Who We Are
By the numbers: RLA’s recent impact
RLA serves clients who are driving progress through scientific research, analysis, and administration; policy development, advocacy, and implementation; and public outreach and engagement. Our portfolio illustrates the rich results these endeavors have generated throughout RLA’s two decades of moving science forward. Below, we’re proud to highlight RLA’s recent impact on efforts to meet emergent and ongoing public health challenges, enhance scientific knowledge through collaboration and inclusion, and chart a healthier future for all.
Since 2020, RLA has supported:
30+ scientific collaborations to address pressing challenges
RLA has helped clients including the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health and agencies throughout the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) convene national and global collaborations across institutions, disciplines, and sectors to address emerging scientific challenges and opportunities. Our strategic and logistical support has advanced critical collaborations to address public health topics including COVID-19, opioid addiction, HIV/AIDS, and Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD).
65+ AgeTech pilot awards to transform aging
RLA serves as the Coordinating Center for the National Institute on Aging (NIA) Artificial Intelligence and Technology Collaboratories (AITC) for Aging Research program, also known as the a2 Collective. Through a national pilot awards competition hosted annually by the a2 Collective, NIA plans to award at least $40 million over 5 years to projects piloting AI-driven technologies that can improve care and health outcomes for older adults, including individuals with AD/ADRD, and their caregivers. As the a2 Collective Coordinating Center, RLA harmonizes the activities of the program’s three AITCs and plays a critical role in the development, coordination, and ongoing execution of the a2 Pilot Awards competition.
20+ federal strategies to advance public health
RLA has supported clients including the White House Office of National AIDS Policy, the HHS Office of Infectious Disease and HIV/AIDS Policy, and the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health (OASH) in the development of public-facing strategic materials outlining key challenges, near- and long-term goals, and recommended actions to improve public health. Recent projects include national strategic plans, implementation plans, and reports to Congress on topics such as HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections, tick-borne diseases, and vaccines.
15+ initiatives to reduce health and workforce disparities
RLA has worked with clients including the Office of Climate Change and Health Equity, Office of Minority Health, OASH Office of Regional Health Operations, National Institutes of Health, University of Southern California, and Alzheimer’s Association in support of projects designed to reduce health disparities and advance scientific workforce diversity. Our work includes spearheading listening sessions with experts and community stakeholders; developing surveys and analyzing results; conceptualizing and creating video trainings; writing manuscripts and reports; and promoting platforms designed to engage underrepresented educators, researchers, and students.