VFDP-5 VITA-FAST Project Lead Re-Election

TL/DR

Logan Bishop-Currey @Logan BC is being nominated to take over from Benji Leibowitz, given her superior expertise in translational research and commercial knowledge.

Expertise

Charles River Laboratories

At Charles River Laboratories, Logan held several scientific roles advancing her practical understanding of drug discovery across a wide range of diseases.

Optimization of Genome Screening: Logan's work on siRNA screening for indirect modulators of the Huntingtin protein in a human embryonic stem cell (hESCs) model of Huntington’s disease is particularly relevant. This experience reflects her deep understanding of genetic manipulation techniques, which are crucial for exploring autophagy pathways in neurological diseases. Previous lab experience from her MSc focused on manipulation of HepaRG liver cells to create a bioartificial liver and proteomic profiling of patient-derived colorectal cancer samples for identification of novel biomarkers.

Independent Project Management: Leading multiple client projects at Charles River Laboratories, Logan demonstrated her ability to manage multiple research initiatives, a skill that directly translates to overseeing the multiple experiments being run in parallel with Newcastle and future collaborators.

Technical Proficiency: Her expertise in a wide array of molecular research techniques, including high throughput screening, siRNA transfection, and generation of iPSC-derived cortical neurons, is invaluable experience that is required of the Project Lead. Training and Leadership: Logan's experience in training junior staff and leading research teams showcases her leadership and mentorship skills, essential for guiding a diverse team of academics and industry professionals.

HHV Biotech During her time as a Scientific Operations Manager at HHV Biotech, Logan's responsibilities and achievements were pivotal in shaping her as an ideal leader of VITA-FAST:

Project Management and Coordination: At HHV Biotech, Logan was responsible for managing scientific projects from conception to completion. This involved coordinating with various stakeholders, aligning project goals with company objectives, and ensuring timely and efficient project execution.

Defining Research Direction: Logan played a key role in setting research directions. Her ability to identify and pursue innovative research avenues is crucial for the cutting-edge work required here.

Building External Relationships: Her experience in developing and maintaining relationships with external partners, stakeholders, and clients is a testament to her strong communication and negotiation skills, which are vital for establishing collaborations for VITA-FAST. She worked with both academic and industry partners, and learned how to manage both.

Operations Management: Logan's expertise in managing the operational aspects of scientific projects ensured that resources were effectively allocated, and research activities were aligned with the broader strategic goals. This skill set is essential for the resource-intensive translational work being performed in this project.

Academic and Professional Background

Biomedical science (MSc): Her scientific background lays the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding and exploring autophagy. MBA: Provides her with a comprehensive understanding of commercialization, marketing strategies, and business operations. Aligning with Vita-Fast DAO’s Mission Logan's extensive experience, particularly at Charles River Laboratories and HHV Biotech, underscores her suitability for leading a project that lies at the intersection of cutting-edge scientific research and commercial viability.

Her background equips her to: Advance Research: Drive innovative research in autophagy and neurological diseases, leveraging her technical expertise and experience in small molecule screening and cellular manipulation. Navigate Commercial Challenges: Utilize her MBA knowledge and industry experience to guide the project from discovery through to market, addressing both scientific and commercial challenges. Lead with Vision: Her proven leadership and project management skills will be instrumental in steering the DAO towards achieving its goals

Conclusion

Logan Bishop-Currey's nomination as Project Lead for the Vita-Fast DAO is a decision that leverages her expertise in drug discovery and commercial acumen from her MBA and industry biotech experience. Her leadership will be a catalyst in driving VITA-FAST forward, bridging the gap between groundbreaking scientific research and its translation into viable drug products.