Dr. Mercedes Robaina is currently the Director Academic Research at Advocate Aurora Research Institute (AARI), Milwaukee, Wisconsin where she drives the strategic and financial direction of the Academic Research Division which includes Biostatistics and Epidemiology Support Core and Biorepository services. Previously, Dr. Robaina was the Director Research Administration, Education and Community Engagement at the Moffitt Cancer Center, an NCI Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. During her 18-year tenure there, she led the administration of Basic Science labs, Population Health teams, and Research Education and Training, and has developed Community Engagement areas, as well.
Dr. Robaina has been an expert reviewer of research grant applications for USDA NIFA panels and for the Journal of Higher Education Outreach and Engagement. She is a member of National Organization of Research Development Professionals, American Education Research Association, International Society of Learning Sciences, and National Council of University Research Administrators. Dr. Robaina has received multiple awards for her leadership, excellence, and DEI initiatives, and she has been a Certified Research Administrator, as designated by the Research Administrators Certification Council. She has been widely acclaimed and recognized for her professional leadership and seasoned expertise, as well as for her many community contributions.