Shawntel Okonkwo, PhD

Dr. Shawntel Okonkwo is a scientific design strategist, science communicator, keynote speaker and PhD Molecular Biologist. She empowers organizations by blending evidence-based design principles with scientific expertise to design transformative products, communicate value, scale technology partnerships and drive impactful change in public policy. Many know Dr. Okonkwo from her 2019 TEDx Talk, where she explored the role of intersectionality in reshaping STEM industries, or as the founder of a pioneering community platform that forges public-private partnerships to uplift the next generation of scientists and engineers. Her work resonates across sectors--biopharma, government, and philanthropy--as she continues to partner with forward-thinking industry and academic leaders to foster innovation and inclusivity. With over a decade of experience working with global biotech firms, as well as respected institutions including the Smithsonian, the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and LA Mayor Karen Bass, National Human Genomics Research Institute at NIH, National Science Policy Network, Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science at Stonybrook University and the AAAS, she has established herself as a sought-after consultant, speaker, and advisor. Dr. Okonkwo brings a rare combination of analytical rigor and empathy, engaging diverse stakeholders with her systems-thinking approach, deep listening and human-centered expertise in multiomics, gene regulation, and AI applications in biomedical R&D. Her work inspires the current and next generation of innovators—positioning Dr. Okonkwo as a vibrant keynote speaker, strategic consultant, and catalyst for positive change. She is available for high-impact speaking engagements, training, and consulting to help organizations communicate complex ideas for sustained ROI and elevating the human experience in STEM.