Assist R&D and innovation pipeline through idea generation, evaluation, project design, implementation, resource management, grant procurement, and thought leadership. Responsible for coordination of cross-functional projects in ag-tech and animal health therapeutics, from development and operations, through funding initiatives, regulatory approval, and commercialisation. Work closely with executive leadership team, scientists, external partners, and international collaborators to successfully execute the company’s scientific program. Innitiated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) committee, to identify and implement initiatives to promote and foster a culture of inclusivity and respect.

Managed cross-functional teams with competing priorities that researched and developed new technologies, while consistently meeting budgets and timelines. Instituted inter-departmental group meetings to facilitate collaboration and empower research teams to be as innovative and effective as possible. Wrote and managed applications, data tracking and reporting for grant procurement and funding. Produced Standard Operating Procedures, Reports, and Validation Protocols compliant with ISO and governmental regulatory bodies to ensure staff safety, and quality results for clients. Developed innovative scientific tests-as-services (patents pending), strategically positioning the company for revenue generation.

Researcher in Dr. George Haughn’s laboratory, investigating cell wall development in the model plant system Arabidopsis thaliana. Performed the laboratory and planning work involved in this forward genetics project, and also helped manage the overall finances and organisation of Dr. Haughn’s research group.

Established the CAN-TILL reverse genetics facility as part of a multi-institute genomics enterprise funded by multimillion dollar grants from national and international foundations. Managed the facility’s objectives including hiring and supervising of staff, grant procurement, budget management, report writing and dissemination, as well as peer-reviewed research and review publications. Developed a library of over 3000 non-GM canola genotypes, screened for mutations in over 30 genes of interest, and created a seed library for future use. Successfully applied this technology to many other plants and model organisms, and set up a fee-for-service operation for the identification of unique canola genotypes.

Established the C. elegans Reverse Genetics Core Facility at UBC as part of an international consortium established to identify variants of every gene in the model organism, Caenorhabditis elegans. I also provided advice in writing papers and successful grant applications. I was responsible for the initial coordination of the project as well as hiring and supervising of laboratory staff, students and post-doctoral fellows.