Dr. Ononogbo is a public health researcher, clinical microbiologist, and educator with more than 18 years of experience in teaching, laboratory science, research, and applied public health practice. She earned her Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) from Morgan State University and brings multidisciplinary expertise in public health workforce development, infectious diseases, maternal and child health, environmental health, and community-engaged research.
Her work integrates microbiology, epidemiology, health education, and population health research to address complex public health challenges. Her doctoral research contributes to global public health workforce development by examining how professional expertise, mentorship, institutional support, and professional identity can strengthen the integration of health professionals into public health practice.
Dr. Ononogbo’s research interests include maternal and child health, infectious disease prevention and surveillance, environmental health, social determinants of health, autism spectrum disorder, healthy aging, and dementia. Her applied public health experience includes work with the Maryland Department of Health’s Infectious Diseases Bureau, the HBCU Alliance Team for Maternal and Child Health, and the Association of State Public Health Nutritionists. She is also a member of the Maryland HIV Planning Group, contributing to stakeholder engagement and HIV prevention and care planning in Maryland.
As a scientist and educator, Dr. Ononogbo is committed to strengthening the public health workforce, translating research into practice, and advancing interdisciplinary approaches to disease prevention, health promotion, and population health.