Susan Girdler

Dr. Susan Girdler is a leading expert in the field of psychiatry and psychology, serving as a Professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her pioneering work focuses on the intricate relationship between psychosocial stress and hormone sensitivity across the various stages of women's reproductive lives. Dr. Girdler's research is particularly renowned for its exploration into the adrenergic basis of reproductive mood disorders and the neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying these conditions. In addition to her primary research, Dr. Girdler is deeply invested in understanding racial disparities in stress-responsive pain mechanisms. Her commitment to this area is exemplified by her leadership in the multi-site PROMISE study, which is dedicated to mentoring scientists from underrepresented groups. This initiative not only advances scientific knowledge but also fosters diversity and inclusion within the research community. As the Associate Vice Chair for Faculty Development and the Director of the Stress & Health Research Program at UNC, Dr. Girdler plays a pivotal role in promoting the development of junior investigators. Her efforts in faculty development are instrumental in nurturing the next generation of researchers, with a particular emphasis on minority health research. Dr. Girdler's dedication to these causes underscores her commitment to advancing both scientific inquiry and equitable representation in academia. Dr. Girdler's contributions to the field extend beyond her research and mentorship roles. Her work has significant implications for understanding premenstrual dysphoric disorder and pain mechanisms, offering insights that are crucial for improving reproductive health outcomes. Through her comprehensive approach to research and faculty development, Dr. Girdler continues to make a profound impact on the fields of psychiatry, psychology, and health sciences.