Edgar Diaz-cruz PhD

Dr. Edgar S. Diaz-Cruz serves as Professor and Chair of the Department of Pharmaceutical, Social & Administrative Sciences at Belmont University's College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences. He earned his degrees from the University of Puerto Rico and Ohio State University, followed by a post-doctoral fellowship in tumor biology at the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center at Georgetown University. His teaching focuses on Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology (with an emphasis on Pharmacodynamics), Natural Products, and Health Disparities.

Dr. Diaz-Cruz's research centers on understanding the molecular mechanisms and genetic alterations involved in breast cancer development. His translational research aims to improve risk assessment tools and tailor treatment regimens for individualized care. A significant aspect of his work involves studying the correlation between aromatase activity and expression in the mammary gland and the initiation and progression of breast cancer.

Committed to student development, Dr. Diaz-Cruz seeks to help student pharmacists discover their purpose through scientific inquiry, community engagement, humanitarian values, and cultural humility. He has earned a certificate in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion from Cornell University, reflecting his dedication to inclusive excellence in higher education. His mission is to mentor and develop leaders of character and purpose, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset that drives innovative change for community well-being.

Dr. Diaz-Cruz leads by example, inspiring and empowering others to realize their leadership potential. He emphasizes strategic excellence, self-direction, confidence, and empathy in guiding faculty, students, and staff toward a shared vision. His goal is to create an academic environment where innovation thrives, individuals are empowered, collective growth is nurtured, and societal progress is achieved.