- Led and mentored a team of 7 researchers (PhD and non-PhD) in drug discovery, development, andoptimization projects across systemic, central nervous system, and ocular therapeutic areas,consistently delivering high-quality results.- Designed, planned, and supervised preclinical studies, including both large and small animal models,to screen various immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive regimens (biologics, small molecules,peptide-based biologics) with a focus on safety and efficacy.- Directed cross-functional projects with R&D, clinical, data sciences, and CMC teams, focusing onimmune response mitigation strategies for AAV- and LNP-based gene therapies, ensuring alignmentwith company objectives and achievement of key performance milestones.- Collaborated effectively with industry and academic partners, including biomarker discoveryinitiatives and participation in the ARDAT consortium, enhancing the translational potential ofclinical trials.- Contributed to the design and data review of non-GLP and GLP-tox IND-enabling studies, draftedand reviewed sections of IND applications and responses to regulatory inquiries.- Led the design and execution of preclinical proof-of-concept studies for autoimmune diseases,focusing on strategies for tolerance induction to antigens.- Worked closely with clinical teams to conduct translational research, addressing medical queriesfrom clinical trials and performing Immunogenicity Risk Assessments (IRA) across varioustherapeutic areas.- Conducted comprehensive due diligence on new therapeutic targets and potential externalcollaborations, evaluating scientific merit and strategic alignment to enhance pipeline developmentand research capabilities.- Applied advanced immunological and bioanalytical methods to drive research excellence.- Managed and optimized the budget and expenses for the Preclinical Immunology team, ensuringefficient allocation of resources and cost-effective project execution.

- Built, managed, and developed a high-performing team of 4 researchers (PhD and non-PhD),fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.- Identified and addressed operational challenges by developing and implementing new MSD-basedassay protocols, improving detection of antibodies in serum, plasma, and CSF samples acrossvarious species.- Spearheaded the automation of key assays within the Research Immunology group, enhancingthroughput and reducing intra- and inter-run variability for ELISA, MSD, and cell-based assays.- Led preclinical in vivo studies conducted both by CROs and internally, ensuring timely delivery ofresults by developing creative solutions and executing contingency plans effectively.

- Designed and supervised IND-enabling studies using both small and large animal models,supporting the progression of therapeutic candidates toward clinical trials.- Established, developed, optimized, and transferred advanced laboratory assays, now routinelyexecuted by Contract Research Organizations, facilitating successful clinical decision-making.- Conducted in vivo and in vitro studies on AAV immunogenicity, employing a range of laboratorytechniques to advance understanding of immune responses.- Trained, mentored, and supervised Bachelor, Master of Science, and Erasmus program students,fostering their development and contributing to their successful research projects.

PhD in Medicine | University of Leiden, Leiden University Medical Center, The Netherlands | 2009-2014| Thesis: “Addressing immune tolerance issues in inflammatory bowel diseaseand adeno-associated virus-based gene transfer” Leiden University. ISBN: 978-90-9028477-4 (2014).

- Acquired extensive theoretical and practical expertise in preclinical and translational researchfocused on AAV-based gene therapy.- Conducted in vivo and in vitro preclinical proof-of-concept studies for drug discovery, specificallytargeting treatments for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases.- Developed proficiency in a wide range of molecular, immunology, and histology techniques,enhancing the capability to conduct comprehensive research and analysis.