Scientific Consulting Team
Angela Pollard, Ph.D.
Barbara Amoah, Ph.D.
Alyssa Becker, Ph.D.
Mayank Boob, Ph.D.
Zac Bowen, Ph.D.
Agnes Bucko, Ph.D.
Arsalan Daudi, Ph.D.
Rebecca DeStefanis, Ph.D.
Ariana Eily, Ph.D.
Harold Haun, Ph.D.
Chelcie Heaney, Ph.D.
Ranjay Jayadev, Ph.D.
Filip Jevtovic, Ph.D.
Aaron Keeler, Ph.D.
Katharine Korunes, Ph.D.
Kumar Krishnamoorthy, Ph.D.
Lu Lu, Ph.D.
Kelsey McLaughlin, Ph.D.
Sumaiya Nazli, Ph.D.
Dana Ruby, Ph.D.
Scott Salger, Ph.D.
Chris Showell, Ph.D.
Tesia Stephenson, Ph.D.
Svetlana Tafreshi, Ph.D.
Brandon Turner, Ph.D.
Dana Upton, M.B.A., Ph.D.
Connie Vance, Ph.D.
Connor Wander, Ph.D.
Xiaohu (Tiger) Xie, Ph.D.
Vice President of Scientific Consulting
Angela Pollard, Ph.D.
Dr. Angie Pollard is formally trained in microbiology, molecular biology, bacterial pathogenesis, and host-pathogen interactions. As a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, she was chosen to participate in the Burroughs Wellcome Fund/Sigma Xi Grantsmanship Workshop and was awarded a Ruth L. Kirschstein Institutional National Research Service Award. She then served as Director of Research at Agile Sciences, a biotechnology company developing novel approaches to address antibiotic resistance. At Agile Sciences, she secured private foundation and federal funds totaling approximately $8 million to support multiple research programs that she led as Principal Investigator. Dr. Pollard has served on review panels for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In her current position, Dr. Pollard loves learning about all the innovative technologies being developed and meeting the amazing teams that are responsible for the development of these technologies. When she is not searching for new funding opportunities, she “relaxes” by spending time with her two rambunctious boys.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Director of Research, Agile Sciences
- Group Leader/Microbiology, Agile Sciences
- Postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of Wisconsin at Madison
Education
- B.S. in Biological Sciences from Illinois State University
- Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from Illinois State University
Scientific Consultant
Barbara Amoah, Ph.D.
Dr. Barbara Amoah is a broadly trained scientist with over 15 years of experience in Entomology, Agriculture, Crop Protection, and Environmental Management. Her interdisciplinary research background in applied insect ecology and management includes the development of pest control options that are safer and more environmentally sustainable to ensure adequate food supply, environmental friendliness, and human safety. Dr. Amoah has extensive experience in scientific writing and communication with a strong publication record, and she has served as a peer Journal Reviewer for six scientific journals. At EGC, Dr. Amoah enjoys the opportunity to collaborate with other scientists to help clients obtain funding to advance their innovations. In her spare time, Dr. Amoah enjoys gardening, a variety of sports, and spending time with her family and friends.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Lecturer, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, NC
- Postdoctoral Fellow, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC
- Postdoctoral Fellow, South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, SC
Education
- B.S. in Agriculture from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
- M.S. in Natural Resources from the University of Greenwich, England
- Ph.D. in Entomology from Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
Scientific Consultant
Alyssa Becker, Ph.D.
Dr. Alyssa Becker has a background in biomedical engineering with specific expertise in drug delivery, ultrasound imaging, and cardiovascular interventions. Prior to joining EGC, Dr. Becker worked at a start-up where she led the research and development efforts for a drug delivery platform and helped to secure both public and private funding. She has deep experience in securing grant funding across a wide variety of funding agencies, including the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the American Heart Association (AHA), and the Virginia Catalyst Program. As a Scientific Consultant, Dr. Becker enjoys using her experience to help scientists obtain non-dilutive funding to advance their technologies. In her free time, she enjoys baking and backyard gardening.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Director of R&D, SoundPipe Therapeutics
Education
- B.S. in Biomedical Engineering from Bucknell University
- Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Virginia
Scientific Consultant
Mayank Boob, Ph.D.
