Erica A. Gobrogge, Ph.D., is the Director of People Development and is on the Leadership Team for the Cancer Epigenetics T32 Training Program at Van Andel Institute. She graduated from Hendrix College with a B.A in biochemistry and molecular biology magna cum laude and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. She then earned a Ph.D. in molecular microbiology at Washington University in St. Louis, where she completed her dissertation research on the discovery and characterization of novel human polyomaviruses in the laboratory of David Wang, Ph.D. Her work resulted in multiple publications, awards, the National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship and the American Heart Association Pre-Doctoral Fellowship.

While in graduate school, Erica helped run a large science outreach organization, which broadened her interests outside the lab. After completing a science policy fellowship at the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, she directed the society’s education, professional development and diversity programs. In this role, Erica expanded the society’s career development resources for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. At VAI, Erica ensures postdocs receive the rigorous, personalized postdoctoral training, support and advocacy they need to launch their independent careers. Erica also serves on the ASBMB Membership Committee and as co-chair of the Professional Development Hub’s Communications Working Group.