Graduate women in science (GWIS) podcasts

We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Meriem Galval Cruz to our latest episode of the GWIS Podcast! With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Cruz has been at the forefront of regulatory strategy and commercialization for the development of small molecules and biologics across a wide range of therapeutic areas. Her expertise includes authoring regulatory submissions and leading the development of applications in the US and Europe, ensuring that crucial medical innovations reach those in need.

Currently at Biogen, Dr. Cruz's impressive career also includes roles as an Associate Director of Regulatory Affairs at Dunn Regulatory Associates and Senior Regulatory Scientist at Cote Orpha, LLC. At the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), she played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academic research and the pharma/biotech industry.

Dr. Cruz holds a PhD in Neuroscience from Emory University and dual BS degrees in Biology and Psychology from Florida State University. Her research, conducted during postdoctoral fellowships at UMB and the National Institutes on Drug Abuse, delved into pharmacotherapies for drug addiction and the pathophysiology of affective disorders.

Excited to introduce Dr. Sushma D.A. Hallock on our latest episode of "Graduate Women in Science"! Dive into the mind of a leader who merges the worlds of science and business with unmatched finesse. From her groundbreaking work to her commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, discover how Dr. Hallock is paving the way for the next generation.

Charlotte Sadaka's career is a remarkable tapestry of scientific achievement and leadership in the life sciences sector. With a Ph.D. in Immunology from the esteemed Curie Institute in Paris, she embarked on a journey that took her from postdoctoral research on groundbreaking immunology to a pivotal role in biotech innovation. At Sorrento Therapeutics in San Diego, Charlotte led complex, cross-functional projects, notably in DNA-based technology and cell therapy for Alzheimer’s Disease. Her work, characterized by innovative solutions and strategic management, was instrumental in advancing pandemic response projects under DARPA funding. Charlotte's journey not only showcases her scientific prowess but also her skill in steering projects to success, earning her multiple accolades and patents, and cementing her as a luminary in the biotech landscape.

Today on GWIS podcast, we are thrilled to have Shrinidhi Ramasubramanian, a computer science engineer from UCI, as our guest. Shrinidhi is a driven and talented individual with a passion for technology and engineering. With a successful start to her career at Hyperloop and now at Mercedes Benz, she brings a wealth of experience to the show. Join us as we delve into Shrinidhi's journey to becoming an engineer, her transition from academia to the workforce, and her future aspirations. It promises to be a fascinating discussion, so don't miss out! We welcome your thoughts and feedback after the show.

Kendi Mwenda, a serial entrepreneur from Nairobi, Kenya shares her adventurous journey that led her to Co-found and be the Principal Designer at Poiema Interiors Limited. Post completion of bachelors degree in Science, Mathematics and Botany, she started her career as the director of client services at Fanaka Catering and events. She started her entrepreneurial journey with Tabasamu Gifts right before the pandemic hit. Kendi Mwenda, through Poiema Interiors Limited, is surfing the wave of change in the construction industry in Kenya.

JoAnn T. Jackson aka Jo, world's very first Vision Realization Officer (VRO), shares her adventurous journey that lead her to IPM, a place she calls her "Professional home". Over the years, she has helped IPM grow from a three-person firm in a 650-square-foot office to the national company it is today.

As IPM's Vision Realization Officer, Jo investigates, recommends, and implements strategies to help realize IPM’s vision of becoming a hundred-year company. Jo began her career with 10 years at a division of Johnson & Johnson, the last three years with IPM founder Rich Panico, and culminating as Plant Controller. Jo spent several years operating as an independent accounting service. She holds a Bachelors in Science and an MBA from Eastern Illinois University. She serves on the Board of Trustees of Everest Academy Lemont, is active in her church community, and serves on a variety of boards and committees.

Dr. Shenda Baker is an experienced entrepreneur, inventor and a scientist with expertise in polymer physics, macromolecular and surface chemistry and nanostructured materials. Dr Baker served as CEO for Synspira, bringing the first Synedgen licensed technology into clinical trials for inhaled treatment for patients with cystic fibrosis. Dr. Baker was a professor of Chemistry at Harvey Mudd College from 1991-2014 with a research focus on polymer nanostructures and self-assembly at liquid and solid interfaces. She has held strategic positions on the Board of Directors of the Materials Research Society and has served on advisory boards with the National Institutes of Health at the National Institutie for Dental and Cranofacial Research, National Science Foundation at the directorates of Math and Physical Sciences, Computer and Information Science and Engineering, the Advisory Committee for Cyber Infrastructure and at the Department of Energy. Dr. Baker is a member of the American Chemical Society and the Materials Research Society and currently serves on the Advisory Council of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research of the NIH.