Eli Mordechai, Ph.D.
Chief Executive Officer
Eli Mordechai, Ph.D., is the Founder of the privately-held Genesis Biotechnology Group headquartered in Hamilton, New Jersey. As the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mordechai’s forward-thinking leadership inspires and empowers the ongoing discovery and development of innovative scientific products and services that fulfill important clinical needs to enhance the quality of life of patients in the United States and around the world. With visions of executing GBG’s mission of delivering inventive products and services while growing steadily and competitively in the biotechnology marketplace, Dr. Mordechai continues to expand GBG with vertically-integrated business initiatives in mind. Dr. Mordechai’s successes in tactically implementing vertical integration are evidenced by GBG’s collection of operational platforms in laboratory sciences, clinical research, drug discovery, and manufacturing and the comprehensive services, efficiencies, and creativity these collaborative processes yield.
Dr. Mordechai oversees GBG’s day-to-day operations and meets with his senior executive teams on a regular basis to ensure that all the companies of GBG maintain the highest standards of corporate excellence, accountability and transparency. Dr. Mordechai investigates and monitors trends and forecasts in the biotechnology and healthcare industries to manage risk and optimally navigate business development for each of GBG’s enterprises. His focus for GBG’s market expansion involves driving core organic growth, initiating new lines of business, and being an active participant in the merger and acquisition arena. Building executive management teams comprised of industry-leading experts to carry out GBG’s missions and promote its corporate culture of opportunity, honesty, and unsurpassed values and professional practices is another of Dr. Mordechai’s priorities as Chief Officer.
Dr. Mordechai received his Bachelors of Science degree in Biochemistry from Rider University in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, and upon graduation he was distinguished with ‘The Biochemistry Departmental Award’. He went on to earn his Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the Department of Biochemistry at Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia. At Temple University, Dr. Mordechai was the recipient of ‘The Florence Gloria Freeman Cancer Research Award’. He completed his post-doctoral studies at the Department of Neurobiology at the Barrow Neurological Institute St. Joseph’s Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona. Following the completion of his post-doctoral studies, he served as the Director of Research and Development at the Immunosciences Laboratory in Beverly Hills, California.
Dr. Mordechai scientific research is documented in over 100 peer-reviewed publications and abstracts. He has presented at a vast array scientific meetings and industry conferences, and he has authored over 25 patents. Dr. Mordechai is an Associate Professor at Rowan University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, and he also serves as an active member on many academic and scientific boards such as, Rider University Science Advisory Board, Board of Trustee of Rider University, Chemistry/Biochemistry Advisory Board at Burlington County Community College, Dean Development Council at Rowan University (formally UMDNJ), the Scientific Advisory Board of the Hepatitis B Foundation, and the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center.
As an accomplished scientist, business executive, and leading community figure, Eli Mordechai, Ph.D.’s body of work and stellar reputation epitomize American ingenuity and have earned him several academic, industrial and community awards, including the Ernst & Young ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ award. He was voted ‘Most 50 Interesting People in Mercer County’, and he received the esteemed Dean Council Award from the University of Medicine and Dentistry in New Jersey. Dr. Mordechai holds a certificate as a Medical Director from the Wadsworth Center New York State Department of Health and from the American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB). His current professional memberships include the American Society of Microbiology, Association for Molecular Pathology, International Society for Infectious Diseases, and the American Association for the Advancement of Medicine.
Martin E. Adelson, Ph.D.
Chief Operating Officer
Corporate Department and Research Department
Dr. Adelson joined the GBG team in 2002. As the Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Adelson leads clinical, development, and discovery research operations in Medical Diagnostic Laboratories, L.L.C. (MDL), Venenum Biodesign, LLC, and Invivotek LLC, with his main focus concentrating on scaling and expanding the existing business infrastructure through both organic growth and corporate acquisition. In addition, Dr. Adelson implements various innovations and re-engineering initiatives, as well as leverages customized technology solutions, to re-calibrate and enhance MDL's work flow while reducing overall business costs.
Prior to his appointment to Chief Operating Officer in 2013, Dr. Adelson held positions within MDL as Director of Research & Development before becoming Vice President of MDL in 2007.