Dr. Mayank Boob has a broad experience across molecular biology, biochemistry, physical chemistry, materials science and chemical engineering with a focus on experimental and computational biophysics. His graduate work explored the molecular mechanisms used by organisms living at the bottom of the ocean to keep their proteins stable at extreme temperature and pressure. Dr. Boob also has experience in working at a CRO as a subject matter expert and at a startup as a computational scientist designing peptide based biopesticides. He has experience writing grants for multiple government funding agencies including the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation (NSF). As a Scientific Consultant at EGC, Dr. Boob is excited to work with startups to enhance their scientific mission and help them get non-dilutive funding for their innovations. He loves to collaborate with scientists from diverse backgrounds and is a team player. In his spare time, he enjoys running, cooking, biking, listening to podcasts and reading.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Computational Scientist, Innatrix
- Scientist Biopharma, Cambrex
- Junior Research Fellow, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research
Education
- Integrated M.Sc. (B.S.+ M.S.) in Chemistry, Minor in Biomedical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, India
- Ph.D. in Biophysics and Quantitative Biology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)
Scientific Consultant
Zac Bowen, Ph.D.
Dr. Zac Bowen has broad scientific experience in neuroscience, physics, data science, software engineering, and bioinformatics. His graduate work focused on understanding how large populations of neurons in the auditory cortex of the brain can reliably encode sound. Dr. Bowen also has experience working as a Research Data Scientist developing software and data science solutions for researchers in academia, government, and industry. Throughout his career, he has written grants for many federal agencies, including NIH, ARPA-H, DoE, DoD, and foundations, including the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative. As a Scientific Consultant at EGC, Dr. Bowen is excited about working with researchers across multiple domains to help them secure funding to innovate and advance their fields. In his free time, he enjoys drumming, lifting weights, cooking, and listening to music.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Research Data Scientist, Fraunhofer USA Center Mid-Atlantic
Education
- B.S. in Physics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Ph.D. in Biophysics from the University of Maryland, College Park
Scientific Consultant
Agnes Bucko, Ph.D.
Dr. Agnes Bucko provides a broad range of expertise ranging from developmental psychology, exercise science, and public health. Before joining EGC, Dr. Bucko completed her Ph.D. at the University of South Carolina’s Arnold School of Public Health. Her research focused on device-based measures of physical activity in children, along with the ways environmental factors, including policies and the built environment, influence physical activity in children. Dr. Bucko held a postdoctoral fellowship in the College of Health and Human Services at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where she focused on translating the Children’s Physical Activity Guidelines using cadence-intensity thresholds. As a Scientific Consultant at EGC, Dr. Bucko enjoys using her interdisciplinary background to assist applicants with enhancing their applications and moving their innovative projects toward development. In her free time, Dr. Bucko enjoys hiking and skiing, going to the gym, and traveling.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Postdoctoral Research Associate, College of Health and Human Services, University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Education
- B.S. in Psychology from Loyola University Chicago
- M.S. in Psychology from Arizona State University
- Ph.D. in Exercise Science from the University of South Carolina
Scientific Consultant
Arsalan Daudi, Ph.D.
Dr. Arsalan Daudi provides strategic guidance for life science and agricultural technologies. As a trained molecular biologist with expertise in host-microbe interactions, plant immunity, biochemistry, and microbiology, Dr. Daudi has experience writing and winning research grants from multiple government funding agencies, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). He served as a member of the leadership team for the peer-reviewed journal, Bio-protocol, and has provided strategic consulting to numerous businesses in the life sciences. At EGC, Dr. Daudi loves working with trailblazers in their fields who are pushing the envelope to bring innovative ideas to the market. In his free time, Dr. Daudi enjoys biking the Durham greenways, hiking, gardening and relaxing with friends and family.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Client Manager, Coleman Research
- Executive Editor & Business Development Lead, Bio-protocol
- Postdoctoral Research Scientist, University of California at Davis
Education
- B.S. in Biotechnology from the University of Nottingham, England
- Ph.D. in Molecular Plant Pathology from the University of East Anglia, England
Scientific Consultant
Rebecca DeStefanis, Ph.D.
