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A new product launch, a clinical study, or regulatory submission are all examples of projects in life sciences.

In performing their jobs, PMs in the life sciences are taking on more cross-functional responsibilities. And while asked to wear many hats, they must still ensure the final product or program is delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance.

Our experienced panelists will share their knowledge and tips on how to drive and successfully complete projects in all phases of the life sciences industry.

 

Agenda

5:30 PM Registration/Networking & Beverages

6:45 PM Complimentary Buffet Dinner and Announcements

7:15 PM Speaker Presentations, Q&A

8:30 PM Closing

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John Beaber, Ph.D., PMP-Senior Project Manager, Research and Development - Senti Biosciences. (Moderator)

After 12+ years as a research scientist and leader focused on early research and discovery in the biotechnology world, John took his leadership skills and broad scientific knowledge into Project Management. His diverse experiences in antibody discovery and development, cell therapies, small molecules and phage therapy have exposed him to a wide array of therapeutic modalities and developmental challenges. He recently also added experience managing clinical development of therapeutics. He now works as a Senior Project Manager of early research at Senti Biosciences.

John's project management skills developed organically while serving the needs of his organization. Training for the Project Management Professional formalized John's ability to bring structure, enhance communication and mitigate risks. He also enjoys mentoring students and other professionals in biotechnology.

Stephen Smith- Director, Project Management at 23andMe

Stephen has 25+ years of professional experience in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry working in multiple therapeutic areas and indications in neurology, virology, oncology, and gene therapy for rare diseases. He started his career in clinical operations and moved to program management to oversee the full life cycle, from clinical drug development through commercialization. He has the proven ability to lead and influence data-driven strategy planning and implementation, lead effectively within complex matrix organizations with multiple stakeholders and international team members, and focus a team to work towards program goals and corporate strategic objectives in start ups and mid size companies. In his free time he studies art history, archaeology, and religions and has a passion for iconography and modern art theory. He shares this passion with students in the Bay Areas as a school programs docent at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco. His penultimate role and top priority is to be the best possible father to his daughter.

Amisha Patel, MBA – Director Portfolio and Project Management at Jaguar Health, Inc.

Amisha Patel is a Director of Portfolio and Project Management at Jaguar Health in San Francisco reporting to the CEO. Amisha holds a chemistry degree from Cardiff University, UK, and MBA, USA.

With 25+ years’ experience, she started her career as a medicinal lab chemist at Schering-Plough and with increasing responsibility to Program management in smaller biotech companies. She has managed biologicals, small molecule, polymer and currently the first FDA approved botanical plant-based medicine. Ranging from vials, capsules, prefilled syringes, topical creams, kits, multi-use pen in the following therapeutic areas: GI (SBS, Cancer Therapy -related Diarrhea), Immunology, Enzyme replacement therapy, Immunoncology (Breast, Brain), pain management.

Amisha’s role includes structure, communication skills, managing timelines, risk management, managing program spend, supporting CEO (Board meeting) and maintaining strong global matrix teams and workstreams.

Han Zhang, Ph.D.- Director, Program management at Synthekine

After many years working as a bench scientist pursuing her phd and postdoc, Han decided to shift her career to program management. She started as a scientific project manager at a contract research organization, leveraging her technical background and analytical skills. Since then she has been primarily working on early stage drug development programs in immuno-oncology. Han leads core teams and works with cross functional representatives (research and discovery, preclinical, CMC, regulatory, clinical development, clinical operations, quality, legal, business development, finance, supply chain, and operations) to develop program strategy and operational plan (timeline, budget, resource, scenario planning, change and risk management), and drive programs from new product planning to clinical proof of concept. Han has two daughters and is trying her best to be a role model for them.