Dr. Murray is a Professor in the Department of Cell Biology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Dr. Murray has two passions in life: cell biology and diversity in scientific research. She became the first African American woman to be named a full professor at the school. Dr. Murray moved a lot—she earned an undergraduate degree at University of Illinois-Chicago, master’s at Texas Southern University, doctorate at University of Iowa, and post doctorate study at University of California, Riverside before establishing her career in Pittsburgh.
Dr. Murray’s research and diversity efforts expand beyond the United States. She organized a team of female cell biologists and medical students to teach anatomy to students in the Ethiopia Armed Forces Medical Research Institute, and helped to develop the first physician assistant program for Ethiopian medics. Dr. Murray’s passion for knowledge and her interest in biomedical research were motivated by the impact that research can have on the lives of millions of people.
- Post Doc - University of California
- PhD - University of Iowa
- Masters - Texas Southern University
- Undergraduate - University of Illinois-Chicago
Education & Training
Her research focuses on cellular organization and cell to cell communication. Dr. Murray’s current work seeks to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that regulate gap junction plaque assembly, disassembly, and degradation.