Dr. Adelson received his BS in Biology from The College of New Jersey (formerly Trenton State College) in Ewing, NJ. He earned his Ph.D. in Molecular Biology & Genetics from the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics/Fels Institute for Molecular Biology and Cancer at Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. He completed his postdoctoral studies in the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Dr. Adleson was the proud recipient of a competitive Postdoctoral Research Fellowship from the National Institutes of Health, National Lung, and Blood Institute.
Dr. Adelson has presented more than 15 presentations for scientific meetings and conferences, clients, and special events. He is the author of 60 publications and 82 abstracts including:
- Adelson ME, Feola M, Trama JP, Tilton RC, and Mordechai E. (2005). Simultaneous detection of herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 by real-time PCR and Pyrosequencing. Journal of Clinical Virology, 33(1): 15-34. ’s
Dr. Adelson is an Associate Professor at Rowan University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences as well as a present Member of the Thomas Jefferson University Biotechnology Program Advisory Committee. He has served on the editorial boards of Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease and Journal of Clinical Microbiology. He has also served as a guest reviewer for the Journal of Clinical Microbiology, Infection & Immunity, Journal of Applied and Experimental Microbiology, Clinical and Diagnostic Microbiology, Journal of Dermatological Science, Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease, and Clinical and Vaccine Immunology. He serves as a Scientific Advisory Board member of JBS Science, Inc. at the PA Biotechnology Center and is a founding member of the New Jersey and Pennsylvania BioTech and Life Sciences Leadership Council. Dr. Adelson also holds a certificate as a Medical Director from the Wadsworth Center New York State Department of Health. His current professional memberships include the American Society of Microbiology, International Organization for Mycoplasmology, and Association for Molecular Pathology.
Ben Bandaru, Ph.D., MBA
Director of Corporate Development
Ben joined the GBG team in 2015. As the Director of Corporate Development, he provides leadership for strategy development initiatives by working closely with the CEO and strategic business units to drive all acquisitive growth initiatives for GBG and member companies from initiating to closing and on-boarding the transaction. Through collaboration with private equity and investment banks, Ben develops and structures deals, organizes and manages the buy-side, sell-side, intellectual property out-licensing, and joint venture projects to originate new businesses and develop existing relationships.
Prior to GBG, Ben was the Vice President of US Operations, Strategic Programs, and Business Development at iMEDGlobal Corporation. Additionally, Ben held a number of positions in Pfizer Inc., where he served in and led teams in Healthcare Informatics, Acquisition Collaboration and Divestitures, Global R&D, and Global Manufacturing before becoming the Product Development Lead in the Integrated Health Business Unit. During his time with Pfizer, he was the proud recipient of the Pfizer Innovation Award.
Ben received his MBA with a concentration in Strategy from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He earned his Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Wayne State University. Ben also holds a certificate as a Project Management Professional (PMP) from the Project Management Institute.
Ben’s list of publications includes:
- Bandaru, B., Jaishree, G., and and Bhagwat, A. S., 1996, Overproduction of DNA Cytosine Methyltransferases causes Methylation and C to T Mutations at Non-canonical sites, Journal of Biological Chemistry, Vol. 271, No. 13, Issue of March 29, pp. 7851–7859, 1996.
- Bandaru, B., Wyszynski, M., and Bhagwat, A. S., 1995, HpaII methyltransferase is mutagenic in Escherichia coli, Journal of Bacteriology, Vol. 177, No. 10, Issue of May 1995, p. 2950–2952,1995.
- Bandaru, B., 2006, Making team perform at their peak potential, SNEC-PMI, Nov 2006, p.05.
Ben’s hobbies include reading, watching movies, playing tennis and Sudoku.
Joseph Donovan
Chief Financial Officer
Accounting Department
Joe joined the GBG team in 2007 as the Accounting Manager. As the Chief Financial Officer since 2011, he is responsible for the accounting and finance functions of all GBG member companies. Joe manages the Accounting Department staff as well as day-to-day operations regarding all cash balances and the maintenance of our internal financial software. He is responsible for establishing and maintaining all banking relationships including financial reporting to banks and third party investors. He provides leadership and strategy development for financial and tax initiatives and is a vital member of the Merger and Acquisition team.
Prior to joining GBG, Joe brought with him twenty years of experience in the financial side of the manufacturing, retail, and distribution industries. Joe previously held positions as Controller of Omnitester Corp as well as Assistant Controller and Credit Manager for The Camera Shop, Inc.