Dr. Rebecca DeStefanis has an extensive background in translational research, genetics, and cancer biology. Before joining EGC, Dr. DeStefanis earned her Ph.D. in Cancer Biology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she utilized her knowledge of 3D organoid models, mouse models, and small-molecule inhibitors to identify novel therapeutic strategies for colorectal cancer patients. In addition to her thesis work, she worked as a life sciences consultant at WiSolve Consulting where she provided research-based recommendations to businesses in the Madison, WI area. As a Scientific Consultant at EGC, Dr. DeStefanis enjoys collaborating with a wide range of experts to drive the development of innovative products and technologies. In her free time, she enjoys discovering new restaurants, hiking with her family, baking, and reading.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Consultant, WiSolve Consulting, University of Wisconsin at Madison
Education
- B.A. in Biotechnology and Molecular Biology from Assumption College
- Ph.D. in Cancer Biology from University of Wisconsin at Madison
Scientific Consultant
Ariana Eily, Ph.D.
Dr. Ariana Eily is a scientist and educator with expertise in cell & molecular biology focused on plant-microbial interactions, transcriptomics, microscopy, and science communication. She was awarded an NSF Graduate Research Fellowship to fund her development as a biologist at Duke University. Her graduate work was also supported by a long-term partnership with BGI Genomics. While she was a student, she fused her passions for outreach and science by launching a science-art collaborative exhibit called the Art of a Scientist, which was funded by Burroughs Welcome Fund to drive public engagement. Dr. Eily’s conducted postdoctoral studies with the Director of Science Communication at Duke’s Initiative for Science & Society where she worked for the North Carolina PFAS Testing Network, dedicated to solving the problem of PFAS contamination. In her role, she also worked with Duke’s Office of Innovation & Entrepreneurship, helping scientists secure funding for their ideas. Dr. Eily also served as an educator at the NC School of Science and Mathematics and Elon University. She is excited to continue combining her knowledge of biology & science communication in her role at EGC. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking with her family and dog, baking, and playing or watching just about any sport (especially volleyball).
Professional Positions
- Biology Professor, Elon University
- Instructor of Biology, North Carolina School of Science and Math
- Postdoctoral Associate, Initiative for Science & Society, Duke University
Education
- B.A. with Honors in Biology from Rollins College
- Ph.D. in Biology, with a focus in Cell and Molecular Biology, from Duke University
Scientific Consultant
Harold Haun, Ph.D.
Dr. Harold Haun has over a decade of experience in biomedical research, including expertise in neuroscience, pharmacology, and electrophysiology. Prior to joining EGC, Dr. Haun received two Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Awards (NRSAs) from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to support his graduate and postdoctoral studies. Dr. Haun garnered multiple awards for his research, gained experience with diverse funding mechanisms through agencies including the NIH, Department of Veteran’s Affairs, and Department of Defense, and has served as an invited speaker on grant writing panels alongside NIH Program Officers and staff. As a Scientific Consultant, Dr. Haun brings a passion for service to help all see their dreams come to fruition. He enjoys spending his free time outdoors with his family and friends, cooking, and enjoying live music.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Education
- B.S. in Psychology from the College of Charleston
- Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the Medical University of South Carolina
Scientific Consultant
Chelcie Heaney, Ph.D.
