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Dr. Judith Salley
Dr. Judth Salley

Biological & Physical SciencesProfessor and ChairDavis Hall803-536-8509

Judith Salley

Dr. Judfith Salley serves as chair of the South Carolina State University Department of Biological and Physical Sciences where she oversees the administration and operations of the department, faculty, students, and staff. She serves as principal investigator on several federally funded grants.

Education

  • South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, SC, B.S. 1975 Biology
  • The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, M.S.1980 Zoology
  • The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, Ph.D. 1981 Zoology

Background

Dr. Salley is a highly accomplished faculty member with an impressive tenure of 40 years at South Carolina State University. As a full-tenured professor of biology, she has demonstrated excellence in teaching and research throughout her distinguished career.

In addition to her academic role, Dr. Salley has taken on leadership responsibilities as the chairperson of the Department of Biological and Physical Sciences for nearly three decades. Salley's groundbreaking achievements, notably being the first African American female president of the SC Academy of Sciences, a testament to her exceptional leadership and dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the sciences.

Furthermore, Dr. Salley has made a significant impact on the field of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through her role as the Executive Director of the state of SC's Louis Stokes South Carolina Alliance for Minority Participation Program (SCAMP). Over the past 15 years, she has overseen the management and coordination of programs at 12 colleges and universities throughout the state, making valuable contributions to promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM fields.

Dr. Salley's dedication to research and commitment to advancing scientific knowledge are evident through her principal investigator roles in five federally funded research grants. Her research endeavors have secured over $20 million in grant funding for the university, supporting critical scientific investigations and fostering innovation within the academic community.

With a career that spans teaching, research, and leadership, Dr. Salley has left an indelible mark on South Carolina State University and the broader scientific community. Her profound contributions to academia and her commitment to promoting diversity and excellence in STEM fields exemplify the university's core values and make her a true trailblazer in her field.

Research Interests

Cancer Disparities

Honors

  • 2017 Board of Trustees SC Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics 2017
  • WDTS Champions Outreach Program Brookhaven National Laboratory 2016
  • Distinguished Alumni Award Member of Class of 1975
  • 2012 MEAC Distinguished Alumni Service Award