On September 26, 2024, the NIH Oxford-Cambridge Scholars and Alumni embarked on an enriching visit to Regeneron, fostering connections between future scientific leaders and established experts in biotechnology. Hosted at Regeneron’s headquarters, the visit featured a full day of discussions, presentations, and networking opportunities that highlighted the ongoing collaborative spirit between academic and industry research.
The day began with a warm welcome and light breakfast, followed by an introduction to Regeneron and its prestigious Postdoctoral Program by Susan Croll, Co-Director of the program, and Devon Southwick, Postdoctoral Program Coordinator. The Scholars had the chance to learn about cutting-edge research opportunities and career pathways at Regeneron.
Regeneron scientists Ido Rippon, Judith Altarejos, Chunguang Guo, Kalyani Nambiar, and David DiLillo presented their work in a series of engaging talks, offering insights into the research driving the company’s innovative efforts in immunology, genetics, neuroscience, and oncology.
Lunch provided an opportunity for informal discussions before transitioning into the afternoon agenda, which spotlighted Scholar-led initiatives. Anagha Krishnan, Hannah Dada, and Chiara Benetollo led a presentation on the “Science Unlocked” program. System-impacted youth, particularly in STEM, face poorer educational outcomes due to a lack of hands-on learning opportunities in prison curriculums, prompting the creation of “Science Unlocked”, a series of monthly science demonstrations at the Youth Services Center in DC. IBRA Director of Engagement and Events, Alexandra Ambrico, introduced IBRA’s mission, impact and reach, and their new network for international researchers.
A key highlight of the afternoon was the Scholars’ scientific presentations, where Anagha Krishnan, Hannah Dada, Sooraj Achar, and Henry Taylor shared their cutting edge research. Alumni Hannah Mason and Adjoa Smalls-Mantey discussed their research and careers. These sessions provided a platform for both Scholars and Alumni to showcase their work and engage in thought-provoking discussions with Regeneron scientists.
The day concluded with a closing reception, offering the group an opportunity to network with George Yancopoulos, Regeneron’s co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer, and other members of the Regeneron team.
This visit underscores the importance of collaboration between industry and academia in advancing biomedical research. Both Scholars and Regeneron scientists gained valuable insights, and the event highlighted the alignment of their scientific goals, particularly in the realms of biomedical innovation and education. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Regeneron for their generous support and commitment, which has been instrumental in advancing our efforts to make a meaningful impact in supporting biomedical research leaders.
The International Biomedical Research Alliance invited esteemed guests to University College London (UCL) to commemorate the eminent achievements of our 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient, Professor Jonathan Roiser.
Event Highlights:
Attendees had the opportunity to engage in a guided tour of UCL, offering a fascinating glimpse into the institution’s rich history and innovative endeavors. This event brought together alumni, faculty, and notable guests alike. Following the tour, attendees partook in a delightful lunch, fostering camaraderie and networking opportunities.
About Professor Jonathan Roiser:
Professor Jonathan Roiser stands as a beacon of excellence, exemplifying the transformative impact of interdisciplinary research and academic pursuit. Graduating as the first Scholar from the University of Cambridge arm of the NIH Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program in 2005, Professor Roiser’s journey has been marked by profound dedication and groundbreaking contributions to the field of neuroscience.
Under the mentorship of Prof. Barbara Sahakian and Dr. Wayne Drevets, Professor Roiser embarked on a pioneering exploration into the neurobiological underpinnings of emotion processing in depression. His groundbreaking psychopharmacological neuroimaging experiment paved the way for a deeper understanding of serotonin modulation in the brain, charting new pathways for innovative treatments.
Following his graduation, Professor Roiser embarked on a post-doctoral position at the Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging at University College London (UCL). Guided by world-renowned experts in neuroimaging, Professor Roiser swiftly ascended to a faculty position at the UCL Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, where he established the Neuroscience and Mental Health group—a testament to his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence.
In 2013, Professor Roiser’s pioneering contributions were further recognized when he became the youngest ever Wellcome Trust Senior Investigator, receiving a £1 million grant to spearhead extensive research programs focused on motivational dysfunction in depression and innovative treatment modalities. His groundbreaking work in computational psychiatry has cemented his status as a global leader in the field of biological psychiatry, shaping the trajectory of research and innovation for generations to come.
