Dr. Rao's research interests include the development of timely new methods for undertaking the genetic dissection of common complex traits. His applied research deals largely with genetic epidemiological investigations of cardiovascular disease and co-morbidities, as well as the metabolic syndrome. He has published over 500 research articles. He is currently the PI of several research projects, including a methodological grant and Data Coordinating Centers for several multicenter family and genetic studies (HyperGEN/ FBPP, HERITAGE, GenSalt).

Dr. Rao is active in training and mentoring activities: Program Director of the GEMS program, Co-Director of a Ph.D. program, Program Director of a Summer Institute Program (SIPID), and PI of a Pre-Doctoral Training Grant.