Dr. Rae Hunter is a cancer researcher and dedicated educator with a proven track record inspiring the next generation of scientists. She brings a unique background in science education, cancer research and corporate law. Dr. Hunter founded The Hunter Institute with the aim of increasing diversity in STEM. She is committed to promoting equity and  inclusivity and driving positive change.

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Dr. Hunter boasts an impressive career path deeply rooted in education and the promotion of diversity within STEM disciplines. With dual master's degrees in Secondary Science Education and Biology from Georgia State University, alongside a PhD in Biological and Biomedical Sciences from Emory University, she has navigated various educational spheres with excellence. From her tenure as a middle school science teacher in DeKalb County to her roles as a biology educator at Georgia State University and Emory University, Dr. Hunter's expertise has left an indelible mark on students at every level. 

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Her passion for diversity and inclusion shines through her proactive efforts, including spearheading the formation of DEI committees within Emory's graduate science programs and actively engaging in DEI initiatives within her current corporate capacity, earning her the Student Inclusive Excellence Award for the Laney Graduate School at Emory University. Whether in the classroom or in corporate settings, Dr. Hunter's tireless advocacy for inclusivity has contributed significantly to creating environments where all individuals can thrive.

Dr. Ron Hunter is a chemist by training who brings a range of diverse experiences to this role. He is a a skilled communicator and diplomat with a passion for public health. He brings a unique perspective with a holistic view of his field from his roles in government, industry, and academia. Dr. Hunter is a strong proponent of diversity of thought, and works to promote STEM opportunities to underrepresented groups.

 

Dr. Hunter is the Director of the Tobacco Products Laboratory at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in Atlanta, Georgia, overseeing laboratory activities to ensure consumer protection. With a background in diversity and public health, he translates complex concepts into accessible knowledge. Previously, he was the Technical Director of Chemistry for North America at Mérieux NutriSciences and developed analytical chemistry methods at the CDC, earning the Director’s Award for Excellence in Innovation. At The Coca-Cola Company, he developed dairy product analysis methods.

 

Dr. Hunter received Emory University’s 40 Under Forty Award for his leadership and the 2024 Emory Alum of the Year for mentoring LGBTQ+ students. He serves on several boards and committees, including the American Chemical Society and ADDSTEAM.

 

He holds Bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and Spanish from Mercer University and a PhD in analytical chemistry from Emory University.

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Dr. Hunter contributes to this board in his personal capacity. The views expressed are his own and do not necessarily represent the views of the Food and Drug Administration or the United States Government.

Tyshawn is a PhD candidate in the Biochemistry, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (BCDB) program at Emory University. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Albany State University, where he developed an interest in virology. His interest stemmed from how virus evolution could influence infection in a new host, as recently shown with the COVID-19 pandemic. Since his initial experiences at the University of Texas at Austin and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Tyshawn has transitioned into studying other viruses at Emory, such as the dengue virus (DENV).

 

Tyshawn's commitment to expanding diversity through the sciences can be traced back to his early years in undergrad where he participated in outreach programs targeting students from primary and secondary schools. Notably, he has led lectures at the University and secondary school scale through programs like the Atlanta Science Festival and local school initiatives. Furthermore, Tyshawn has organized and led a national initiative to communicate advancements in Virology, discuss misconceptions within the field, and explore career pathways with undergrad students under the American Society of Virology. As Tyshawn quotes, " the youth is an abundant source of unlimited potential, and therefore, we must equip them with the resources to realize it."

Dr. Henry earned his PhD from Wake Forest University School of Medicine, where he studied cytokine regulation of T-cell-mediated immunity. In 2016, Dr. Henry joined Emory University’s Department of Pediatrics, focusing on how comorbidities like aging and obesity affect cancer progression, chemotherapy response, and immunotherapy safety.

 

Currently, as Deputy Associate Director of DEIA at the University of Colorado Cancer Center, Associate Professor of Immunology and Microbiology, and the Margaret Turley Grohne Chair in Translational Cancer Research, he leads research aimed at developing novel therapies for cancer. During his career, Dr. Henry has received several prestigious grants including an NCI-funded K01, the UNCF-Merck Postdoctoral Fellowship, an American Cancer Society Junior Faculty Achievement Award, an Aflac Pilot Grant, and the Mark Foundation for Cancer Research ASPIRE Award.  Dr. Henry has also been listed as the first or senior author on numerous manuscripts published in highly-cited journals

 

Dr. Henry is dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, working to ensure that research opportunities and cancer care advancements are accessible to underrepresented groups and fostering inclusive environments in his field.