Elizabeth Tuck appointed director of NHGRI’s Education and Community Involvement Branch

Elizabeth Tuck, M.A., has been appointed director of the Education and Community Involvement Branch at the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), part of the National Institutes of Health.

The Education and Community Involvement Branch (ECIB), within the NHGRI Division of Genomics and Society, develops programs aimed at strengthening public understanding of genomics and related issues, such as the ethical, legal and social implications of genomic advances. Tuck’s appointment as ECIB director marks her return to NHGRI, where she previously was first recipient of the Genetics Education and Engagement Fellowship, sponsored jointly by NHGRI and the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG).

“Beth has demonstrated excellent leadership and creativity in science education in multiple environments,” said NHGRI Director Eric Green, M.D., Ph.D. “I am thrilled about her return to NHGRI, where she will provide her expertise in developing and implementing genomics education programs that target a wide variety of learners.”

Tuck began her career pursuing biomedical research, earning a master’s degree in molecular biology from Washington University in St. Louis. Since transitioning to her focus on education, Tuck has worked with institutions such as the St. Louis Science Center and ASHG, where she developed accessible curricula and programs on highly relevant yet complicated genomics topics.

Most recently, Tuck served as executive director and director of science education at Genspace, the world’s first community biology lab in Brooklyn. There, Tuck taught hands-on genomics workshops; led a team of over 100 instructors, volunteers and other staff; and coordinated with over 60 key partners, such as schools, universities, youth-serving groups and other community-based organizations to expand access to emerging biotechnologies.

Tuck’s comprehensive experience in genomics education will complement the diverse activities of ECIB. Additionally, with her previous involvement in several genomics education programs aimed at people who are historically underrepresented in the sciences, Tuck is well-equipped to aid NHGRI’s efforts to foster a more diverse genomics workforce.

“The field of genomics has been undergoing tremendous growth and evolution over the past three decades,” said Tuck. “This comes with a growing need for meaningful, creative education and community engagement programming from trusted sources, and I am very excited to return to NHGRI to build the forefront of genomics education.”

Tuck began her appointment as branch director on June 20, 2023.