Diane Harper

Dr. Diane M. Harper is a Professor of Family Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Women’s and Gender Studies at the University of Michigan Medical School. She is an internationally recognized expert in HPV-associated diseases, cervical cancer prevention, and global health equity. Her roles include leadership in the Rogel Cancer Center and the Precision Health Initiative. She holds a Medical Degree (MD) from the University of Kansas Medical Center, an MPH from the University of Kansas, and advanced degrees in engineering from MIT.

Research interests include HPV vaccine efficacy, cervical cancer screening innovations, and health equity for marginalized populations such as women in rural areas, Arab Americans, and Indigenous communities. She has published over 300 papers and shaped global WHO guidelines. Awards include the Distinguished Scientist Award from the European Research Organization and the Femmes de l’Année Prix Monte Carlo.

Dr. Harper pioneered a urine-based cervical cancer self-test, eliminating the need for speculum exams. Her work bridges clinical practice and policy, emphasizing accessible screening methods. She has mentored numerous researchers and received teaching accolades like the Excellence in Education Award from STFM.

• Education:
  • MD, University of Kansas Medical Center, 1986
  • MS and BS, MIT, 1982 and 1980
  • MPH, University of Kansas, 1995
• Awards:
  • Association of American Physicians Member
  • Curtis G. Hames Research Award
  • Excellence in Education Award (STFM)
• Labs/Teams: Rogel Cancer Center, Precision Health Initiative, Global REACH Program