Joe received his BA in Accounting from St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.
Joe’s hobbies include spending time with children and grandchildren and spending time at the beach and traveling.
Susan Kase
Chief Legal Officer
Legal Department
Susan joined the GBG team in 2011. As the Chief Legal Officer, Susan provides advice and leadership to the GBG family of companies to enhance its position in the fields of clinical diagnostics, drug discovery, product development, manufacturing, and distribution. In addition, Susan structures the transactions for mergers and acquisitions to assist GBG with its strategic growth initiatives in addition to managing a staff of attorneys and outside counsel to address challenges and litigation in the areas of corporate, regulatory, compliance, healthcare, intellectual property, contracts, and employment law.
Prior to her appointment to Chief Legal Officer in 2017, Susan held positions within GBG as Associate Regulatory Counsel 2011-2015, Associate General Counsel 2015-2016, and Deputy General Counsel 2016-2017.
Susan brought twenty five years of Legal experience to the GBG Team through her previous position State of New Jersey Officer of the Attorney General where she served as the Deputy Attorney General.
Susan received her BA & BS in Arts and Science from Pennsylvania State University in State College, PA. She earned her Juris Doctor from Widener University School of Law in Wilmington, DE.
Susan was proud recipient of many awards during her time in the Office of the Attorney General Awards including Excellence in Management 2009, Excellence in Investigations 2009, and Excellence in Trial Litigation 2008. Susan was also awarded with a 2014 Galaxy Award at GBG.
During her free time, Susan enjoys running, cycling, swimming, and movies. She is a Share the Music volunteer and Therapy Dog International volunteer.
Stephanie Berry, SHRM
Chief Human Resources Officer
Human Resources Department, Genesis Biotechnology Group
Stephanie joined the GBG team in 2016 as the Human Resources Manager. In 2017 she became the Director of Human Resources, a position she held until 2020 when she transitioned into her current role as Chief HR Officer. Stephanie provides leadership to the HR Team and oversees benefits and compensation, wellness programs, talent acquisition and employee retention, employee recognition programs, performance management, training and development, compliance, leave administration, employee relations and event planning. Stephanie has implemented various innovations to replace the current HRIS and revamp the benefits program to attract and retain top talent. She provides on-boarding and HR support for new acquisitions and leads Human Resources initiatives for GBG and all member companies.
Prior to GBG, Stephanie held positions in Human Resources at State of NJ - NJ Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency as an HR Generalist as well as Adelphi Group and BluePrint Research Group as HR Manager. Stephanie brought to the GBG team over 15 years of HR experience in the Pharmaceutical and Mortgage and Finance Industries.
Stephanie received her BS in Business Administration/Management from University of Reading. Stephanie holds a certificate as a Professional in Human Resource (PHR) from Villanova University in Villanova, PA, as well as a Society for Human Resource Management - Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR).
Stephanie is an active member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). She was the proud recipient of a Congressional Award presented by Congressman Chris Smith in recognition of her work in foster care.
Stephanie enjoys spending time with her husband and children and their many activities, traveling and giving back their community. Stephanie and her husband are advocates for children in foster care and have fostered over 25 children in their effort to adopt.
Valerie Tharnish, MT (ASCP)
Chief Operating Officer
Genesis Health
Valerie joined the GBG team in 2002. As the Vice President of Sales, of GBG she oversees all the directors of the specialized sales teams. She executes operational strategies to achieve business objectives. She monitors key performance indicators (KPI’s), such as, revenue growth and sales costs to achieve the company’s goals.
Valerie joined Medical Diagnostic Laboratories, L.L.C. (MDL) in 2002 as a Senior Sales Executive. In 2004 she was promoted to Regional Sales Manager, a position she held until becoming the National Director of Sales in 2011. In 2013, Valerie became Vice President of Sales for MDL, a position she held until 2018 when she transitioned into her current role as Vice President of Sales for GBG.
Before joining GBG, Valerie held a position in healthcare recruitment for four years with CJ Ventures as the Vice President of Sales. She was also a Sales Executive with Quest Diagnostics for nine years.
Valerie received her BS in Biology from New College in Sarasota, Fl and her certificate in Medical Technology from the Sarasota Technical Institute. She is a board certified Medical Technologist with the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP).
