Rebecca Ashare

Rebecca Ashare is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University at Buffalo, SUNY, within the College of Arts and Sciences. She serves as the Clinical Area Head and Director of Clinical Training, and leads the Enhancing Research in Behavioral Health Laboratory. Her interdisciplinary research focuses on substance use, particularly tobacco and cannabis, in the context of medical and psychiatric comorbidities such as HIV and cancer.

Her research interests include:

• Substance use in HIV and cancer populations
• Cannabis for symptom and pain management
• Health inequities in behavioral health
• Mental health access in the Black community
• Smoking cessation mechanisms and interventions
• Serious illness communication

The recent trend in her publications (2022–2025) reflects a strong focus on cannabis use among cancer patients, including its role in opioid substitution, disparities in access, and patient perceptions. She also continues to investigate tobacco use in people with HIV, examining metabolic, cognitive, and clinical outcomes. Her work integrates behavioral science, public health, and community engagement, with an emphasis on equity and translational impact.

Dr. Ashare has no listed scientific awards in the provided text.

She advises no students listed in the source material. Her research is supported by collaborations with NCI-Designated Cancer Centers and community organizations like the National Witness Project. She is actively involved in developing health communication interventions and improving clinical outcomes through behavioral and pharmacological strategies.

She is affiliated with the Enhancing Research in Behavioral Health Laboratory, which conducts clinical and community-based research on substance use, mental health, and health disparities.