Professor Roiser’s enduring legacy extends beyond his research endeavors, as he continues to mentor and inspire future generations of scholars. His instrumental role in founding and directing two prestigious PhD programs—the UCL-NIMH Joint Doctoral Training Program in Neuroscience and the UCL-Wellcome 4-year PhD in Mental Health Science—underscores his unwavering commitment to nurturing the next wave of scientific innovators.
Join Us:
Join us in celebrating the remarkable achievements of Professor Jonathan Roiser—an exemplary scholar, visionary leader, and tireless advocate for scientific excellence. Together, let us honor his legacy and chart new pathways toward a future defined by innovation, collaboration, and discovery.
In an era defined by rapid advancements in biomedical research and innovation, cultivating the next generation of scientific leaders has never been more crucial. Recognizing this imperative, we designed a Career Development and Exploration Initiative for the NIH Oxford-Cambridge, Gates-Cambridge, and Rhodes Scholars to AstraZeneca. This Initiative aimed to empower Scholars to showcase their research, foster interdisciplinary collaborations, and chart bold new pathways in biomedical research and industry.
A Day of Insight and Inspiration:
Against the backdrop of AstraZeneca’s state-of-the-art facilities in Cambridge, UK, eleven exceptional Scholars embarked on an engaging journey of exploration and enlightenment. Dr. Richard Goodwin, Principal Scientist & Mass Spectrometry Imaging Lead at AstraZeneca, set the tone with an illuminating overview of the company’s mission, values, and pioneering initiatives. As the Scholars absorbed his insights, their anticipation for the day’s events grew.
The highlight of the morning was a mesmerizing tour of the Discovery Centre (DISC), where Scholars were immersed in a world of scientific wonder. Led by alumna and IBRA Alumni Director Dr. Coralie Viollet and Dr. Andreas Dannhorn, the tour offered a firsthand look at AstraZeneca’s innovative research efforts.
Following a luncheon, the Scholars took center stage, showcasing their research prowess through captivating presentations. Each Scholar’s project offered a unique window into the vast landscape of biomedical inquiry, underscoring the depth and diversity of talent within the NIH Oxford-Cambridge, Gates-Cambridge, and Rhodes Scholars Programs.
As the day progressed, Scholars delved into the realm of postdoctoral opportunities, guided by esteemed professionals whose personal anecdotes and sage advice illuminated the path forward. The afternoon session culminated in a riveting discussion featuring AstraZeneca’s Early Career Scientists, who shared their invaluable insights and firsthand experiences, inspiring Scholars to pursue their aspirations with vigor and determination.
Fostering Connections and Collaboration:
Scholars seized the opportunity to forge meaningful connections during a vibrant networking session. Bonds were forged, ideas were exchanged, and aspirations were nurtured, laying the groundwork for future collaborations and partnerships.
As the day drew to a close, Scholars departed AstraZeneca feeling inspired and hopeful about the possibilities ahead. The transformative experiences of the day served as catalysts for growth and exploration, propelling Scholars toward a future defined by innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence.
Charting a Course for the Future:
The collaboration between IBRA, the Scholars and AstraZeneca signifies a significant advancement in the field of biomedical research with academia, nonprofits, and industry. Through immersive experiences, insightful discussions, and valuable networking opportunities, Scholars are equipped to realize their full potential and undertake meaningful journeys of discovery. This partnership lays the groundwork for future advancements in biomedical innovation. With a strong commitment to excellence, today’s Scholars are well-positioned to contribute to scientific progress and shape the future of the industry.
For Further Information:
For further information about the Career Development and Exploration Initiative or upcoming events, please visit our website or contact our Director of Communication, Education, and Professional Development, Alexandra Ambrico, directly at ajambrico@biomedalliance.org. Together, let us continue to explore new horizons and redefine the boundaries of possibility in biomedical research and industry.
In a significant partnership with the International Biomedical Research Alliance (IBRA), leading biotechnology company Regeneron recently hosted an exclusive Career Development and Exploration Initiative for NIH Oxford-Cambridge Scholars in New York. The two bodies posed challenging scientific and medical queries to the participating Scholars and considered their ideas on pushing scientific boundaries.
Scholars with aspirations to forge new pathways in science and steer potential cures through the clinical process journeyed to New York. Here they visited Regeneron’s facilities and met with the alumni of the NIH Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program who are currently based at prominent research centers including Rockefeller University, Memorial Sloan Kettering, and the Flatiron Institute.
