Jessica Chichester, Ph.D

Jessica was initiated into SAI by the Sigma Omega chapter at Susquehanna University in Selinsgrove, PA where she majored in Biochemistry and played the Euphonium in the Symphonic Band. Jessica’s service to SAI began as president of her collegiate chapter, for which she was awarded the Sword of Honor and Ruby Sword of Honor. After graduation, Jessica affiliated with the Selinsgrove Alumnae Chapter while pursuing her doctorate in Microbiology and Molecular Virology at Thomas Jefferson University. While in graduate school, she was elected Chi A Province Officer, a position she served in for six years. Jessica was then appointed Region VIII officer by the National President and was grateful to serve in this capacity for an additional six years. In 2014, Jessica was appointed the National Vice-President, Collegiate Chapters, a position that she held for 8 years. Most recently, Jessica was elected National President at the 2022 National Convention, a position that she is honored and humbled to hold. Jessica has been awarded the Rose of Honor, Wreath of Achievement, and the Ring of Excellence. She credits active leadership in SAI with allowing her to keep her passion for music alive in a career full of scientific experiments. Jessica currently lives in Glen Mills, PA and works for the Gene Therapy Program at the University of Pennsylvania as Senior Director of the Immunology Core. She continues to play the Euphonium in community ensembles.