Welcome to PRISM Research

Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at OHSU

Founded in 2008 by Akram Khan, MD (MBBS), PRISM advances health outcomes in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and sepsis.

About Us
Colorful, stylized logo of a swirling, ribbon-like design with yellow, blue, and green ribbons intertwined, above the word 'OHSU' in gray, with a curved gray line above the text.

Our Research

The PRISM research team performs phase II-IV clinical trials in pulmonary clinics and hospital settings. We have multiple ongoing clinical trials in conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), COVID-19, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

  • Group of seven diverse people, including men and women, standing together in a room, smiling for the camera, with a whiteboard and fire alarm in the background.

    Volunteering

    The OHSU PRISM research team is seeking disciplined pre-med volunteers to assist with Phase II–IV clinical trials focused on ARDS, sepsis, and COPD. Working directly under Principal Investigator Dr. Akram Khan and study coordinators, volunteers will gain hands-on experience in electronic medical records and data management. It’s an ideal opportunity for students to build clinical research skills, medical knowledge, and teamwork in an academic healthcare environment.

    Volunteer
  • A person wearing blue gloves and a yellow protective gown holding a test tube with a swab, while another individual uses a swab for a medical test, with a red-capped vial nearby, against a blurred background.

    Publications

    The OHSU PRISM research team has contributed to over 25 peer-reviewed publications advancing the treatment of critical illnesses and respiratory disorders. Our published work highlights major contributions to Phase II–IV clinical trials, multicenter network studies, and novel therapies for ARDS, sepsis, COPD, and COVID-19. Through rigorous clinical investigation, our research continues to shape evidence-based practice and improve patient outcomes at the bedside.

    Publications
  • A gloved hand handling a test tube labeled COVID, with several other test tubes in a rack nearby.

    Podcast

    PRISM Rounds is a friendly, ICU-grounded audio journal club and podcast for the entire pulmonary and critical care team. Each episode breaks down real-world clinical studies and highlights ongoing research from our lab into clear, practical take-home points. It’s an evidence-based conversation designed to deliver jargon-free insights you can actually apply on your next shift.

    Podcast