Dr. Alexander has many research interests related to microbial ecology. As a trained microbiologist, her expertise includes parasitology, immunology, and molecular biology. Her publications cover bioremediation, EGFR ligands, Chagas' disease-related pathology, colon cancer, and more. Currently, her lab investigates how natural products may aid in fighting inflammatory diseases like colon cancer, with findings indicating the potential of species-specific probiotics in reducing cancer morbidity and mortality.
Dr. Alexander was Deputy Director for Research at 精东AV鈥檚 Health Disparities Institute, focusing on reducing health disparities in Alabama's Black Belt Counties. Recognized as a White House Champion of Change in 2015 and 2016, she was nominated for a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mentoring in 2020. She has mentored over 190 students.
A prolific grant writer, Dr. Alexander鈥檚 teams have secured millions in funding from agencies such as NIH, USDA/NIFA, and NSF, supporting numerous students' education and research. She teaches over a dozen courses, including bioethics, epidemiology, and environmental health sciences. A member of ASM, AACR, NEHA, and Sigma Xi, she is also active in reviewing for NSF, HHMI, and others. Outside of academia, she enjoys singing, writing, and genealogical research.