Joanna Downer
Coach | Research Development Consultant
Joanna Downer has spent 30 years at the intersection of academic science, communications, and leadership development. After earning her PhD in Nuclear Chemistry from Washington University in St. Louis, she built on her experience as a AAAS Mass Media Fellow and freelancer to serve as a science writer and media relations professional at Duke University, where she was the first staff member dedicated to covering cancer research. She then moved to the Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, where she was charged with developing a science writing and media relations program for the basic biomedical sciences, genetic medicine, and cell engineering.
In 2006 she left media relations and transitioned into academic program management back at Duke University Medical Center. In 2009, she founded the Office of Research Development for the Duke School of Medicine, eventually growing the office to a maximum of five FTEs. Upon her retirement as the medical school’s Associate Dean for Research Development on Sept. 1, 2026, the Office had supported complex and individual grant applications resulting in more than $1.05 Billion in awards.
Joanna has developed and delivered workshops and seminars on grant writing, scientific editing, effective communication, and career planning, as well as other topics relevant to academic researchers at all levels. As an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Certified Professional Coach, she provides coaching services to research-intensive faculty members and staff leaders. She is particularly interested in coaching around career transitions, leadership development, and research program planning.
Joanna is a national leader in the research development profession. She served from 2019-2023 as an elected member of the Board of the National Organization for Research Development Professionals (NORDP), and from 2021-2023 as Secretary of the NORDP Board.