Education
- BS, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Pine Bluff AR, 2011, Physics
- BS, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Pine Bluff AR, 2012, Chemistry
- MPH, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, 2014, Epidemiology
- PhD, Howard University, Washington, DC, 2021, Genetics and Human Genetics
Research Interests
Dr. Caldwell is a human geneticist with an interest in combining genetic ancestry analysis and community engaged research strategies. Her work spans three primary areas: community-engaged genomics research that emphasizes ancestry, genetic literacy, and trust-building through culturally grounded partnerships; digital genomics education through the GENESIS Ai platform – a documentary and interactive learning curriculum designed to increase confidence, understanding, and readiness to use genetic information in health decision-making; and lifestyle-genomics intervention science through Linking GAINS, a 14-week program delivering nutrition guidance, genomic testing, and cardiometabolic assessment to improve health behaviors among African Americans in Baton Rouge, including the creation of a health-behavior clinic in Scotlandville.
Her multidisciplinary background in genetics, epidemiology, and molecular medicine positions her to translate genomic science into culturally responsive public-health solutions. Dr. Caldwell directs the Genomics Laboratory at Pennington Biomedical where her research focuses on integrating genetics into the daily lives of communities as both a personal and public health tool. As a Forge AHEAD Pilot Cohort 3 Fellow, Dr. Caldwell is engaged with Forge AHEAD, a health equity research center committed to eliminating health disparities in the deep south.
Department: Public Health Genomics
