Gisselle Vélez Ruiz, Ph.D.
About Gisselle Vélez Ruiz, Ph.D.
Gisselle Vélez Ruiz, Ph.D., serves as the Associate Director of STEM Engagement and Inclusion at the Broad Institute, where she leads initiatives to enhance diversity in STEMM careers. She holds a Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology/Pharmacology from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus.
Work at Broad Institute
Gisselle Vélez Ruiz, Ph.D., serves as the Associate Director of STEM Engagement and Inclusion at the Broad Institute. In this role, she leads the development and implementation of evidence-based programming aimed at increasing diversity in STEMM careers. She has been with the Broad Institute since 2021 and works in Cambridge, MA. Dr. Vélez Ruiz is a core member of the office of academic affairs leadership team, where she focuses on supporting the trainee community. Her responsibilities include managing the finances and budgets of the Diversity, Education and Outreach office, ensuring compliance with reporting requirements.
Education and Expertise
Dr. Gisselle Vélez Ruiz earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus, where she studied from 2001 to 2005. She then pursued her Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology/Pharmacology at the University of Michigan, completing her studies from 2005 to 2011. Her educational background provides a strong foundation for her work in STEM engagement and inclusion, particularly in developing strategies to enhance diversity in the scientific community.
Leadership and Management
In her current position, Dr. Vélez Ruiz directly supervises staff within the Diversity, Education and Outreach office. Her responsibilities include hiring and conducting performance reviews for team members. She collaborates with Broad leaders, faculty, and staff to ensure that programming aligns with the institute's strategic diversity goals. Additionally, she is involved in developing a strategic plan focused on the recruitment, development, retention, and engagement of diverse trainee communities.
Diversity Initiatives
Dr. Gisselle Vélez Ruiz is committed to increasing diversity within STEMM fields. She leads initiatives that focus on evidence-based programming to support underrepresented groups in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine. Her work includes creating strategic plans that address the recruitment and retention of diverse trainees, ensuring that the Broad Institute fosters an inclusive environment for all individuals pursuing careers in STEMM.