Sue E. Gardner, PhD, FAAN, is a professor at the University of Iowa College of Nursing and head of the Division of Acute and Critical Care. A nationally recognized expert in wound healing and chronic wound infection, her research spans diabetic foot ulcers, wound microbiome, pain management, and multimorbidity. Dr. Gardner’s extensive body of work continues to shape clinical practice and policy in wound care and gerontological nursing, advancing science and improving outcomes for patients with complex health needs. 

Dr. Gardner has led or contributed to numerous funded research projects, including multiple NIH grants, and has authored more than 50 peer-reviewed publications. Her leadership extends to national advisory panels, editorial boards, and grant review committees. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and has received numerous honors, including the Distinguished Nurse Scholar Award from the University of Iowa College of Nursing and the Wound Healing Research Scholarship from the Wound Healing Society. 

At the College of Nursing, Dr. Gardner serves as one of two college division heads, leading, mentoring, and advising more than 50 faculty. She co-directed the NIH-funded Center for Advancing Multimorbidity Science for its five-year duration and has mentored dozens of students. A dedicated educator, she teaches across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, integrating research and clinical expertise into the classroom.

Curriculum Vitae