Anne Hirshfield, PhD, came to The George Washington University in February 2005. As Associate Vice President for Research, she is responsible for providing leadership in research throughout the University and for assuring that all research at GW is carried out ethically and safely in accordance with regulations and standards. In 2009 she spearheaded the successful reorganization of the Office of the Vice President for Research by streamlining the grants management process and by fostering collaborative research efforts across the University and its affiliates. 

Before coming to GWU, Dr. Hirshfield was Professor of Anatomy and Assistant Dean for Research at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. She conducted research on the development and function of the mammalian ovary and was an NIH-funded researcher for more than 20 years. In addition to her research, Dr. Hirshfield made major contributions to the University of Maryland School of Medicine in the realms of teaching and administration. She taught Anatomy and Embryology to first year medical students for many years. Dr. Hirshfield is a graduate of Swarthmore College and received her PhD from the University of Michigan.