Faculty & Staff
Deidra Russell, PT, DPT, MS
Contact Info
- Academic Email: deidrarussell@usf.edu
Education
- DPT, Doctor of Physical Therapy, Florida A&M University, 2015
- MS, Molecular & Cellular Biology, Florida A&M University, 2011
- BS, Biological Sciences, Florida A&M University, 2009
Biography
Deidra L. Russell, PT, DPT, MS is an Assistant Professor in the USF Health School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences. A three-time alumna of Florida A&M University, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences before pursuing a Master of Science in Molecular/Cellular Biology. Her thesis, Characterization of Gardnerella vaginalis Biofilm and Adherence, and Evaluation of Chemokine Expression Associated with G. vaginalis Infection of Vk2 Vaginal Epithelial Cells, focused on bacterial vaginosis, a common vaginal infection that disproportionately affects African American women. This research ignited her passion for women’s health. Dr. Russell obtained her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2015 with the goal of practicing pelvic floor physical therapy. She has clinical experience in acute care, orthopedics, and pelvic floor rehabilitation. Her research interests include pelvic floor dysfunction in marginalized populations, healthcare professionals' competence in managing pelvic floor dysfunction, and interprofessional education within healthcare. Currently, Dr. Russell is a PhD candidate in Educational Leadership at Florida A&M University.
Memberships
- Member (Florida Physical Therapy Association, 2012 - Present)
- Member (American Physical Therapy Association, 2012 - Present)
- Member (National Association of Black Physical Therapists, 2020 - Present)