After 17 years of working at the intersection of healthcare, plant science, and regulatory innovation, I’ve taken the time to reflect on the journey that’s brought me here—and where I aim to make the biggest impact next. From toxicology labs to multi-state cultivation operations, my career has been shaped by science, strategy, and a drive to lead with purpose. Here is my biography.

I'm a biotech executive and scientist with a passion for advancing oncology therapeutics from discovery through clinical development. Over the course of my career, I’ve led R\&D strategy and operations in organizations ranging from early-stage startups to large global pharma, including Takeda, ImmunoGen, Novartis, and Biogen. I’ve had the privilege of building high-performing teams, guiding complex portfolios, and contributing to therapies that make a real difference for patients. Today, I enjoy advising innovative biotech companies and VCs as they shape the next generation of cancer treatments.

International collaboration in science serves as a vital engine for innovation, uniting researchers across borders to tackle complex global challenges. As highlighted by Shekhar Mishra’s experiences with U.S.-India initiatives, such partnerships enable nations to pool resources, share expertise, and drive technological progress in areas like clean energy, space exploration, and particle physics. From groundbreaking projects at Fermilab to the cooperative success of the International Space Station, global scientific efforts showcase the power of collective intelligence. While challenges such as regulatory hurdles and geopolitical tensions exist, the benefits—accelerated innovation, capacity building, and strengthened diplomatic ties—underscore the importance of continued international cooperation in science to shape a resilient and prosperous future.

After 25+ years working at the intersection of science and strategy in cell and gene therapy, I’m excited to share a comprehensive look into my professional journey—from hands-on scientific innovation to leadership across CDMOs, biotech, and academic institutions. My passion lies in building high-impact teams, developing therapies that matter, and bridging ideas to execution. Here is my biography.

Klodjan Stafa is a visionary biomedical research leader with a proven track record of advancing innovation at the intersection of dermatology, neuroscience, and molecular biology. With over 15 years of experience spanning academia and industry, he leads high-impact R&D initiatives that drive product development and business growth on a global scale. Known for his ability to cultivate top-performing teams and foster strategic partnerships, Klodjan combines scientific depth with business acumen to deliver breakthrough solutions. His work has contributed to multi-million dollar product launches, influential publications, and patented technologies, positioning him as a trusted voice in translational science and a catalyst for meaningful change in biomedical research.

Mentorship in scientific research and healthcare is not just a tool for individual growth but a catalyst for transformative industry-wide progress. As fields like healthcare and technology evolve at unprecedented rates, the need for structured mentorship that fosters leadership, innovation, and collaboration has never been more critical. Drawing from my experiences as an Undergraduate Research Co-Manager at UMKC and President of the Miami chapter of AAPPM, I have witnessed the profound impact of strategic mentorship. By guiding young professionals in developing technical expertise, ethical decision-making, and a growth-oriented mindset, mentorship bridges the gap between education and the real-world challenges of interdisciplinary research and healthcare practice. This article explores actionable strategies to cultivate future innovators and underscores mentorship's pivotal role in preparing the next generation to navigate and lead in a rapidly changing professional landscape.

Howard Matis is a globally recognized physicist and innovator with over five decades of groundbreaking contributions to scientific research, education, and technology. A former Staff Scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Howard has been instrumental in advancing high-energy physics, data science, and machine learning, earning accolades for his work on projects recognized by the Nobel Prize Committee. As President of the Contemporary Physics Education Project, he has transformed physics education through innovative outreach and e-commerce strategies, making science accessible worldwide. Howard's strategic leadership, coupled with his global perspective and commitment to fostering innovation, positions him as an invaluable advisor and board member for organizations seeking transformative growth.