About Us
Christiann Gaines, PhD
UNC PREP Director
Dr. Christiann Gaines is originally from Trinidad & Tobago and is a dedicated scientist and educator with a strong foundation in research, mentorship, and advocacy. After completing a BS in Biochemistry at Claflin University, where she developed an interest in translational research, Dr. Gaines advanced her expertise through a two-year post-baccalaureate program with Novartis and Harvard, focusing on progeria. She earned her PhD in Neuroscience from UNC Chapel Hill, where she investigated genetic and environmental influences on cocaine response and developed a passion for student advocacy and mentoring.
In her career, Dr. Gaines has committed to supporting students across scientific disciplines through mentoring, community-building, and promoting career readiness. Currently, as Director of UNC PREP, Assistant Director of Doctoral Success & IMSD, & Director of Summer Pre-Baccalaureate Initiatives she emphasizes student success, advising, and program development. Her overarching goal is to impact scientists by fostering inclusive support systems, advocating for students, and enhancing career preparation initiatives.
UNC PREP LEADERSHIP TEAM
Jose Rodriguez-Romaguera, PhD
Co-PI & Faculty Leader
Dr. Rodriguez-Romaguera supports PREP scholars throughout the program year with academic advising, leading group sessions, providing feedback and assessment of core skills needed for graduate training. His strong professional interest to increase diversity across the scientific workforce is demonstrated by his passion to mentor several PREP scholars in recent years.
Dr. Robinson serves to support PREP scholars from recruitment to completion of the program. During the program year, Dr. Robinson leads several professional development sessions, aids in the administrative tasks and onboarding of PREP scholars. Dr. Robinson has also mentored several UNC PREP scholars in her lab over the years. In this role she serves to support the development of future biomedical science leaders, promotes innovative recruitment and training, stimulates purposeful career development, remove barriers to success, and fosters a collaborative, inclusive research community.
Donita Robinson, PhD
Co-PI
Kaitlin Blakemore, M.A.
Program Coordinator
As PREP coordinator, Kaitlin handles the onboarding of PREP cohorts each year. She also assists the PREP scholars with course enrollment, health insurance enrollment, tuition and fee payments, course management, and providing additional assistance to PREP students throughout the year. Additionally, Kaitlin supports the BBSP first year training program, BBSP admissions and recruitment.
Cynthia Thomas
Immunology & Microbiology Graduate Student
