Top Biopharmaceutical Experts 2025

Dr. Akshaya Srikanth Bhagavathula is an Associate Professor of Epidemiology at North Dakota State University, internationally recognized for his pioneering work at the intersection of digital epidemiology, pharmacovigilance, and artificial intelligence. His research harnesses advanced statistical modeling and AI to track and predict health behaviors, medication safety, and disease patterns in real time—bridging traditional epidemiology with next-generation digital health analytics. Dr. Bhagavathula has published more than 250 peer-reviewed articles in leading journals, including Annals of Epidemiology, JAMA Network Open, and Lancet Digital Health. His work has been widely cited and featured in major media outlets such as The New York Times, where he discussed the real-world safety of GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro). Recognized among the Stanford–Elsevier Top 2% of Scientists (2019–2024) and elected as a Fellow of the American College of Epidemiology, Dr. Bhagavathula is known for translating complex data into actionable insights that shape public health policy and clinical practice. His ongoing projects include NIH- and NSF-aligned initiatives on AI-powered overdose forecasting, digital twins for public health, and real-world drug safety surveillance using explainable machine learning. With a decade of experience spanning more than two dozen countries and collaborations with organizations such as WHO, USAID, and UNICEF, Dr. Bhagavathula brings a global, data-driven, and human-centered approach to solving modern health crises.

Skilled, highly knowledgeable, and analytical professional with over fourteen years experience in the healthcare sector. Primary expertise in providing strategic insights and actionable information to life science companies. Proficient in molecular diagnostics, point of care diagnostics, genomics, immunoassays, oncology diagnostics, cardiology diagnostics, infectious disease diagnostics and personalized medicine. Strong ability in capturing customer insights, performing technical analysis, sizing niche segments, financial modeling, evaluating market dynamics, identify/evaluate new product potential, and presenting high impact, tactical recommendations. Specialties: Extensive knowledge in the genomics, in-vitro diagnostics space. Demonstrated success in managing teams and clients, assessing business models identifying market opportunities/risks and developing strategies to optimize market penetration, competitive advantage and profit.

I am a third-generation pharmacist with certifications in pharmacogenetics and antepartum doula care, specializing in maternal health and medication safety. After earning my PharmD from Creighton University and a BS in Hospitality from UNLV, I built a career spanning hospital and retail pharmacy, consulting, entrepreneurship, telemedicine, and medical affairs. Currently, I work as a medical science liaison while continuing to consult and practice as a hospital pharmacist. My expertise is grounded in both research and lived experience. After enduring three pregnancies complicated by Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), I founded HG Pharmacist® and Obstet-Rx to provide personalized medication guidance, integrate pharmacogenetics into maternal care, and advocate for women worldwide. My research includes genetic predictors of ondansetron effectiveness and recurrence risk for HG, and I have published extensively on maternal health. I also served on the HER Foundation board from 2019 to 2021 and frequently present at professional conferences. As host of the MaternalRx podcast on the Pharmacy Podcast Network, I highlight the pharmacist’s role in maternal outcomes, drawing from my background in specialty diagnostics such as preeclampsia biomarkers, iron deficiency anemia, and oncology supportive therapies. This blend of patient advocacy, clinical expertise, and medical affairs experience positions me as a trusted voice on maternal health, medication management, and the evolving role of pharmacists in healthcare. When I’m not speaking or consulting, I enjoy yoga, ice skating, and time outdoors with my dog. I welcome opportunities to collaborate with media to shed light on maternal health challenges, the importance of personalized medicine, and strategies to improve patient outcomes.

My expertise is in entrepreneurship, nutrition, fitness, and creating innovative food products. With a rags to riches story, I’ve hosted podcasts and had conversations with world class performers, professionals, writers, and researchers. I’m the creator of Energy Pods, the most innovative and versatile meal replacement food product, and CocoZen, a 12 oz sugar-free and nutritious spread, both of which are made in Napa, California.

Experienced Consultant with a demonstrated history of working in the pharmaceuticals industry. Skilled in Healthcare Management, Immunology, Team Leadership, Biologics, and Business Development. Strong consulting professional with a Certificate of Achievment focused in Immunology from Harvard Medical School.

