James E. K. Hildreth

James E.K. Hildreth at Meharry workshop

James E. K. Hildreth is an American immunologist and academic administrator. He is known for his significant contributions to the field of HIV/AIDS research and his leadership in higher education.

Early Life and Education

James E. K. Hildreth was born in Camden, Arkansas. He attended Harvard University, where he earned his undergraduate degree in Chemistry in 1979. Hildreth then went on to receive a Rhodes Scholarship to study at Oxford University, where he earned a Ph.D. in Immunology in 1982. He later obtained his M.D. from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in 1987.

Career

Academic and Research Contributions

Hildreth began his academic career at Johns Hopkins University, where he became a full professor and conducted groundbreaking research on HIV/AIDS. His work focused on the role of lipid rafts in the entry of HIV into host cells, which has implications for the development of new therapeutic strategies.

In 2005, Hildreth joined Meharry Medical College as the Director of the Center for AIDS Health Disparities Research. He later became the Dean of the College of Biological Sciences at the University of California, Davis.

Leadership at Meharry Medical College

In 2015, Hildreth was appointed as the 12th President and Chief Executive Officer of Meharry Medical College, one of the nation's oldest and largest historically black academic health science centers. Under his leadership, the college has expanded its research initiatives and community outreach programs.

Awards and Honors

Hildreth has received numerous awards for his contributions to science and medicine, including election to the National Academy of Medicine and the National Academy of Inventors. He has also been recognized for his efforts to address health disparities and promote diversity in the biomedical sciences.

Personal Life

James E. K. Hildreth is married and has two children. He is actively involved in various community service initiatives and serves on several boards and committees related to public health and education.

See Also

• HIV/AIDS
• Immunology
• Meharry Medical College
• Johns Hopkins University
• Harvard University
• Rhodes Scholarship