Dr. Chelcie Heaney has strong behavioral and molecular neuroscience expertise, including preclinical animal models and mechanisms affecting molecular translation. Her previous research included elucidating the role of inhibitory signaling in learning and memory processes, identifying the key molecular mechanisms associated with the efficacy of rapid antidepressants, utilizing bioinformatics to identify FDA-approved medicines predicted to treat major depression in autism, and examining how major depressive disorder and alcohol use disorders co-occur, with an emphasis on adolescent vulnerability. Dr. Heaney’s work has been supported by various funding sources, including a Graduate Student Scholarship from the American Psychological Foundation and Council of Graduate Departments of Psychology, a National Institutes of Health (NIH) T32 Training Grant from Wake Forest University School of Medicine’s Department of Neuroscience, and a Postdoctoral Fellowship from the Fragile X Research Foundation. At EGC, Dr. Heaney enjoys collaborating with scientists with diverse training backgrounds, and helping clients obtain funding to develop their groundbreaking technologies. In her free time, Dr. Heaney enjoys cooking and baking, solving cryptic crosswords, and exploring the culinary offerings of the cities around her.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Instructor, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine
- Postdoctoral Fellow, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine
- Postdoctoral Fellow, Center for Learning and Memory, University of Texas at Austin
Education
- B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Biology from Boston University
- M.A. in Experimental Psychology with special emphasis in Behavioral Neuroscience from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas
- Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology with special emphasis in Behavioral Neuroscience from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Scientific Consultant
Ranjay Jayadev, Ph.D.
Dr. Ranjay Jayadev has strong biotechnology and biomedical sciences expertise, spanning genetics, genome editing, and cancer biology. His previous research focused on the properties of basement membranes, specialized extracellular matrices surrounding tissues that act as barriers to the spread of cancer cells. Dr. Jayadev led a large-scale collaboration to define the constitution of human basement membranes and has co-authored more than ten peer-reviewed scientific publications. In addition, Dr. Jayadev has experience securing grant funding from federal agencies, such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and from foundations, such as the Wellcome Trust. As a Scientific Consultant at EGC, Dr. Jayadev is dedicated to collaborating with scientists to advance their technologies by helping them secure non-dilutive grant funding. In his free time, Dr. Jayadev enjoys yoga, live music, and raising chickens.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Research Scientist, Duke University
- Postdoctoral Research Associate, Duke University
Education
- B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology from National University of Singapore
- Ph.D. in Molecular Cancer Biology from Duke University
Scientific Consultant
Filip Jevtovic, Ph.D.
Dr. Filip Jevtovic has a robust foundation in the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease, with extensive experience in obesity research, metabolism, muscle and exercise physiology, and developmental biology. Dr. Jevtovic has a diverse background in scientific communications with experience writing and presenting complex research findings and translating scientific concepts to general audiences, and he received both Writing and Scholar awards from the American Kinesiology Association for his work. As a Scientific Consultant at EGC, Dr. Jevtovic utilizes his interdisciplinary background and writing skills to help clients clearly communicate their avant-garde projects while securing funding. In his free time, Dr. Jevtovic enjoys cooking, learning about nutrition, playing water polo, hiking, and riding his motorcycle.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Research Fellow, Joslin Diabetes Center and Harvard Medical School
- Co-Founder of Simply Put Scientific Consulting
- Writer, Trudnoca i Zdravlje [en. Pregnancy and Health]
- Instructor, Western Michigan and East Carolina University
Education
- B.S. in Exercise Science, Grand Valley State University
- M.S. in Exercise Physiology, Western Michigan University
- Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Bioenergetics, East Carolina University
Scientific Consultant
Aaron Keeler, Ph.D.
Dr. Aaron Keeler has strong chemical and biochemical expertise, spanning natural products chemistry, high-throughput screening, and drug development. His previous research focused on the exploration of natural product biosynthesis in parasites and identifying novel antimalarial compounds targeting essential molecular chaperones. Dr. Keeler has led large-scale collaborations and has experience securing funding from agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Burroughs Welcome Fund (BWF). As a Scientific Consultant at EGC, Dr. Keeler is dedicated to collaborating with scientists to advance their science and technologies by helping them secure non-dilutive grant funding. In his free time, Dr. Keeler enjoys golfing, attending sporting events, and reading.
Professional Positions:
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Postdoctoral Research Associate, Duke University
Education:
- B.S. in Chemistry from North Carolina State University
- Ph.D. in Chemistry from Duke University
Scientific Consultant
Katharine Korunes, Ph.D.
