Tiffany J. Grant

Tiffany J. Grant, PhD, CDE®, serves as Assistant Director for Researcher Engagement and Inclusive Excellence and Co-Leader of the Research & Data Services Unit at the University of Cincinnati Libraries, while also directing the Undergraduates Pursuing Research in Science and Engineering (UPRISE) Program. As a Subject Matter Expert for molecular biology and bioinformatics, she develops sustainable research support services across the university and holds faculty status through her research-intensive role and university-recognized academic contributions.

Her educational foundation includes:

• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Dillard University (2000)
• PhD in Pathobiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Cincinnati (2009)
• Graduate Certificates in Clinical and Translational Research & Healthcare Administration, University of Cincinnati
• Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion, Cornell University (2022)
• Certified Diversity Executive (CDE®) credential

Dr. Grant's scholarship centers on dismantling systemic barriers through rigorous DEI research, with particular focus on health disparities, racial equity in biomedical contexts, and the impact of structural racism on healthcare access. Her work bridges library science and public health, examining how data practices perpetuate inequities while developing frameworks for inclusive research infrastructure. Recent publications analyze the intersection of race and the COVID-19 pandemic, cross-jurisdictional DEI implementation, and mentorship models for underrepresented groups.

Her publication trajectory reveals a strategic evolution from infectious disease microbiology toward DEI scholarship, with recent book chapters driving national conversations on liberatory librarianship and racial justice. This shift aligns with her leadership in creating institutional DEI structures, demonstrating how academic research can directly inform equity initiatives.

Key recognitions include:

• UC Libraries Award for Faculty Excellence (2017)
• Marian Spencer Equity Ambassador Award for Faculty (2023)
• National Network of Libraries of Medicine awards for Health Information Outreach, Research Data, and HIV/AIDS initiatives

Through the UPRISE program and Pathobiology graduate mentorship, Dr. Grant actively cultivates underrepresented talent in STEM, while her NIH/NLM-funded grants like 'Narrowing the Health Gap in Cincinnati' operationalize health equity through community data partnerships. Her dual role as researcher and institutional architect enables unique integration of scholarship with systemic change.

Dr. Grant co-leads the RESPECT committee and founded the Library Equity and Inclusion Community of Practice, creating sustained platforms for anti-racism work across UC Libraries. Her DATA Day programming consistently centers equity in data literacy, reflecting her commitment to embedding inclusive practices throughout the research lifecycle rather than as add-on initiatives.