Dr. Ia Gomez

Dr. Ia Gomez earned her Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Córdoba, Spain, where she also completed her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. Following the completion of her doctoral studies, she pursued postdoctoral research in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Connecticut Health Center (UCHC) in Farmington, Connecticut. Dr. Gomez has dedicated more than 20 years to community college education in Virginia, combining a strong scientific background with a passion for teaching, workforce development, and academic leadership. She began her career at Northern Virginia Community College as the Biotechnology Outreach Coordinator and went on to serve in a series of progressively responsible roles, including full-time faculty member in Biology and Biotechnology, Biotechnology Program Head, Assistant Dean of Science, and Associate Dean of Science and Applied Technologies at the Manassas Campus. In 2018, Dr. Gomez joined Laurel Ridge Community College as Dean of Science, Integrated Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), a position she continues to hold. Throughout her career, she has been committed to advancing student success, strengthening the STEM education pipeline, fostering industry and community partnerships, expanding pathways that connect students to high-demand careers, and developing innovative academic and training programs that prepare students for careers in STEM.