About
Michael Relf is a Professor at Duke University School of Nursing and a Research Professor of Global Health at the Duke Global Health Institute. He currently serves as the Dean of the School of Nursing and previously held roles as Associate Dean for Global and Community Health Affairs (2014–2025) and Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Education (2008–2014). Dr. Relf has extensive international collaborations, including with institutions in Rwanda, Tanzania, South Africa, China, and the United Kingdom.
- Education: PhD in Nursing from Johns Hopkins University (2001), MS in Nursing Administration from Georgetown University (1991), BS in Nursing from South Dakota State University (1988)
Dr. Relf’s research focuses on the psychosocial aspects of HIV/AIDS, with emphasis on intimate partner violence, HIV-related stigma, and interventions to improve care engagement. His work spans global settings, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, and addresses mental health, suicidality, and cultural adaptation of interventions. Recent publications highlight telehealth solutions and intersectional stigma in low-resource environments.
Scientific awards include being named the Mary T. Champagne Distinguished Professor and induction as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN). Dr. Relf has secured significant grants from the National Institute of Nursing Research, National Institutes of Health, and Fogarty International Center, focusing on nurse-led models, PrEP interventions, and mental health capacity building. He also serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care, advocating for ethical research practices and global health equity.
