Jan Sumerel Email & Phone Number

Chapel Hill, Nc, Us

Chapel Hill, Nc

At the RNA Discovery Center, I’ve had the privilege of managing a fast-growing, inclusive community of scientists focused on groundbreaking RNA biology research. In my role, I oversee everything from financial management to corporate partnerships and cross-functional initiatives.In just under a year, I helped grow the center’s membership by 20% while also securing corporate sponsorships that strengthen our community and mission. One of my proudest achievements was organizing our first annual conference, which brought together industry leaders in a unique setting with new vendors to UNC, creating a dynamic space for collaboration! I also led the preparation of strategic presentations and materials that continue to elevate our center's visibility and impact.

Cary, North Carolina, United States

After being promoted to lead executive-level operations at Xerox, I focused on streamlining P&L and supply chain management. One of the highlights of my role was driving $8M in cost savings by optimizing asset management, reducing inventory, and redesigning job functions for efficiency.I also led the development and implementation of MS Power BI and blockchain database systems, which transformed our inventory tracking by automating processes and boosting accuracy. Additionally, I restructured our financial reporting, automating executive-level reporting for manufacturing, and worked closely with suppliers to source next-gen micro-electronic technologies that aligned with our innovation goals.

Research Triangle Park

In 2020, I helped establish Xerox’s Digital eXperience (XDX) IT organization in Cary, where I led a global, multidisciplinary team of designers, hardware and software engineers, quality experts, and R&D scientists. Our mission was to create innovative solutions in 3D printing.I was responsible for overseeing the entire product roadmap, shaping R&D and engineering strategies, and managing budgets, talent acquisition, and retention. I also led collaborative research with external teams, including the Department of Defense and the Palo Alto Research Center (PARC), to push the boundaries of innovation.Additionally, I developed technical reports and investor presentations that highlighted key project milestones, helping to increase executive awareness and support for our initiatives.

Florham Park, New Jersey

As part of a global leadership team in additive manufacturing, I played a key role in launching a new business unit in North America. My focus was on leveraging SAP to seamlessly integrate manufacturing, R&D, and finance for smoother operations and more efficient processes.I led cross-functional teams to bring innovative 3D metal printing solutions to market, working across the supply chain to optimize everything from production to sales channels. It was an exciting opportunity to drive growth and streamline operations in a rapidly evolving industry.

As an executive leader at a top 3D printing company, I directed R&D efforts across hardware, software, and materials to ensure our innovations aligned with corporate goals and positioned us as a market leader in the additive manufacturing space.I also managed our intellectual property strategy, growing the company’s patent portfolio and strengthening our competitive edge. Building partnerships with academic institutions was another key focus, fostering creativity and driving both research and business development forward.I helped us earn "Best of CES" Award at the International Consumer Electronic Show (CES) 2015 for MakerBot's closed-source Smart Extruder. The CES Innovation Awards are part of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), which organizes the world's largest annual consumer electronics tradeshow, CES.

Brooklyn, Ny

Stratasys acquired MakerBot in 2013.

I led cutting-edge R&D initiatives in functional materials, pushing forward the commercialization of high-performance printing solutions for consumer electronics. One of my key contributions was pioneering technology that resulted in the first inkjet printer light guide for e-readers, a breakthrough for flagship products.I also focused on creating new revenue streams by expanding Rambus’ patent portfolio and providing strategic oversight on intellectual property, ensuring we stayed ahead of the curve in innovation and market success.

I led a global team dedicated to advancing the commercialization of biosensors and molecular diagnostic tools, which had a major impact on market growth and adoption. One of my key contributions was developing customer engagement strategies that drove the widespread use of functional materials printing across various industries.I also had the privilege of representing the company as a thought leader at international conferences, helping to raise our profile in biosensor and diagnostic innovations.

I spearheaded the development of innovative 3D glass structures for high-tech applications, focusing on precision manufacturing and process automation. This work not only pushed the boundaries of what's possible but also helped streamline production.I’m proud to have secured federal funding to accelerate R&D efforts, fueling the company’s growth in advanced materials and robotics. Additionally, I led the creation of cutting-edge printhead technology for transaction solutions, which boosted our production capabilities and strengthened our position in the market.

Ph.D., Biochemistry And Biophysics

Genencor Silicon Biotechnology Postdoctoral Fellowship, Materials Science University Of Uc Santa Barbara

Biochemistry, Biochemistry