I build composites in carbon fiber and carbon aramid kevlar primarily for automotive. I focus on nostalgic and enthusiast vehicles. I'm currently building a full wide body carbon fiber 90s BMW right now. I used to work for the non-profit world, I have worked for the corporate world; neither is for me. now. I work for myself and I work for my dreams. It's the hardest I've ever worked but it's also the most creative I've ever been. I've never been so rewarded financially self-investing in my dreams. IG Grimoire Aerowerks

I’m the founder of Kyoto Botanicals, a Colorado-based wellness brand built on transparency, botanical integrity, and founder-first formulation. After personally experiencing unwanted THC effects during early full-spectrum trials, I pivoted to broad-spectrum CBD to deliver results without compromise. I reject isolate-only products because I believe deeply in botanical synergy and the importance of effect-first simplicity. Drawing on nearly 20 years of CPG brand-marketing experience and a decade in the CBD industry, I stay hands-on in every part of the business — from product development and lab partnerships to Shopify optimization and email-marketing automation. My focus is helping small retailers curate trustworthy, THC-free wellness products their customers genuinely love. Through Kyoto Botanicals, I speak openly about clean ingredients, honest pricing, and empowering consumers to feel safe and confident with CBD.

Ganesh Ariyur is a global enterprise technology executive and a Top 100 Digital Adoption Leader for 2025. He is known for delivering more than $500M in measurable enterprise value through large-scale digital transformation, enterprise systems modernization, cloud strategy, artificial intelligence adoption, data governance, & enterprise architecture leadership. His work spans more than 90 countries across Fortune 500 organizations, private-equity owned companies, and highly regulated industries. Ganesh serves as the Global Head of Enterprise Technology Strategy and Transformation at Gainwell Technologies, a $3B healthcare technology organization. He directs modernization programs across SAP S/4HANA, Oracle Cloud ERP, PeopleSoft, cloud platforms on AWS and Azure, enterprise applications, reporting and analytics, generative AI, intelligent automation, enterprise architecture, IT governance, and cybersecurity, aligned with operating models. His programs have delivered multi-million-dollar cost savings. He has directed enterprise portfolios valued at more than $1B. He has unified 450-plus legacy systems, led technology programs supporting more than $30B in M&A value, and guided organizations through complex TSA exits and carve-outs. Ganesh brings deep expertise in artificial intelligence-enabled operating models, multi-ERP modernization including SAP S/4 HANA, Oracle Cloud, & Workday, cloud strategy and FinOps, enterprise architecture, data, infrastructure, cybersecurity improvement, data quality & analytics modernization, robotic process automation & intelligent automation, shared services/global business services, organizational design, and long-term value creation. His people-process-technology approach led to his being named a Global Top 100 Digital Adoption Leader. He is a Certified AI Business Transformation Practitioner & a Certified Technology Innovation Practitioner. He is also a member of the Forbes Technology Council. He was publicly recognized for global transformation leadership when he was featured on billboards across Germany during a major enterprise program at Bayer. Ganesh is known for partnering with boards, CEOs, CFOs, & private equity operating teams. He aligns technology strategy with growth objectives, cost discipline, compliance needs, & long-term enterprise value. Based in Atlanta, he is regarded as a CIO leader who turns complexity into clarity and who consistently converts technology investment into measurable business outcomes.

Darrion Phelps, Sr. leads with a rare blend of strategy and street-level insight. As Chief Marketing Officer of Roxford Digital, he’s built a model that bridges the gap between online visibility and local credibility. His approach aligns marketing with business development — two sides of the same growth engine. Through marketing, his team strengthens a brand’s online presence, optimizing search, content, and communication so patients can find, trust, and select a preferred provider. Through business development, he mobilizes Brand Growth Partners — professionals who serve as local ambassadors developing referral relationships, building community awareness, and turning trust into measurable growth. It’s a system designed to make healthcare brands seen online and chosen in person — blending modern marketing precision with relationship-driven connections.

Swalin Suraj Pradhan is an independent student researcher meaning he isn't affiliated with any instituition and whose work focuses on pharmacokinetics, drug modeling, and theoretical frameworks in pharmaceutical science. He is the author of the Drug Multiplication Theory (DMI Model), a novel pharmacokinetic approach integrating drug bioavailability, effect strength, and reaction transformation coefficients. His work aims to refine how drug behavior is mathematically understood and applied in clinical pharmacology. Swalin has also published two books of poetry, showcasing his ability to balance rigorous scientific inquiry with emotional and literary depth.