Stephanie S. Thompson, MT (ASCP)
Chief Marketing Officer
Marketing Department, Genesis Biotechnology Group
Stephanie joined the GBG team in 1999. As the Chief Marketing Officer, she provides leadership for the Marketing Department members including the graphic design team. She is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining the marketing efforts and supportive collateral for new and existing product lines and services for all GBG Member companies across all lines of business. Stephanie was directly involved in the implementation and supervision of modified processes in the sales and client daily and standing supply order process which streamlined work flow while reducing overall associated business costs.
Stephanie joined Medical Diagnostic Laboratories, L.L.C. (MDL) as a Laboratory Technician in 1999 and has since held various management positions of increasing responsibility. She developed the Quality Control Department for which she became the Quality Control Manager in 2000. As the division continued to grow in both scope and size, in 2004 Stephanie became the Director of Quality Assurance & Quality Control. In 2007, she transitioned into the role of Director of Marketing. Stephanie held a dual Directorship for ten years where she also served as the Director of Administration from 2005 – 2015. In 2021, Stephanie assumed her current role of Chief Marketing Officer.
Prior to GBG, Stephanie held a position as a Professional Blood Bank Technologist in the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Transfusion Services at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Stephanie received a BS in Medical Technology from the University of Delaware in Newark, De. She is a board certified Medical Technologist with the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP).
Stephanie’s hobbies include reading, cooking, and raising a family of three daughters with her husband in South Jersey.
Boris Bogomolnik
Director of Information Technology
Boris joined the GBG team in 2017. As the Director of IT he is responsible for the strategic planning, design, implementation, and overall alignment of all technology infrastructure with the organizational goals GBG and its member companies. Boris directs the effective delivery of networks, applications, and disaster recovery and processes. He oversees a team of technology engineers, architects, and developers while working closely with management, external vendors, and advisors. Boris identifies solutions to manage daily business activities more efficiently through technological improvements which increase productivity and reduce costs and downtime.
Prior to joining GBG, Boris brought with him twenty years of experience in the information technology industry. He previously held positions as technical lead senior solution advisor at Anthem BC/BS and team lead of application modernization at Gap Gemini America.
Boris received his BS in Information Technology at Kiev National Polytechnic University in Kiev, Ukraine.
Anthony Rohr
Chief Operating Officer
Genesis Drug Discovery and Development (GD3)
Anthony joined the GBG team in 2018. As Chief Operating Officer of GD3 he provides operational leadership, oversight, and coordination across all GD3 companies. This includes but is not limited to the efficiency and harmonization of processes, metrics, and justification of capital purchases; as well as the vetting and transition of additional companies into the GD3 group of companies.
Anthony began his career with PharmOptima as Business Development Manager. In 2020, he transitioned into the role of Chief Executive Officer of PharmOptima, a position he held until transitioning into his new role.
Anthony brought over 15 years of experience in the Preclinical Research industry to the GBG Team. He previously held a position with MPI Research, Inc., as Senior Director of Operations. Anthony was also the owner of Knowledgeable and Focused Consulting, where he provided science and business development consultation services to Biotech, CRO, and Pharma.
Anthony received his BS in Biomedical Sciences from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI.
In his spare time Anthony enjoys outdoor activities with his family (kayaking, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting), coaches his daughter’s travel softball team, and has a small hobby farm consisting of a garden, ducks, chickens, and goats.
Chiayu (Joyce) Huang, Ph.D.
Chief Scientific Officer, Chemistry
Genesis Drug Discovery and Development (GD3)
Dr. Huang joined the GBG team in 2010. As the Chief Scientific Officer of Chemistry, she oversees a team of medicinal chemists in the optimization of small molecule therapeutic compounds aimed at immuno-oncology targets, metabolic disorders, and infectious disease. She also guides the bioanalytical characterization of lead molecules through pharmacokinetic and Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism and Excretion (ADME) studies. In addition, Dr. Huang is responsible for the maintenance and growth of Venenum’s 5.7 million member compound collection for high-throughput screening.
Dr. Huang began her career with VENENUM Biodesign as a Chemistry Team Leader. In 2015 she was promoted to Assistant Director of Medicinal Chemistry a position she held until 2019 when she transitioned into the role of Director of Medicinal Chemistry.
