Chen to help shape the future of nursing science on national stage

Chen X. Chen, PhD, RN, MBBS, FAAN, Sorensen Endowed Professor at the College of Nursing, has been appointed to the American Academy of Nursing (AAN) Standing Committee on Scientific Leadership. She joins 10 other nationally recognized nurse scientists to guide AAN Science, the academy’s new initiative to advance nursing science, strengthen its impact on patient care, and elevate its role in health policy and health care leadership.

“The AAN is entering an exciting new chapter in nursing science, and I am honored to contribute to this important work,” Chen said. “It’s a privilege to serve alongside accomplished national leaders who are committed to advancing science that improves health and informs policy.”

The Standing Committee on Scientific Leadership is responsible for identifying and developing opportunities for nurse scientists across the career continuum, identifying nurse scientists to serve in federal advisory roles, and reviewing and recommending recipients of AAN science awards and grants.

For Chen, the appointment offers an opportunity to contribute to national conversations about the future of nursing science and to help shape opportunities for nurse scientists throughout their careers.

“I look forward to learning from national leaders, contributing to conversations about the future of nursing science, and helping identify opportunities that support nurse scientists at every stage of their careers,” Chen said. “Most importantly, I hope to bring these experiences and insights back to the University of Arizona to strengthen mentorship, collaboration, and research opportunities for our faculty and students.”

Chen’s research focuses on dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain), a common yet often overlooked condition that affects millions of women and can increase the risk of other chronic pain conditions. Her work and collaborations also span pain, women’s health, and research methodology, with partnerships across the U.S. and internationally.

As a principal or co-investigator, Chen has secured more than $6.7 million in federal research funding and published more than 50 peer-reviewed articles. Her work has been cited by scholars in more than 50 countries and featured in major media outlets, including STAT News, USA Today, and TED-Ed.

Chen has helped establish the College of Nursing’s new certificate in AI Ready Healthcare Empowerment (CARE), a graduate certificate that prepares nurses and other health care professionals to use AI tools across clinical practice, innovation, research, and leadership. The online certificate addresses the growing need for formal training in AI applications for nursing and health care.

Mentorship has also been central to Chen’s approach to scientific leadership. Throughout her career, she has prioritized mentoring students, trainees, and early-career scientists. She views scientific leadership as an opportunity to amplify others’ work, foster collaboration, and help build a stronger scientific workforce.

Since joining the College of Nursing about two years ago, Chen has expanded her research program, forged interdisciplinary partnerships across the university and beyond, and continued mentoring future scholars. She credits the College of Nursing’s collaborative, intellectually vibrant environment and the University of Arizona for enabling these efforts.

“The College of Nursing has been instrumental in my growth as a researcher, educator, and leader,” Chen said. “I am deeply grateful to my colleagues, collaborators, and students for their expertise, support, and shared commitment to improving health, which have continually inspired me.”

Chen’s AAN appointment brings her expertise and perspective to national conversations about emerging research priorities and the opportunities and challenges facing the nursing profession. Her service amplifies the University of Arizona College of Nursing’s voice in national conversations that shape the future of nursing research, education, policy, and clinical care.