Dr. Katharine Korunes has strong biotechnology and biomedical sciences expertise, including genetics/genomics, computational biology, and bioinformatics. Before joining EGC, Dr. Korunes received the National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship award and National Institutes of Health (NIH) Ruth L. Kirschstein Postdoctoral Fellowship award to support her research in computational biology and human population genetics. She routinely served as a manuscript reviewer for multiple research journals. In addition, Dr. Korunes has served as an ad hoc grant reviewer and as a panelist for the NSF. As a Scientific Consultant at EGC, Dr. Korunes is passionate about working with experts across disciplines and leveraging her extensive experience in grant writing and reviewing to support entrepreneurs and scientists to advance their technologies using non-dilutive funding. In her spare time, Dr. Korunes enjoys gardening, cooking, running, paddle boarding, and spending time outdoors.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Postdoctoral Scholar and NIH NRSA Fellow, Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University
Education
- B.S. in Genetics from the University of Georgia
- Ph.D. in Genetics and Genomics from Duke University
Scientific Consultant
Kumar Krishnamoorthy, Ph.D.
Dr. Srikumar (Kumar) Krishnamoorthy has diverse expertise spanning bioengineering, computational biology, and medical devices. He has supported grant applications to a variety of federal and state funding agencies, including the National Science Foundation (NSF), Department of Defense (DoD), and Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT). Dr. Krishnamoorthy has years of working experience in engineering roles in the medical devices industry and has served as a consultant for biotechnology and medical device startup companies. Additionally, he has served as a reviewer for various bioengineering journals. In his role at EGC, Dr. Krishnamoorthy enjoys supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses towards the development of innovative new technologies using non-dilutive funding. In his free time, Dr. Krishnamoorthy enjoys working on projects with his 3D Printer and CNC machine, brewing mead, and spending time with his wife and son and their mini-menagerie at home.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Postdoctoral Research Associate, North Carolina State University
- Research Assistant, Texas Tech University
- Mechanical Engineer, Proven Process Medical Devices
- Product Development Engineer, Bynde Technologies
Education
- B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering from SASTRA University, India
- M.S. in Bioengineering from Texas Tech University
- Ph.D. in Industrial, Manufacturing & Systems Engineering from Texas Tech University
Scientific Consultant
Lu Lu, Ph.D.
Dr. Lu Lu has experience ranging from academic science to leading scientific efforts at a start-up company. As a chemist with broad expertise in polymer science and analytical chemistry, Dr. Lu has leveraged grant funding to achieve new advancements in her field. Based on the research Dr. Lu conducted during her postdoc, she and two other researchers co-founded a start-up to develop a smart polymeric sealant for pavement joints or cracks. The project was funded by National Science Foundation (NSF) SBIR Phase I and Phase II grants, and Dr. Lu served as the Principal Investigator for the funded project. Dr. Lu gained extensive experience while working at the start-up, including grant writing, project management, business management, and research & development experience of the smart sealant. At EGC, Dr. Lu enjoys feeling the enthusiasm of entrepreneurs and being able to assist them in securing the resources needed to develop their technologies. During her free time, Dr. Lu enjoys traveling with family and friends.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Co-Founder and Chief Chemist, Louisiana Multi-Functional-Materials Group LLC
- Postdoctoral Researcher, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Louisiana State University
Education
- B.S. in Polymer Science & Engineering from University of Science and Technology of China
- Ph.D. in Chemistry from Louisiana State University
Scientific Consultant
Kelsey McLaughlin, Ph.D.