Dr. Huang is a medicinal chemist with more than 20 years of experience in drug discovery which spans a variety of therapeutic areas including Metabolic Disease, Oncology, Respiratory, CNS, and Inflammatory Disease. She previously held positions with Pharmacopeia as a Research Scientist and Senior Group Leader as well as Ligand Pharmaceuticals as a Senior Research Investigator.
Dr. Huang received her BS in Chemistry from National Taiwan University in Taipei City, Taiwan. She earned a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry at University of Texas at Austin in Austin, TX. Dr. Huang completed her post-doctoral fellowship in Organic Chemistry at Duke University in Durham, NC.
James Beasley, Ph.D.
Chief Scientific Officer, Biochemistry & Bioanalytical
Genesis Drug Discovery and Development (GD3)
Dr. Beasley joined the GBG team in 2011. As Venenum’s Director of Biology, he oversees a team of scientists that support the research efforts in GBG’s pre-clinical drug discovery programs in therapeutic areas such as metabolic disorders, oncology, and infectious disease. Dr. Beasley’s Discovery Biology team specializes in the development, optimization, and execution of assays in the ultra-high-throughput screening (uHTS) of Venenum’s 5.7 million member compound library. The team also develops and performs assays, including several ADME-Tox assays, necessary to profile the small molecule therapeutic compounds produced by medicinal chemistry. Dr. Beasley serves as a member of the GBG Executive Council.
Dr. Beasley began his career with VENENUM Biodesign as the Discovery Biology Team Leader. In 2014 he was promoted to his current position as Director of Discovery Biology.
Dr. Beasley brought 12 years of experience in the Drug Discovery industry. He previously held positions with Ligand Pharmaceuticals as a Senior Research Investigator, Pharmacopeia as a Senior Principal Scientist, and DGI Biotechnology as a Senior Scientist.
Dr. Beasley received his BS in Chemistry from University of Texas at Austin in Austin, TX. He earned his PhD. in Chemistry at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in Chapel Hill, NC. Dr. Beasley completed his post-doctoral fellowship at Princeton University in Princeton, NJ.
Rukiye Nazan Eraslan, Ph.D.
Managing Director
Invivotek
Dr. Eraslan rejoined the GBG team in 2019. As the Managing Director of Invivotek, she leads a cross-functional team of scientists who conduct pre-clinical studies that enable interrogation of immunotoxicity, mechanisms of action, diagnostic hypotheses and ensure target engagement and pathway analysis activities to support target identification and immunotherapy in autoimmune diseases and oncology. She leads the scientific negotiation and due-diligence as a first layer to deliver decisional statements and explain data driven scientific rationale in to business. Rukiye also provides program/project management and operational support for drug development programs/projects (DDPP) to maintain accurate plans and documentation.
Dr. Eraslan began her career with GBG in 2013 at Invivotek as Team Leader, Immunology/Oncology, a position she held for over 3 years. In February 2019, she returned to the GBG family to become the Managing Director of Invivotek.
Dr. Eraslan brought over 20 years of experience in Immunology and Oncology within multi-disciplinary matrix teams comprised of colleagues from various groups including Discovery, Safety, Clinical and Regulatory to develop and deliver biomarker strategies and potential combination therapies for IO and autoimmune diseases assets. She previously held positions at Xenogen/Caliper Life Sciences as Team Leader Immunology & Inflammation, Taconic, Inc., as Team Leader/Principal Scientist Immunology & Inflammation, and (Bristol Mayer Squibb (BMS) as Principal Scientist as Immuno-Science and Oncology.
Dr. Eraslan received a M.S. in Molecular Biology from Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, IL. She earned a Ph.D. in Immunology at University of Illinois in Chicago, IL. Dr. Eraslan completed her post-doctoral fellowship in Immunology at Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago, Il.
Vladimir Khazak
Chief Scientific Officer, NexusPharma
Head of Oncology, Invivotek
Dr. Vladimir Khazak is an experienced biologist with more than 20 years of working in multiple biopharmaceutical companies. He is the co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of NexusPharma, heading biology research and development. He received an M.S. and Ph.D. from Chemical-Technical University, Moscow Institute for Genetics and Selection of Microorganisms, in Moscow, Russia. He completed his postdoctoral research at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, PA in the relationship between basic transcriptional apparatus and stress. Particular areas of expertise include genetics and molecular oncology with a particular emphasis on protein-protein interaction, gene regulation/expression and signal transduction.
