Carle Illinois College of Medicine // Genentech/Roche
I am a board-certified ophthalmologist and glaucoma/cataract specialist with deep expertise in clinical research, academic leadership, and pharmaceutical consulting. Currently serving as Lead Medical Director for Early Clinical Drug Development at Genentech, a member of the Roche group, I help lead multidisciplinary teams to support the development of novel, vision-changing therapies for patients with ophthalmic diseases.
My career spans renowned institutions such as Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, and the European Institute of Oncology. With fluency in English, Spanish, Italian, and French, I have cultivated a unique ability to communicate complex clinical concepts across diverse audiences, cultures, and industries, making an impact on a global scale.
With a globally influenced upbringing and career, born on an American military base in Germany and raised in Puerto Rico, I thrive in diverse environments, adapting to new cultures and challenges. I have lived and worked across multiple continents, including conducting cancer research in Milan, working on healthcare initiatives in Senegal, training in cataract surgery in India, and providing medical care on a Navajo reservation. This global exposure has sharpened my ability to collaborate across borders, navigate complex healthcare landscapes, and drive innovative solutions in international settings. Whether in research, clinical practice, or industry, I bring a culturally agile, science-driven approach to advancing healthcare.
Throughout my career, I have led clinical research studies, managed multidisciplinary teams, and co-authored a patent for a novel glaucoma therapy, exemplifying my dedication to driving innovation from research to real-world impact. Beyond the lab, I have partnered with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) and pharmaceutical leadership in global consulting, aligning clinical insights with product strategies to improve therapeutic development.
National and international speaking engagements have been a cornerstone of my career, allowing me to share scientific advancements and foster collaboration across the medical community. These experiences have deepened my commitment to bridging clinical science and the pharmaceutical industry to advance healthcare innovation.
With a medical degree from Columbia University, where I was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society (AOA) after graduating magna cum laude from Harvard College, I combine a strong academic foundation, global communication skills, and a passion for innovation to improve patient outcomes.