Dr. Kelsey McLaughlin is a well-trained biomedical researcher and experienced grant writer. Her expertise includes physiology, molecular biology, and cancer biology. Before joining EGC, Dr. McLaughlin conducted her graduate and postdoctoral research at East Carolina University, Brody School of Medicine, where she studied metabolism in the context of multiple diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and neurological aging. Dr. McLaughlin has extensive experience in scientific communication and preparing grant applications for various agencies, including the Department of Defense (DoD) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). As a Scientific Consultant at EGC, Dr. McLaughlin enjoys providing strategies and assisting diverse scientists and entrepreneurs in obtaining non-dilutive funding to support their science and technology innovations. In her spare time, Dr. McLaughlin enjoys running, hiking, playing soccer, and spending time with her family and dogs.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Postdoctoral Scholar, East Carolina University
Education
- B.S. in Exercise Science from High Point University
- M.S. in Kinesiology from Texas A&M University
- Ph.D. in Physiology from East Carolina University
Scientific Consultant
Sumaiya Nazli, Ph.D.
Dr. Sumaiya Nazli provides expertise across the spectrum of biomedical research and clinical practice. Formally trained as a mass spectrometrist with extensive knowledge of omics technologies and precision medicine, Dr. Nazli has been involved in innovative methodology development in proteomics-based mass spectrometry, contributing to technological applications in in kidney, urology, and hematology. Dr. Nazli received the Ruth L. Kirschstein Postdoctoral Fellowship from the NIH National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Leveraging her scientific expertise and business acumen, she effectively aligns client goals to deliver impactful results. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys mentoring emerging scientists, exploring historic architecture, and spending quality time with her family.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest University
Education
- B.S. in Biology from Salem College
- Ph.D. in Molecular Medicine and Translational Science from Wake Forest University
- MBA in Healthcare Administration from University of North Carolina at Pembroke
Scientific Consultant
Dana Ruby, Ph.D.
Dr. Dana Ruby is formally trained in behavioral and developmental neuroscience, molecular genetics, and epigenetics. Dr. Ruby earned her doctoral degree in Comparative Biomedical Sciences with a concentration in neuroscience and biotechnology from North Carolina State University where she used larval zebrafish to model a rare neurodevelopmental disorder known as CHARGE Syndrome. As a postdoctoral researcher, she studied immune-related epigenetic regions in human in vitro and mouse models of Alzheimer’s Disease. At EGC, Dr. Ruby is driven by her passion for scientific communication and aiding clients with advancing their science. In her spare time, Dr. Ruby enjoys spending time with her dogs and family, running, reading, and crocheting.
Professional Positions:
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Postdoctoral Research Fellow, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC
Educations:
- B.S. in Neuroscience from University of Scranton, Scranton, PA
- Ph.D. in Comparative Biomedical Sciences from North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
Scientific Consultant
Scott Salger, Ph.D.
Dr. Scott Salger has vast experience in molecular biology, immunology, microbiology, and aquaculture. In addition, Dr. Salger was an Assistant Professor of Biology at Barton College where he taught numerous undergraduate courses in Biology and Scientific Writing. In his more than 18 years of scientific research experience he has contributed to and written grant proposals to the federal agencies including the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Science Foundation (NSF), and United States Agency for International Development (USAID), state agencies, and several foundational agencies including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Morris Animal Foundation. At EGC, Dr. Salger enjoys working with scientists and entrepreneurs to help them reach their goals of developing and producing innovations that have the opportunity to change the world. In his free time, Dr. Salger enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, biking, and running with his family.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Assistant Professor of Biology, Barton College
- Postdoctoral Research Scholar, Departments of Biological Sciences and Applied Ecology, North Carolina State University
Education
- B.S. in Marine Biology from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington
- M.S. in Fisheries, Animal, and Veterinary Science from the University of Rhode Island
- Ph.D. in Zoology from North Carolina State University
Scientific Consultant
Chris Showell, Ph.D.