Michael Van Zandt, Ph.D.
Vice President, Chemistry
Genesis Drug Discovery and Development (GD3)
Michael joined the GBG team in 2020. As President & Chief Executive Officer, he provides leadership, oversight, and coordination for the development and management of new drug discovery platforms within NEDP.
Michael is an accomplished synthetic organic and medicinal chemist with more than 20 years of experience in large and small pharmaceutical company environments. Before founding NEDP, he was a department head and project leader for The Institute for Pharmaceutical Discovery (IPD) and a medicinal chemist at Bayer's pharmaceutical division. Michael, an inventor on more than 30 issued patents and author of more than 20 publications in peer-reviewed journals, is a frequent reviewer for the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry and Bioorganic Medicinal Chemistry Letters.
Michael received his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry with a minor in Biochemistry while working with Distinguished Professor Carl R. Johnson at Wayne State University.
Sarah Landenwitsch, MSPH
Vice President
STATKING Clinical Services
As Vice President, Sarah works with SCS directors to determine company priorities and coordinate Corporate Core Services Divisions, including Information Technology, Human Resources, and other GD3 member companies. Sarah joined SCS in 2008 and since that time has held various positions of increasing responsibility, including Data Manager, Statistical Programmer, Section Head for Statistical Programming, and Director of Statistical Programming and Data Management. Her specific areas of expertise are biostatistics, SAS programming, CDISC standards and EDC software programming. She is an accomplished SAS programmer who has written SOPs governing auditable SAS programming processes. She received her MS in Public Health in Biostatistics at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina.
Vicki Gruhn
Associate Director of Regulated Bioanalytical
Integrated Analytical Solutions
Vicki joined the GBG team in 2020. As Associate Director of Regulated Bioanalytical, she provides leadership as project manager, Principal Investigator, and Study Director for all GLP-regulated laboratory projects. From basic technical procedures to advanced-level method development, Vicki insures that project deliverables are met and that clients are satisfied. She is unfailing in her commitment to provide our clients with cost-effective solutions and more often than not she becomes part of the client’s “project team”. Vicki also plays a major role in developing the systems to insure that IAS is compliant with current GMP and GLP requirements.
Before joining IAS in 2012, she co-founded Bay Bioanalytical Laboratories, where she served as owner and laboratory director for over 20 years. As Direc¬tor of Analytical Chemistry at IAS, Vicki acts as senior management, subject matter expert and trainer for all analytical laboratory operations.
Vicki received her BS in Biology from the UC Berkeley and SF State University in Berkeley and San Francisco, California.
Peter Pallai, Ph.D.
Managing Director
BioBlocks
Peter joined the GBG team in 2021. As Managing Director, he provides leadership, oversight, and coordination for the development and management of all drug discovery and development platforms. Peter has 23 years of experience in managing drug discovery programs. As head of Medicinal Chemistry Departments at Arqule and Ontogen, he led lead identification and optimization efforts of drug discovery teams utilizing the companies' parallel chemistry platforms. At Arqule, he served as a leader of the company's collaborative research program and had an industry-wide overview of hit-to-lead programs for a multitude of targets. Previously, at Procept Inc. Dr. Pallai developed an interdisciplinary drug discovery platform for protein structure-based lead discovery in collaboration with Harvard and MIT investigators. He served as Director of Chemistry and as a leader of the company's AIDS program, resulting in the development of a clinical candidate. Earlier in his career at Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc., he established and led the International Viral Protease Therapeutic Program. Prior to his industrial positions, Dr. Pallai held academic appointments at University of California, San Diego, and was a Fogarty Postdoctoral Fellow at the National Institutes of Health.
Dr. Pallai earned a BS in Chemistry as well as a Ph.D. in organic chemistry from the University of Szeged, Hungary, and has published numerous scientific papers and co-authored patents on compounds of therapeutic significance.
Joseph Nickels, Ph.D.
Director
Institute of Metabolic Disorders
Dr. Nickels joined the GBG team in 2007. As the Managing Director of the Institute of Metabolic Disorders, he oversees all research efforts currently focused on the discovery and development of novel therapeutics, with a special focus on for the treatment of lipid-dependent fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH).
