La Tasha Lee, PhD, Mph
About La Tasha Lee, PhD, Mph
La Tasha Lee, PhD, MPH, is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Clinical Research and Leadership who has contributed significantly to health policy and research, particularly in sickle cell disease and health disparities. She has held various roles in academia and government, including working as a health policy advisor for U.S. Congress members and leading initiatives at the National Minority Quality Forum.
Work at The George Washington University
La Tasha Lee serves as an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Clinical Research and Leadership at The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. She has been in this role since 2014, teaching graduate-level courses in genetics, molecular biology, and epidemiology. Her academic contributions focus on equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to address public health challenges.
Education and Expertise
La Tasha Lee holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Neurobiology and Neurosciences from Florida Atlantic University, where she studied from 2008 to 2014. She also earned a Master’s Degree in Public Health from The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, completing her studies from 2004 to 2007. Additionally, she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, studying from 1999 to 2003.
Professional Experience
La Tasha Lee has extensive experience in health policy and clinical research. She currently works as the Director of Policy and Alliance Development (Heme) at Vertex Pharmaceuticals since 2021. Her previous roles include serving as a health policy advisor for U.S. Members of Congress, including Rep. Alcee Hastings and Senator Sherrod Brown, and as a Legislative Health Fellow in the United States Senate. She has also held positions at the National Minority Quality Forum and the American Society of Hematology.
Research and Initiatives
La Tasha Lee has led significant research on health disparities, particularly related to COVID-19, at the National Minority Quality Forum. She played a crucial role in the development of the Sickle Cell Disease Clinical Trials Network and launched the American Society of Hematology’s Sickle Cell Disease Initiative. Her work includes developing a comprehensive patient engagement program to enhance clinical research for sickle cell disease.
Awards and Recognition
La Tasha Lee has received several accolades for her contributions to public health and health policy. She was honored with the 2018 NMQF 40 Under 40 Leaders in Minority Health Award and the Congressional Black Caucus Health Braintrust Staff Leadership Award for her efforts to address health disparities. Additionally, she received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Florida Atlantic University.