Nicole Jimenez graduated from Arizona State University (2014) with a Bachelors in Science with an emphasis in Microbiology. Ms. Jimenez is currently a Ph.D. candidate at Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Medicine. Her graduate work has been centered on microbiome research. Encompassing comparative genomics of vaginal bacteria especially Bifidobacterium species, understanding correlations between the vaginal microbiome  and disease and reproductive health outcomes as well as better understanding maternal-infant microbial transmission. In addition to Nicole’s scientific goals, she is a strong advocate in higher education in regards to implementation of programs around the topic areas of diversity, inclusion and mental well-being for both undergraduate and graduate populations.