Rachel Niemer

Rachel Niemer has established herself as a prominent figure in educational innovation at the University of Michigan, where she currently serves as the Managing Director of the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) program. Her academic foundation combines scientific expertise and gender studies, with a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the California Institute of Technology (2007) and a BA in Chemistry and Women's Studies from Bowdoin College (1999). Her career at Michigan began in 2011 as assistant director at the Center for Research on Learning and Teaching, where she led programs supporting faculty, postdoctoral trainees, and graduate students in improving classroom experiences. In 2015, she joined the Center for Academic Innovation, advancing to Director of Outreach and Access, where she spearheaded diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives while overseeing public engagement initiatives. As Director of the Gameful Learning Lab, she has been instrumental in developing innovative pedagogical approaches that enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. In September 2024, she was appointed as Managing Director of WISE, where she leads activities, programming, and strategic planning to increase participation of women and gender minorities in STEM fields. Her work demonstrates a commitment to creating more equitable and inclusive learning environments while supporting innovative teaching methodologies