Duke Cancer Institute member Raphael H. Valdivia, PhD, a professor of molecular genetics and microbiology and former vice dean of basic science in the School of Medicine, has been named the Nanaline Duke Distinguished Professor of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology.
Valdivia is notable in the field of microbiology for his interdisciplinary studies applying genetics and cell biology to study obligate intracellular pathogens, and for developing new approaches to study the microbiome. He was the first to develop, optimize, and apply fluorescent proteins for use in studying bacterial pathogens.
Valdivia has made significant advances in understanding how the pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis infects and replicates within human hosts.
An elected fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology and the American Association for the Advancement of Science, he is a leader in addressing the lack of diversity in biomedical sciences and disparities in opportunities available for underrepresented minorities in academia. He works to create inclusive environments where scientific excellence and diversity are recognized as integrated values to be celebrated at all stages of academia.
This article was excerpted from an article on the Duke University School of Medicine website
