Risha Renee Irvin

Dr. Risha Renee Irvin leads initiatives in improving the health outcomes of vulnerable populations affected by HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. As an Associate Professor of Medicine and Associate Vice Chair for Diversity and Inclusion, she is deeply committed to advancing healthcare equity through her multifaceted approach, which includes clinical care, research, and community engagement. Dr. Irvin is the Director of the Baltimore HIV Collaboratory for the Center for AIDS Research, where she spearheads efforts to integrate community perspectives into research and healthcare delivery. Her work is pivotal in bridging the gap between scientific research and real-world application, ensuring that the voices of those most affected by these diseases are heard and addressed. In addition to her work with HIV and HCV, Dr. Irvin has played a significant role in the COVID-19 Prevention Trials Network, focusing on community engagement strategies both locally and nationally. Her efforts have been instrumental in fostering trust and collaboration between researchers and communities, particularly during the challenging times of the pandemic. Dr. Irvin's dedication to diversity and inclusion is evident in her leadership of pipeline programs designed to cultivate the next generation of healthcare professionals. Through these programs, she aims to create a more inclusive and representative medical workforce that can better serve diverse populations. Her research interests are deeply rooted in understanding and addressing the social determinants of health that contribute to disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. By leveraging her expertise in community engagement, Dr. Irvin is committed to developing innovative solutions that improve the lives of those most in need. Dr. Irvin's work has not only advanced the field of medicine but also set a standard for how healthcare professionals can effectively engage with and support vulnerable communities. Her contributions continue to inspire and drive positive change in the healthcare landscape.