Dr. Vanessa M. Griffith
Tell us about yourself.
I am a highly adaptive, multi-talented, and solutions-driven Army senior non-commissioned officer with over 14 years of experience in the arenas of public health, electromagnetic spectrum management, and military human resources (HR). In the field of public health, I am an aspiring infectious disease epidemiologist and data analyst. I am principally interested in understanding the strategies employed by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) to evade human innate and adaptive immune responses and the pharmacological effects of anti-tubercular and anti-retroviral drugs. My objective is to utilize the knowledge gained from these strategies to spearhead the development of more potent drugs against tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. I am progressively self-taught in SQL, R, and Python, and desires to leverage these and other programming languages in order to enable data-driven decisions necessary to improving TB and HIV/AIDS programs across the United States and abroad. I am moreover interested in preventing and controlling the infectious disease and environmental threats which adversely impact the readiness and combat power of the Army and its Soldiers.
Why did you pursue a DrPH?
Perhaps the most attractive characteristic of the DRPH, and one that inspired me to pursue the degree, is the fact that it provides an opportunity to pursue a leadership position in public health. This ideally aligns with my desire to become a manager or director and senior epidemiologist of a tuberculosis (TB) or HIV/AIDS program.
What are you currently excited about in your job?
As a part-time public health professional, I am excited about the opportunity that the field provides me in making a tangible and significant difference to my community.If you could write a book about your life, what would the title be and why?
"Empowered by Purpose: Balancing Growth, Education, and an Unstoppable Spirit", reflects my journey as a confident Black woman committed to personal and professional development. It embodies my dedication to fostering social justice and community empowerment while continually striving for excellence in all aspects of my life.
If you could write a book about your life, what would the title be and why?
My Unexpected and Circuitous Career Path as a Public Health Professional, because I originally planned to be a biochemist but ultimately enlisted in the Army and was introduced to - and became interested in - the field of public health.
What is something interesting about you that we should know?
I have served in the United States Army for nearly 15 years and possess an eclectic background in public health, electromagnetic spectrum management, and military human resources (HR).
