She has engaged in research alongside Aboriginal peoples and communities to explore the social determinants of health in relation to health disparities and inequities. Her SSHRC funded collaborative research inquires narratively into the educational and schooling experiences of urban Aboriginal youths and their families. Her CIHR funded (Co-PI) research focuses on HIV and AIDS and the provision of care; her more recently funded CIHR project focuses on the experiences of pregnant and early parenting women who live in precarious housing situations. Vera has worked closely alongside Michelle Lavoie as she integrates arts-based practices into her research and teaching. Vera is an affiliate member of the Centre for Research on Teacher Education and Development, as well as the chair of the Boyle McCauley Health Centre, an inner city Primary Health Care Centre.