Meet Duke's new faculty of 2021: Dr. Candis Smith and Dr. Kevin Richardson

More than 100 new scholars joined the Duke faculty in 2021; though their expertise and interests cover a wide range of disciplines, the common denominator among them is excellence. The expertise they bring to Duke will enhance areas of existing strength and help propel the university forward in other fields identified as strategic priorities. This year’s new faculty also reflect the university’s commitment to hiring for inclusive excellence and advancing and expanding Duke’s teaching and scholarship related to social and racial equity. 

“Whether it’s developing technology to advance brain surgery or diversifying and enriching our understanding of human psychology, our new faculty are addressing challenging problems in new ways,” said Duke Provost Sally Kornbluth. “We’re excited about the new perspectives they bring and the powerful questions they are asking, and I expect they will help shape the direction of the university for years to come.” 

Below, nine new faculty members discuss what they find meaningful about their scholarship and teaching. For more new faculty stories from across the university, see Duke Today’s new faculty series. 

Learn more about Dr. Candis Smith and Dr. Kevin Richardson here.