Dr. Shomita S. Steiner is the Director of Scientific Operations for the McGowan Institute. She also holds a faculty appointment as Assistant Professor, Department of Surgery. Dr. Steiner has a PhD in Microbiology from Miami University and postdoctoral training from the Wadsworth Center and the Albany Medical Center in Albany, NY. Dr. Steiner is tasked with strategic scientific vision planning and organization of scientific operations, including communication, engagement, and reporting with federal agencies, non-federal agencies, and industry. Additionally, Dr. Steiner has extensive experience in managing scientific linkages with intra and extramural research groups and supporting center funding initiatives and innovation.