Patricia Kissinger

Patricia Kissinger is a Professor and Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Development at the Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. With over three decades of expertise in infectious disease epidemiology, she focuses on HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), women's reproductive health, and substance use across global contexts including Africa, Haiti, and the U.S. Deep South.

• BSN, Marquette University
• MPH, Tulane University
• PhD in Epidemiology, Tulane University

Her research examines STI/HIV transmission dynamics, partner notification, expedited partner therapy, sexual networks, substance abuse, and the intersection of reproductive health with pandemic responses (e.g., COVID-19). She has led NIH-, CDC-, and externally funded grants, published extensively, and contributed to STI treatment guidelines.

Recent articles highlight her work on HIV PrEP eligibility, STI diagnostics, sexual health education in Louisiana, and pandemic-related behavioral shifts. Her awards include the American STD Association Career Achievement Award and NIH College of Reviewers membership, reflecting her influence in epidemiology and public health policy.

• 2021 Student/Trainee Research Mentoring Award
• 2020 Excellence in Research - Tulane Synergy Event
• 2019 American STD Association Career Achievement Award
• 2018 CDC STD Prevention Conference Honorable Mention

Dr. Kissinger serves as Associate Editor for Journal Sex Trans Dis, consults for CDC policy, and chairs the National Academies' Committee on STI prevention. Her work bridges clinical research, public health practice, and community engagement to address health disparities.