Naomi Lee

Dr. Naomi Lee is an Associate Professor at Northern Arizona University in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Her research spans vaccinology, biochemistry, and STEM education with a focus on reducing health disparities in Native American communities. She leads the Lee Lab Research Group, which develops novel peptide-based therapeutics for HPV vaccines, cardiovascular disease prevention, and opioid addiction mitigation through methamphetamine hapten vaccines.

Her work integrates Indigenous perspectives in public health research, particularly addressing vaginal microbiome variations contributing to cervical cancer disparities. She pioneers culturally relevant education programs to increase access for historically excluded students in STEM, evidenced by her Chemistry and Culture Workbook and collaborations with the Partnership for Native American Cancer Prevention.

The 15 most recent publications demonstrate expertise in vaccinology, microbiome research, and health equity frameworks. Key subfields include virus-like particle engineering, opioid immunotherapy, Indigenous workforce development, and structural peptide optimization. Her team has received numerous scientific awards including the NIH NINDS Exceptional Summer Student Award, AISES Professional of the Year, and Barry Goldwater Scholarships for mentees.

Student mentorship spans PhD candidates like Tawnjerae Joe at the University of Arizona, postdoctoral fellows such as Krystal Charley, and undergraduate researchers including Amaya Pablo working on silver nanocluster conjugation and Caleb Rice developing methamphetamine vaccines. Former students have pursued advanced degrees at institutions like Stanford, Johns Hopkins, and Kansas University.

• Lead researcher in NIH-funded HPV vaccine development
• Co-investigator in Community Health Representative programs for clinical trial trust-building
• Director of 4CSCC (Four Corners Science and Computing Club)