About Our Research Study

Introducing Reducing Obesity Using Social Ties (ROBUST) – a paid research study aimed at understanding the relationship between social support and weight loss in individuals who self-identify as Black or Hispanic and meet specific weight criteria. ROBUST is led by Dr. Erica Phillips at Weill Cornell Medicine/New York-Presbyterian Hospital, and is funded by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).

Over the course of 24 weeks, participants will engage in a structured program that includes both virtual and in-person sessions with health coaches and a certified nutritionist. These sessions will guide participants in adhering to prescribed diet and exercise plans.

In addition to the standard 24-week counseling sessions, half of the participants will be randomly selected to invite up to two individuals (friends, family members, and/or co-workers) to attend three communication sessions alongside them.

While ROBUST cannot guarantee weight loss to study participants, we hope to assist you in reaching your weight loss goals.

Meet Our Team

Meet the dedicated team behind ROBUST, committed to ensuring the success of both our participants and the study itself.

Erica Phillips, MD, MS

Principal Investigator

Dr. Phillips is a health services researcher and board-certified practicing obesity medicine specialist at Weill Cornell Internal Medicine Associates. Her research and clinical practice aim to improve the overall health of those living with or at risk for developing chronic health conditions associated with excess weight.

Briana Bell, MPH, PMP

Research Program Manager

Briana is the Research Program Manager of the ROBUST study. She assists with the regulatory oversight of the study.

Jesabely Solano, BS

ROBUST Health Coach

Jesabely Solano is one of the bilingual (Spanish) health coaches in the program. Her approach to coaching is holistic, focusing not only on physical fitness but also educating clients on the power of positive thinking.

Caitlin Potter, RDN

ROBUST Nutritionist

Caitlin is a dedicated Registered Dietitian and ROBUST Nutritionist. She has experience providing nutrition counseling to diverse patient populations in both community and clinical settings.

Anika Lewis, BS

ROBUST Recruitment and Onboarding Specialist

Anika serves as both the graduate research assistant as well as the recruitment and onboarding specialist for the ROBUST study. Ms. Lewis completed intensive study in the combined disciplines of nutrition and exercise science.