JoAnn S. Roberts

Born on the beautiful island of Bermuda, I was raised by Jamaican parents, with whom I immigrated to the United States at the age of 9. I earned my B.A. in Biological Chemistry and M.S. in Biomedical Science from Florida Atlantic University. I continued my education at the Medical University of South Carolina, where I completed my Ph.D. in Molecular and Cellular Biology (Research Emphasis: host-pathogen interactions in the oral cavity). Currently, I am a postdoc in the laboratory of Dr. Sophie Deng. My research addresses challenges in the ex vivo cultivation of stem cells for corneal transplantation. In my free time I am a singer-songwriter and a worship leader at my church. I love creative environments and basking in the serenity of nature.

I have a passion to promote equity and inclusivity in STEM. Therefore, I would like to work to develop, implement, and direct STEM initiatives that focus on increasing STEM interest, retention, and success – specifically among underrepresented groups.