Johnna M. Frierson

Johnna M. Frierson, PhD, a native of Rock Hill, SC, received her bachelor’s degree in Biology at Furman University, and PhD in Microbiology & Immunology at Vanderbilt University. Currently, her scholarly interests and expertise lie in examining and identifying solutions to challenges at the intersection of STEM, education, and equity. Dr. Frierson translates this expertise into developing innovative programs and initiatives to support scientific and leadership development of faculty ad trainees and expand community outreach to inspire the next generation of STEM scholars.

Bringing over a decade of experience at both public and private institutions, she has a demonstrated track record of developing successful recruitment and educational initiatives, spearheading cross-campus and inter-institutional partnerships, and implementing impactful mentoring programs for STEM trainees. She has obtained funding from a variety of sources to support her programmatic efforts including donor-funded gifts, and grants through the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, NSF, and NIH. Her passion and work have drawn notice nationally as Dr. Frierson has been interviewed by The New York Times, featured in Science magazine, and identified as one of “1000 Inspiring Black Scientists in America” by Cell Mentor.

In her current role as the Associate Dean of Reseearch Engagement at Duke University School of Medicine she plays a strategic leadership role in fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and professional research environment across the Basic Science departments in the School of Medicine. She is responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing initiatives which actively engage faculty, trainees, and staff in the research enterprise and serves as a key liaison between the SOM Office for Faculty, the Basic Science departments and the SOM Office for Community, Engagement, and Impact focusing on increasing collaboration and community-building, promoting a professional and respectful workplace, and promoting optimal mentoring relationships and experiences.