Rebecca Brotman, PhD, MPH, focuses her research on the crucial role of the vaginal microbiome in preventing urogenital infections. Her laboratory investigates a wide range of issues, with particular emphasis on how the vaginal microbiome serves as a protective barrier against various conditions such as bacterial vaginosis. By employing advanced genomic and molecular epidemiological techniques, her research has significantly advanced the understanding of how microbial dynamics in the vaginal environment influence the risk and natural resolution of urogenital infections.   

Dr. Brotman’s research is actively contributing to the development of innovative biomedical strategies, including treatments to prevent and clear sexually transmitted infections (STIs), more effective therapies for bacterial vaginosis (BV), optimized lubricant formulations, and interventions designed to enhance the body’s natural protective mechanisms.  

Dr. Brotman received her Bachelor’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis and completed her MPH and PhD at Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. Through her research, she has mentored over 25 graduate students and post-doctoral fellows, contributing to the next generation of researchers.