In the course of the initiative, fourth-year Scholars John Hancock, Asmay Gharia, Sahba Seddighi, and Kritika Singh had the opportunity to meet and glean advice from program alumni like Drs. Dan Bronder, Mike Gormally, and Sonya Hanson. They shared their transition experiences from graduate students to working professionals in the science field. Furthermore, Dr. Anita Gola welcomed the Scholars to Rockefeller University for a tour and discussion session with other resident scientists.
At Regeneron, Scholars were presented with the company’s history by Dr. Susan Croll, along with information about the Postdoctoral Program opportunities. Regeneron scientists, Drs. Craig Meagher, Joe Odeochu, Sarah Ebstein, and Dylan Kwart, also gave insights into working within the biotech firm and joined a lunch session with co-founder, President, and CSO, Dr. George Yancopoulos. The visit underscored Regeneron’s unrivaled capacity for consistently turning scientific theory into medical practice, a prowess that has led to a myriad of FDA-approved treatments for a wide spectrum of diseases. The Scholars rounded off their visit with presentations of their own work and plans for possible future collaboration with Regeneron.
In summing up the visit, IBRA Director Dr. Ralph Korpman hosted a riveting cocktail and dinner party co-hosted with IBRA Chairman Mr. Steve McLean, welcoming both Scholars, Alumni, and prominent scientists and physicians, some of whom were Nobel laureates.
This fall, the NIH Oxford-Cambridge (OxCam) Scholars were invited to Boston, MA for a Career Development and Exploration Initiative. Scholars curious about entrepreneurship and creating the next disruptive life science startup had the opportunity to visit Flagship Pioneering. Their goal is to create, resource, and build life sciences companies that invent breakthrough technologies to transform health care and sustainability. While at Flagship, Dr. Brad Coleman provided an overview of the Fellowship Program, which offers an unparalleled opportunity to apply scientific expertise, entrepreneurial talent, and a self-starter mentality toward creating the next world-changing startups and ventures in human health and sustainability. The Scholars met with previous Flagship Fellows and presented their research to current Flagship Associates. Following presentations, Former Flagship Fellow and Associate Director, Product Concept Explorations & Clinical Development at Pioneering Medicines Dr. Krystian Kozek invited the Scholars to tour Pioneering Medicines and answered their questions about his experiences and career path as an MD/PhD.
We asked the Scholars to consider how they could use the power of data science with AI/ML, genetics/genomics, and human-based experimental models. To better understand these intersections, the Scholars visited Flagship-founded Vesalius Therapeutics. Their goal is to elegantly combine human data, genetics and genomics information, artificial intelligence and machine learning, and proprietary experimental models to redefine how we think about and treat common illnesses. Vesalius Therapeutics leadership Dr. Chris Austin and Dr. Ben Munoz provided an overview and organized a meet and greet with their scientists. Dr. Chris Austin, who served most recently as the founding director of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), shared his vast experiences through clinical medicine, academia, and industry over the last 30 years and provided insight for the Scholars.
The Scholars had the opportunity to converse with NIH OxCam Alumni throughout their time in Boston. Dr. Lynda Truong, Strategy Lead at the Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research arranged a tour for the Scholars. Drs. Brennan Decker, Michael Chen, Andrew Ishizuka, Molly Perkins, and Andrei Ramirez-Valdez chatted with the Scholars, sharing their experiences in industry, venture capital, entrepreneurship, and residency. MD/PhD Scholar Yasemin Cole and PhD Scholar Henry Taylor remarked on Brennan Decker’s reinforcement of staying connected to the NIH OxCam Program even upon graduation. Even though he graduated multiple years ago, Brennan keeps in touch with many OxCammers in Boston (not just those from his time in the Program) and has even helped several start their companies! PhD Scholar Christian Lantz shared that keeping a network of extremely impressive people will only help in the future!
Alumnus Dr. Stan Wang, CEO & Founder of Thymmune Therapeutics, a biotechnology company developing a machine learning-enabled thymic cell engineering platform to restore normal immune function in aging and disease, met with the Scholars at LabCentral, a first-of-its-kind shared laboratory space designed as a launchpad for high-potential life-sciences and biotech startup. MD/PhD Scholar Dalton Hermans shared, “Meeting with Stan was a highlight of the trip for me. I feel, as an alumnus of the program, the tone of the conversation was a bit more candid. For that reason, I feel we learned a lot more about the technical aspects of start-up. I wrote down something Stan said that I have been thinking a lot about ever since, which is essentially, ‘In academia, scientists start with a solution that they have come up with and try to apply that to a disease and/or problem they can use it for. In biotech, scientists start with a need and/or problem for which there is a current therapeutic or economic gap and then try to come up with a solution to that need and/or problem.’ PhD Scholar Ray Smith remarked on the opportunities to learn about the intersection of biotech and academia and appreciated the range of experiences of the Alumni throughout the trip.
