Dr. Aikens’ research revolves around the use of communication technology to support patients and their caregivers in chronic illness self-management, particularly within settings challenged by disparities due to minority race/ethnicity, underinsurance, and poverty. He currently directs an effectiveness trial that is testing an mHealth-based system to enhance family members’ support of diabetes patients' self-management. He also directs a second randomized controlled trial that is testing whether automated telephonic self-management support for patients and their caregivers improves outcomes in primary care depression. Additionally, he is interested in developing self-report instruments, and investigating heterogeneity in depression treatment response. His other roles include practicing clinical psychology within a primary care setting, and serving as Editor-in-Chief of the Sage journal Chronic Illness.