Exceptional physician executive with vast experience in medicine, biotechnology, and entrepreneurship. Proven track record in product development and marketing consulting for healthcare/scientific companies in launching winning products. Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, which consistently translates to superior results and trusted relationships with clients and associates. Specialities: Marketing Planning | Product Management | Brand Management | Market Research | Market/Customer Trends | New Product Development | Marketing Communications | Budget Management |

Started my career at Sagentia Innovation, I helped global consumer and industrial companies such as P&G to identify and evaluate market opportunities of new technologies and products. I joined Oxford University Innovation in 2016, focusing on commercialising Oxford University's research outcomes through licensing and creating spin-out ventures. I am passionate about cleantech innovation, currently leading a Climate Tech initiative at OUI, launched the Oxford Climate Tech and Sustainability Innovation Challenge 2021 this summer to engage Oxford researchers and local innovation eco-system to tackle climate crisis together. I am always eager and self-motivated to learn new knowledge and develop new skills, enjoying the challenges of stepping out of comfort zone while keeping the focus. I am passionate about innovation and entrepreneurship, and how to bring these together to create real impact to the society. I am a great team player, sociable and optimistic. I enjoy leading, coaching and mentoring, in particular when I can support and make others succeed in their endeavours

4th year med student passionate about solving real-world problems at the intersection of medicine, innovation, and public health. As the founder and managing director of nCase Tech, I lead efforts to increase access to harm reduction tools through thoughtful product design, research, and community partnerships. I’m also advancing the use of AI in medical education, working to reimagine how we train and support future physicians. My work spans clinical care, tech, and entrepreneurship—with a focus on building systems that make healthcare more responsive, equitable, and human.

Dorota has over a decade of experience in the pharmaceutical trade and media design, with a diverse skill set spanning Sales, Quality Management, and the coordination of complex Media Projects. During her pharmaceutical career, Dorota gained extensive expertise in gut health and autoimmune diseases through specialized training and day-to-day practical experience. In addition to her professional work, she actively advocates for endometriosis awareness. She contributed to the first feature film on this illness in the DACH region and manages a website offering resources for patients, updates on research, and information on studies, showcasing her dedication to addressing critical healthcare challenges. Dorota also holds a master’s degree in Audiovisual Media Design, bringing expertise in the coordination and administration of complex multimedia art projects. Her broad knowledge and proactive approach currently drive effective communication and organizational strategies at an Austrian Drug Discovery biotech company.

Experienced Consultant with a demonstrated history of working in the pharmaceuticals industry. Skilled in Healthcare Management, Immunology, Team Leadership, Biologics, and Business Development. Strong consulting professional with a Certificate of Achievment focused in Immunology from Harvard Medical School.

Richard Steinfeld is a seasoned life sciences staffing expert with over 17 years of experience supporting pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device companies. As the founder of Enfusionbio, Richard specializes in providing customized direct hire and contract staffing solutions across clinical operations, biometrics, medical affairs, and executive leadership. He has built a strong reputation for helping small to mid-sized companies build high-performing teams, often stepping in at critical moments to deliver on hard-to-fill roles. His long-term, cost-effective contract model offers clients a streamlined alternative to traditional staffing approaches. Before founding Enfusionbio, Richard spent over a decade in workers' compensation as an insurance adjuster and vocational rehab specialist, a background that sharpened his client advocacy and problem-solving skills. Richard works best with teams that value direct communication, efficiency, and relationship-driven results. His approach blends industry knowledge, strategic hiring insight, and a commitment to long-term success for both clients and candidates.

David Selakovic is the CEO and President of Vegalab SA, a Swiss biotech advancing natural solutions for global food systems. Under his leadership, Vegalab develops high-performance biologicals and specialty inputs that help growers boost yield and quality while shrinking chemical footprints and protecting pollinators. The company’s platforms—micronization, nano-encapsulation, and in-vivo cultivation of beneficial microorganisms—are engineered to match the efficacy and usability of synthetics, with sustainability built in from the start. Headquartered in Switzerland with a growing international footprint, Vegalab supports farmers, distributors, and innovators across regions with rapid product development and field-level support, and maintains a commitment to carbon-neutral operations and FSC-certified communications. Selakovic speaks frequently on scaling biologicals, translating lab breakthroughs to farm outcomes, and building resilient, zero-residue value chains.

I'm the CEO and founder of Extract Labs, a Boulder, Colorado-based full-service hemp extraction laboratory offering a proprietary line of boutique CBD-infused products. I started the company out of my garage in 2016. Prior to founding Extract Labs, I was the Senior Sales Engineer for Apeks Supercritical, based out of Denver Colorado. I performed technical sales, and managed all national and international training and service on Apeks extraction systems. I also performed cannabis related research and development, and taught classes specifically on advanced CO2 extraction techniques along with pre and post processing techniques. I received both a Bachelor and Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Louisville with a concentration in thermal sciences and renewable energy. Prior to my undergraduate and graduate studies, I served as an infantryman and Team Leader in the US Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2002 to 2006.

A PhD graduate of ETH Zurich in Food Microbiology, Dr. Mario Hupfeld became a member of the NEMIS Technologies co-founding team as CSO in 2018. He's lived and worked in Germany, UK, Italy and Switzerland, and developed 7 products from ideation to commercialization since NEMIS Technologies' inception.