Dr. Nickels began his career with MDL in the Research & Development Department, Division of Pharmacogenomics as a Team Leader. In 2009 he transitioned into the role of Scientific Director of VENENUM Biodesign and then Director of Target Biology in 2010. In 2012, Dr. Nickels became the Managing Director of the Institute of Metabolic Disorders.
Prior to joining GBG, Dr. Nickels was a professor of Molecular Biology at Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA for ten years. He has continued his role in Academia in recent years at UMDNJ-School of Osteopathic Medicine in the Department of Molecular Biology and Rowan University School of Medicine in the Department of Molecular Biology.
Dr. Nickels received his BS in Biochemistry from Rider University in Lawrenceville, NJ. He earned his Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ. Dr. Nickels completed his post-doctoral fellowship in Genetics at Princeton University in Princeton, NJ.
Gary Schieven, Ph.D.
Managing Director, Immunoveda & Director of Clinical Development, Genesis Biotechnology Group
Gary joined the GBG team in 2020. As Director of Clinical Development he leads clinical development efforts for GBG’s STING agonist or treatment of cancer. As managing Director of Immunoveda, provides leadership, oversight, and coordination for the development and management of drug discovery efforts for immuno-oncology and for the treatment of immune-related disorders.
Gary brought over 30 years of experience in the Immunology & Oncology Research industry to the GBG Team. He previously held a position with Bristol-Myers Squibb, as an award winning Senior Research Fellow.
Gary is the author of 112 publications, 12 patents and patent applications, and 41 presentations at scientific meetings. He led drug discovery programs leading to one marketed drug, Sprycel, plus 7 compounds into clinical development, including BMS-986256 currently in Phase II trials for lupus and BMS-986301 currently in Phase I trials in immuno-oncology.
Gary received his BS in Chemistry from St. John Fisher College in Rochester, NY. He earned a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from University of California at Berkeley in Berkeley, CA.
In his free time, Gary enjoys photography, hiking, travel and gardening.
Kelly Winchester
Chief Laboratory Strategy Officer
Genesis Biotechnology Group
Kelly joined the GBG team in 2004. As the Vice President of Laboratory Operations, Kelly is responsible for overseeing and managing Medical Diagnostic Laboratories' clinical laboratory Customer Service, Quality Assurance, Quality Control, and the Clinical Laboratory.
Kelly began her career with MDL as a Laboratory Technician in 2004. In 2005 she became a Clinical Validation Technician and transitioned into the role of Clinical Implementation/Validation Coordinator in 2007. In 2010 Kelly was promoted to Assistant Director of the QA & QC Department. She held this position until 2012, when she became Director of Quality Control. In 2017 Kelly was promoted to her current position of Vice President of Clinical Laboratory Operations.
Kelly received her BS in Biology from Shippensburg University in Shippensburg, PA.
Bridgette Ballard
President of Sales & Business Development
Genesis Clinical Diagnostics
Bridgette joined the GBG team in 2004. As the Vice President of Sales for Medical Diagnostic Laboratories, Bridgette leads a highly functioning national sales force and provides the tools, policies, and processes needed for their ongoing success. She develops and cultivates strategic partnerships, business development strategies, and alliances to drive continuous revenue growth and market share. For over 15 years, Bridgette has been a well-known and awarded sales producer in the laboratory industry and has held several leadership positions of increasing responsibility.
Bridgette was born and raised in Ponchatoula, Louisiana. She earned a state scholarship and was later relocated by the United States Air Force to New Jersey, where she found Medical Diagnostic Laboratories. After spending over a decade establishing her sales career across multiple states and regions, Bridgette now resides back in Ponchatoula with her husband and two daughters.
Kim Cabets
Director of Quality Assurance
Medical Diagnostic Laboratories, L.L.C.
Kim joined the GBG team in 1998. As the Director of Quality Assurance, Kim is responsible for maintaining federal and state licensing for the Clinical Laboratory as well as all regulatory compliance.
Kim joined MDL as a Laboratory Technician in 1998 and has since held various management positions. She was manager of the Clinical Laboratory until 2007 when she became Director of the Quality Assurance (QA) & Quality Control (QC) Department. She held this position until 2012 when she became Director of Quality Assurance, enabling her to focus on licensing and regulatory compliance issues.
Kim received her BS in Biology from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA.
William Hord
Director of Operations
Medical Diagnostic Laboratories, L.L.C.
