Nicole Williams, PhD
Department of Defense
Dr. Nicole Williams currently manages Autism Research Program (ARP) and the Pancreatic Cancer Research Program (PCARP). As Program Manager, she is responsible for administering the program life cycle to include annual review of the program vision and mission, development and release of research funding opportunities, overseeing the two-tier review of research proposals, and overall program management and evaluation. Since 2015, Dr. Williams has served as a member of several federal committees and working groups. Dr. Williams oversees the management of the ARP which has received over $149million in appropriated funds since its inception in 2007. Additionally, Dr. Williams manages the PCARP which was first initiated in 2020 and has received $51 million in appropriated funds. Both programs seek to fund innovative research that will improve outcomes and the well-being in these communities. Her previous professional experience includes: Science Officer for the CDMRP Breast Cancer Research Program, Biomedical Scientist for Science Applications International Corporation and Chemist at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, within the Malaria Vaccine Development Unit. She earned a BS in Chemical Science from Xavier University. Dr. Williams holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Loyola University, Chicago where her research focused on lithium therapy for bipolar disorder. Her awards include a Civilian Service Achievement Medal.