Prof. Jacobson López Receives CISS Pilot Grant to Study Medical Care of Gay Black & Latino Sexual Assault Survivors
The Boston University Center for Innovation in Social Science has awarded Assistant Professor Daniel Jacobson López of BU School of Social Work (BUSSW) a pilot grant of $5,000 designed to support “researchers applying interdisciplinary lenses and methods to cutting-edge social issues.” He will lead the grant with co-project investigator Steven Meanley, PhD, an assistant professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing.
The grant will fund a study exploring what, if any, current protocols exist for gay and bisexual Black and/or Latino male sexual assault survivors who seek post-assault medical care in Boston. The results of this research will provide knowledge necessary for providing medical care that is evidence-based, trauma-informed and culturally responsive, and which improves the well-being of those who are frequently disregarded sexual assault survivors.
“I am extremely appreciative to receive this grant from CISS, knowing that this research will help gay and bisexual Black and/or Latino men who are sexually assaulted,” says Jacobson López. “Too many times, these men are dismissed and re-traumatized. It is my sincere hope that this study will enhance medical care provision and help medical care professionals provide the care these men deserve.”
Jacobson López adds, “I am very lucky to have my valued friend and colleague Dr. Meanley leading this grant with me, and I’m thankful to Drs. Gonyea and Sprague Martinez for their support and guidance.”
Daniel Jacobson López, PhD, focuses his research on violence against gay Black and Latino men, sexual violence, and the intersection of public health and social work. In addition to his role as a BUSSW faculty member, he was recently appointed as a faculty affiliate at CISS and is a certified sexual assault counselor, licensed clinical social worker, certified Accelerated Resolution Therapy counselor, and an anti-bias facilitator with the Anti-Defamation League.