni to raise money for the “little things” and clear the path for our students to do BIG things for decades to come!

Mark your calendars for UC Irvine's annual Giving Day on April 22. Donna and John Billimek will be matching all donations dollar-for-dollar up to $1,500. This means your gift to the HELIOS Lab will have twice the impact, helping us reach our goals and support our vital programs twice as fast!

Can’t wait and want to make your donation today? Please visit: givingday.uci.edu/HELIOS

HELIOS Student Research Projects

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Student Testimonials

  • This lab has enhanced my undergraduate experience 10 fold. I do not know what I would have done without all the support and encouragement this lab has offer me. I appreciate Dr. B for always supporting our plans and made me feel like I could accomplish anything.

    HELIOS 2020 Alumni

  • HELIOS was my favorite experience going through the UCI Postbacc program! I am eternally grateful to have met and worked with such a wonderful and compassionate team. Thank you for everything!!

    HELIOS 2021 Alumni

  • I feel so grateful to have been a part of this AMAZING lab and to have worked alongside such wonderful and supportive faculty and members. I will cherish the experiences and memories I made through HELIOS forever! Please reach out to me for anything in the future, I am always glad to be of help!!

    HELIOS 2022 Alumni

  • I would just like to thank all the HELIOS staff for creating such a supportive and welcoming environment that supports their students. I'm really grateful for all you do for students and for creating a space of like minded individuals who are passionate about providing equitable health care.

    HELIOS 2023 Alumni

  • Thank you so much for all the wonderful opportunities and personal and professional growth that the lab has allowed me to achieve!

    HELOS 2024 Alumni

  • Shadowing Dr. Lin and Dr. Thieu was an amazing experience that impacted my view of the medical field. Witnessing their dedication and compassion not only deepened my understanding of the healthcare disparities but also inspired a commitment to addressing these issues in my future endeavors.

    Current HELIOS Member

  • At HELIOS I have enjoyed working with a team of peers that come from a similar background and whose main goals are to address health inequities in our communities. I have learned about the DASH diet and healthy practices for patients with a hypertensive diagnosis which will serve me as a future medical student.

    HELIOS 2024 Postbacc