Dr. Chris Showell is an experienced scientific writer whose expertise spans multiple scientific fields. He is formally trained as a molecular biologist with specialties in genetics and developmental biology, and during his academic career, Dr. Showell developed high-throughput, DNA-based screening approaches to identify novel mutations in genes involved in human congenital heart diseases. Dr. Showell has presented research at various national and international conferences — including the 11th International Xenopus Meeting in Kazusa, Japan— and was involved in the annotation of the Xenopus tropicalis genome. Dr. Showell subsequently worked at a leading research services company in the Triangle, providing prepublication support to thousands of researchers worldwide in a wide variety of research fields. In his current position at EGC, Dr. Showell enjoys the opportunity to work with clients who are developing a wide variety of technologies and therapeutics. In his spare time, he enjoys reading and running.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Managing Editor, Research Square
- Quality Control Editor, Research Square
- Contract Editor, American Journal Experts
- Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Education
- B.S. (Honors) in Genetics from the University of Sheffield, England
- Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Sheffield, England
Scientific Consultant
Tesia Stephenson, Ph.D.
Dr. Tesia Stephenson has over 15 years of experience in chemistry research and education. Her expertise includes organic synthetic chemistry, natural products, and cancer biology. Prior to joining EGC, Dr. Stephenson was Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Francis Marion University, where she taught undergraduate chemistry courses and trained students in laboratory techniques. Dr. Stephenson has also served as a peer reviewer for Synlett, an international journal reporting research results and current trends in chemical synthesis. Over the years, Dr. Stephenson’s work has been supported by various research awards provided by U.S. federal agencies, including the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). She has extensive experience in the preparation of grant applications to multiple agencies, including the NSF and NIH. As a Scientific Consultant at EGC, Dr. Stephenson is passionate about assisting scientists and entrepreneurs in securing the necessary resources to advance their science and technology. Dr. Stephenson enjoys reading, playing with her dog, and fellowshipping with family and friends, during her leisure.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, Francis Marion University
- Postdoctoral Fellow, Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research Institute
Education
- B.S. (magna cum laude) in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County
- Ph.D. in Chemistry from Duke University
Scientific Consultant
Svetlana Tafreshi, Ph.D.
Dr. Svetlana Tafreshi is a Chemical Engineer by training with expertise in polymer modification and characterization, fibrous materials, wastewater purification, and drug transport. She has extensive experience conducting federally funded research, working with industry R&D teams on collaborative projects, and in scientific writing. Dr. Tafreshi has published over 20 peer-reviewed scientific journal papers and presented numerous conference proceedings. She also served as a reviewer for several high-impact scientific journals in her field of research. She enjoys learning about new areas of science and likes to utilize her diverse background in helping clients bring innovative ideas to the market. During her spare time, Dr. Tafreshi enjoys reading, gardening, and spending time with her family.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Research Fellow, Virginia Commonwealth University
- Postdoctoral Fellow, North Carolina State University
Education
- M.S. in Chemical Engineering from Lappeenranta University of Technology, Finland
- Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Lappeenranta University of Technology, Finland
- M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Virginia Commonwealth University
Scientific Consultant
Brandon Turner, Ph.D.
Dr. Brandon Turner provides a broad range of scientific expertise ranging from neuronal physiology to animal behavior to molecular biology and genetics. Dr. Turner is an experienced Manuscript Editor and Science Writer, and his many awards include a National Institutes of Health (NIH) F31 Institutional Training Grant at Vanderbilt University and a postdoctoral F32 NRSA through the NIH BRAIN Initiative at Duke University. Dr. Turner has a strong passion for helping scientists design and complete novel and exciting projects. In his current position at EGC, Dr. Turner enjoys the unique opportunity to support entrepreneurs and small businesses in developing new technologies and innovations. In his free time, Dr. Turner enjoys cooking with his family, reading, biking, and spending time outdoors with his dogs.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Department of Neurology, Duke University
Education
- B.S. in Biochemistry from Muhlenberg College
- Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Vanderbilt University
Scientific Consultant
Dana Upton, M.B.A., Ph.D.
