Volney Frriedrich is a genetic anthropologist with a PhD whose research sits at the intersection of infectious disease, evolutionary genetics, and sexual health. Her work focuses on identifying mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) lineages associated with increased risk of cervical cancer among individuals infected with human papillomavirus (HPV). Through this research, she aims to contribute to more equitable and accessible sexual health care and to help reduce the stigma surrounding sexual and reproductive health.