Carolyn Deal, PhD, is the Chief of the Enteric and Sexually Transmitted Infections Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, USA. In this role, she leads research efforts focused on the diagnosis, control, and prevention of STIs and bacterial enteric infections. This includes coordinating translational research efforts that support the advancement of new diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines. She previously worked at the Office of Vaccines Research and Review within the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, US FDA, as well as at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research. She has worked collaboratively with government agencies, academic and global health institutions to develop innovative approaches to disease prevention and control.