Dr. Huff MacPherson's research focuses on the impact of acculturation and sociocultural factors on substance use and abuse, particularly in underrepresented minorities. She started her academic career in the UA College of Optical Sciences, where she continues to serve as principal investigator and co-principal investigator on several National Science Foundation grants centered on community capacity building with Native Nations and Indigenous peoples. Dr. Huff MacPherson earned her Doctor of Health Education degree in Community Health and Wellness from A.T. Still University.