Dr. Dana Upton excels at aligning both scientific and business objectives to help clients successfully advance their technologies. Her scientific training focused on DNA damage, repair, and replication in the context of cancer biology, immunology, and virology. Dr. Upton has served as a biotechnology strategy and writing consultant for early-stage companies and is an ASQ-certified Six Sigma Black Belt. At EGC, Dr. Upton enjoys helping companies with their commercialization strategies to transition innovative solutions from the bench to the marketplace. In her free time, Dr. Upton enjoys baking, reading, and music.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Postdoctoral Researcher, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Postdoctoral Associate, Department of Immunology, Duke University
Education
- B.S. in Biology and A.B. in Chemistry from Duke University
- Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics and Genomics with Certificate in Toxicology from Wake Forest University
- M.B.A. in Healthcare and Marketing from Wake Forest University
Scientific Consultant
Connie Vance, Ph.D.
Dr. Connie Vance is a pharmacologist with expertise in biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, and neuroscience. Following her academic training, Dr. Vance worked at two start-up biotechnology companies where she gained extensive experience in both drug and diagnostic development, successfully established external collaborations, and was instrumental in securing SBIR grant funding from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). Dr. Vance is the co-author of “Adenosine Receptors and Inflammation in Adenosine Receptors in Health and Disease” in the Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology. Dr. Vance is also an experienced educator having served as course coordinator and lecturer in medicinal chemistry at the University of North Carolina School of Pharmacy. In her current role, Dr. Vance enjoys meeting and working with a wide variety of clients. She particularly enjoys hearing their stories, learning about their technology, and helping them advance their science. She also trains in To-Shin Do ninjitsu and teaches women’s self-defense classes.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Consultant, Endacea Inc.
- Senior Scientist, Endacea Inc.
- Adjunct Assistant Professor, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Scientist, DarPharma Inc.
- Postdoctoral Research Scientist, University of Michigan
Education
- B.S. in Biology from King College
- Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry and Natural Products from the School of Pharmacy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Scientific Consultant
Connor Wander, Ph.D.
Dr. Connor Wander brings a wealth of expertise in biotechnology and pharmaceutical sciences from both industry and academia, specializing in drug development, neurobiology, and systems biology approaches to age-related diseases. He has been the recipient of multiple NIH awards to support groundbreaking research and has received extensive formal training in preparing manuscripts and grant proposals. Dr. Wander is known for his ability to effectively communicate scientific concepts to diverse audiences during the proposal preparation process. Prior to joining EGC, he worked in early-stage biopharmaceutical companies, leading and designing scientific studies to support the development of innovative therapies. At EGC, Dr. Wander is eager to utilize his expertise to assist clients in securing non-dilutive funding for their research projects. In his leisure time, he enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, surfing, and paintball, as well as caring for his bearded dragons.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Scientist, Deciduous Therapeutics
- Postdoctoral Researcher, Alkahest
- Co-founder, Straight from a Scientist
Education
- B.S. in Biology and Biochemistry from Virginia Tech
- Ph.D. in Pharmacology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Scientific Consultant
Xiaohu (Tiger) Xie, Ph.D.
Dr. Xiaohu (Tiger) Xie has a scientific background in pharmacology with broad experience in neurobiology, behavioral neuroscience, psychopharmacology, and analytical chemistry. During his graduate work at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Dr. Xie studied cocaine-induced behavioral sensitization using neuropharmacological and analytical chemistry techniques. He continued his research in drug addiction as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he focused on investigating the neurobiological mechanisms of environmental stimuli-induced cocaine relapse, cocaine memory reconsolidation, and drug context-induced impulsive decision making. Dr. Xie received a National Institutes of Health (NIH) exploratory/developmental research grant award (R21), and became an Assistant Professor of Research in the Department of Chemistry at North Carolina State University in 2013. Dr. Xie’s genuine interest for science has helped him gain a broad knowledge of technology development in general, and encouraged him to make contributions to the scientific community as editorial board member and reviewer for multiple scientific journals. Dr Xie thrives working with strong teams of scientists in highly collaborative environments. In his free time, Dr. Xie volunteers in the pharmacy at Urban Ministries of Wake County.
Professional Positions
- Scientific Consultant, Eva Garland Consulting
- Assistant Professor of Research, Chemistry Department, North Carolina State University
- Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Education
- B.S. in Pharmacy from Nanjing University, China
- Ph.D. in Pharmacology from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center