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Rita Colwell

Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics
Professor Emerita and Distinguished University Professor
Graduate Program Affiliations
- BISI - Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, & Genomics (CBBG)
- BISI - Molecular & Cellular Biology (MOCB)
Research Interests
Research interests focused on global infectious diseases, water, and health. Currently developing an international network to address emerging infectious diseases and water issues, including safe drinking water for both the developed and developing world.
Other interests include K-12 science and mathematics education, graduate science and engineering education and the increased participation of women and minorities in science and engineering.
Awards
- Medal of Distinction from Columbia University
- Gold Medal of Charles University, Prague
- UCLA Medal from the University of California, Los Angeles
- Alumna Summa Laude Dignata from the University of Washington, Seattle
Education
- B.S., Bacteriology, Purdue University
- M.S., Genetics, Purdue University
- Ph.D., Oceanography, University of Washington






