Dr. Frances Colón is the Deputy Science and Technology Adviser to the Secretary of State. She promotes the integration of science and technology into foreign policy dialogues, global scientific engagement for capacity-building, the advancement of women in science, and innovation as a tool for economic growth around the world.
During her time as Deputy Adviser, Dr. Colón has overseen the creation of the Networks of Diasporas in Engineering and Science (NODES) initiative to empower diasporas with science expertise to develop and influence effective policies and solve challenges in their countries of origin. Previously, Dr. Colón served the Department of State as the Science and Environment Advisor for Latin American and Caribbean affairs where she focused on environmental and scientific issues affecting foreign policy objectives in this region.
Dr. Colón earned her Ph.D. in Neuroscience in 2004 from Brandeis University by studying peripheral nervous system development in mammals. She earned her B.S. in Biology in 1997 from the University of Puerto Rico where her passion for science was sparked as an undergraduate researcher. Below we share some of her other major accomplishments:
Innovating in her field:
● Utilizes expertise as a scientist to build bridges between science, technology, and innovation and high-level decision-makers in the U.S. and around the world
● First executive branch official to meet with Cuban science and environment ministries in Cuba in more than 50 years
● Launched a series of emerging technology briefings for senior decision-makers to interpret the potential foreign policy impact of disruptive technology trends.
Impact:
● An ambassador for the power of science, technology, and innovation as diplomacy tools
● Represented the U.S. Government as Vice-Chair of the United Nations Commission on Science and Technology for Development
● Launched Cenadores Puerto Rico, a nonprofit that harnesses the connections and expertise of the Puerto Rican diaspora to empower civil society on the island.
Role model:
● An outspoken advocate for women/girls to pursue leadership roles in STEM
● One of the highest-ranking Hispanic women in foreign policy
● Launched a women leadership series as a board member of the University of Puerto Rico Alumni and Friends Abroad
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