The International Biomedical Research Alliance is committed to providing Career Development and Exploration Initiatives to Scholars in the NIH Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program. These initiatives aim to ignite Scholar thinking around career opportunities where they can play a key role in the future of biomedical research enterprise. Please contact Alexandra Ambrico, Director of Communication, Education, and Professional Development, at ajambrico@biomedalliance.org if you would like to be involved in hosting future exposure visits.
On February 24th, 2023, sixteen NIH Oxford-Cambridge (OxCam) Scholars, from first- to final-year graduate students, had the opportunity to visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER). IBRA Board Director Dr. Kathryn Zoon, who served as the FDA CBER Principal Deputy Director (and first female Director) from 1992-2002, paved the path for the NIH OxCam Scholars to visit the FDA as a Career Development and Exploration Initiative. Scholars had the opportunity to learn about CBER’s role in integrating innovative science with regulations to protect public health. In addition to Dr. Zoon, included on the career exploration planning team were Scholar-lead organizer, Marya Sabir, NIH OxCam Scholars Program leadership, Dr. Kristi Porter, Dr. Racquel Collins, Kara Rothberg, Dr. Elodie Ghedin, Dr. Sonja Best and FDA’s Dr. Karen Elkins and Dr. Monica (Burts) Young. Alexandra Ambrico, Director of Communications, Education, and Professional Development represented the sponsor International Biomedical Research Alliance on the planning committee.
CBER is the Center within FDA that regulates biological products for human use and both protects and advances public health by ensuring that biological products are safe, effective, and available to all. Dr. Karen Elkins, CBER’s Associate Director for Science and Principal Investigator, provided welcome remarks and gave an overview of the FDA and CBER, including its history and current-day operations. Within CBER, there are 65 lead investigators whose research ranges from basic to targeted therapy studies. She described the different phases of drug approval and shared how less than 10% of drugs make it past the New Drug Application (IND) phase. IND is a request from a clinical study sponsor to obtain authorization from the FDA to administer an investigational drug or biological product to humans and is the first submission on the drug development timeline.
Following Dr. Elkins’ talk, the Scholars embarked on tours of the laboratories and research facilities. Scholars had the opportunity to ask questions and learn more from the research staff, engaging in small group discussions with CBER Principal Investigators with a range of expertise from vaccines to blood/blood products. “I never knew the extent of the collaborative research that the FDA performed until today,” remarked Class of 2018 Ph.D. Scholar Taylor Farley.
Dr. Young provided an overview of training and career opportunities at the FDA, beginning with the organization of the FDA. She highlighted professional career paths at the FDA, mission-critical occupations, how to apply for these fellowships and jobs, and the different paths to the FDA. Poorva Jain, a Class of 2022 M.D./Ph.D. Scholar commented, “This visit helped me better understand the dynamics of how a career at the FDA looks and also the people involved in monitoring and assessing novel therapies. It made the FDA go from a black box entity to a really comprehensive and dynamic research and regulatory institute. It was an unparalleled opportunity to network with some outstanding scientists”.
To conclude the Career Development and Exploration Initiative at the FDA, a training and careers panel and networking session was held. The panel discussion included postdoctoral fellows, biologists, reviewers, and investigators to share their backgrounds and current research. The networking session included panelists and additional principal investigators to engage with the scholars. Marya Sabir, a Class of 2019 Ph.D. Scholar notes, “I left inspired by the innovative research and fundamental regulatory work being done by CBER investigators. Not only are they safeguarding the public’s health with their work, but they are also pushing the frontiers of science – it is truly a unique place.”
The International Biomedical Research Alliance is committed to providing Career Development and Exploration Initiatives to Scholars in the NIH Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program. The goal of these initiatives is to ignite Scholar thinking around career opportunities where they can play a key role in the future of biomedical research enterprise. Please reach out to our Director of Communication, Education, and Professional Development, Alexandra Ambrico, at aja@biomedalliance.org if you would like to be involved in hosting future exposure visits.
