Dr. Kaar, a maternal and child epidemiologist, focuses her research on addressing health disparities for racially and ethnically minoritized and low-income families. Her work spans a range of disease prevention areas, including cardiovascular health, metabolic health, and mental health. As a trained health literacy specialist and social determinants of health researcher, Dr. Kaar designs programs—such as randomized clinical trials—that target health and mental health literacy in both clinical and community settings. The ultimate goal of her research is to improve physical and mental health outcomes for children and youth, particularly those from underserved populations.

Dr. Kaar focuses her enrollment efforts on racially and ethnically minoritized and low-income families, populations that are often underrepresented in clinical trials. She is committed to serving these underserved communities by utilizing innovative technological approaches, such as mobile apps, that can reach individuals and families in their native languages, with or without internet access. These tools also provide materials tailored to appropriate literacy levels, ensuring inclusivity for all learners.

Dr. Kaar is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Heart Association, Pediatric Academic Society, Academic Pediatric Association, and Society for Prevention Research. With over 50 publications, several book chapters, and numerous scientific abstracts, she has contributed significantly to the field. She is frequently invited to lead seminars on her research nationally and internationally.

In addition to her research, Dr. Kaar mentors graduate students, medical students, and junior faculty, with a focus on empowering underrepresented students and faculty. She advocates for change and inclusivity within academic medicine, particularly for women and minorities.