Bill joined the GBG team in 2009. As the Director of Operations, he oversees the Logistics, FST, Shipping & Receiving, Warehouse, Fleet and Operations divisions and personnel. Bill is responsible for ensuring the efficient and timely transport of all specimens to the laboratory. He continuously works to develop new processes and procedures to increase efficiencies and drive down ever growing operational costs. He works to improve the business processes for the department through analysis and collaboration with other departments.
Bill joined MDL as the Operations Manager of Sherute, LLC., a position he held until 2011 when he became Assistant Director of Operations. In 2016, Bill transitioned into his current role as Director of Operations of MDL.
Bill brought more than twenty years of experience in Operations and Facilities Management to the GBG team. He proudly served his country in the US Navy as an Operations Specialist 2nd Class Petty Officer with a concentration in Combat Information Center Operations. He previously held positions at California Closet Company as a Foreman with a concentration in cabinetry and at Congoleum Corporation in Administrative Services as a Facilities Manager.
Bill received a Certificate of Completion from the US Navy Nuclear Power "A" School and has been working towards a BA in Business Management from Rider University College of Continuing Studies.
Jon C. Sniffen, MDxt (AAB)
Director of Laboratory Operations
SunPath-MDL
Jon joined the GBG team in 2002. As the Director of Laboratory Operations of SunPath-MDL, he is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of clinical laboratory operations including recruitment and employment needs of all laboratory personnel. Jon oversees the training and development of all laboratory technical personnel. He monitors compliance with all applicable regulations and provides day-to-day on-site supervision of specimen processing, test performance, and analysis.
Jon began his career with MDL as a Laboratory Technician in 2002 and has since held various positions of increasing responsibility including Assistant Coordinator, Second Shift Coordinator, Laboratory Technology Manager. In 2017 Jon was promoted to his current position of Director of Laboratory Operations for SunPath-MDL.
Jon received his BA in Molecular Biology from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ.
Deborah Giusto, MD
Pathologist and Managing Director
4path
Dr. Giusto is board-certified in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology by the American Board of Pathology. She completed Pharmacy Curriculum at Lewis University in Romeoville, Illinois. She received both a Doctor of Pharmacy and Doctor of Medicine with honors from the University of Illinois in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Giusto has published several abstracts and publications in peer-reviewed medical journals and contributed to a book chapter in a recently published authoritative textbook of liver pathology. Before earning her medical degree, Dr. Giusto was a pharmacist for ten years, working in an underserved area on the West Side of Chicago.
Nancy Elliott, MD FACS
Managing Director
Genesis Health
Dr. Elliott joined the GBG team in 2021. As Managing Director of Genesis Health, she provides operational leadership, oversight, and coordination across all Genesis Health companies. This includes but is not limited to the efficiency and harmonization of processes, metrics, and justification of capital purchases; as well as the vetting and transition of additional companies into the Genesis Health group of companies.
Prior to joining GBG, Dr. Elliott founded her Montclair medical practice in 1989 as one of the first Fellowship-trained breast surgeons in the United States. She completed training in breast disease at UMDNJ/Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. She received her medical degree from Mount Sinai Medical Center and completed a general surgery residency at St. Vincent’s Hospital, in New York City. Dr. Elliott graduated with honors from Barnard College, Columbia University.
As the founder and director of the Montclair Breast Center, Dr. Elliott is well known not only for medical expertise in the field of breast disease evaluation and treatment, but particularly for her sensitivity and commitment to her patients. She has received many distinguished honors, lectures extensively on breast cancer to professional and public groups, and has had numerous appearances on national TV as a breast cancer specialist. She is a member of many professional societies including the President’s Council of the National Breast Cancer Coalition and a member of the New York Metropolitan Breast Cancer Group.
Chris Conway
President
Worldwide Life Sciences
Chris joined the GBG team in 2009. As the President of both WWLS and Bioplast Manufacturing, he oversees the development of the Sales and Manufacturing Division of GBG. As part of this development, he continuously strives to create and realize efficiencies that can help both entities become more competitive in the global life science and injection molding marketplace.
Chris initially joined Medical Diagnostic Laboratories, L.L.C. (MDL) IT Department as an IT Network Administrator in 2003 and has since held various management positions of increasing responsibility. He moved into MDL’s Purchasing Department as the Purchasing Manager in 2004. In 2004 he cofounded WorldWide Life Sciences and held the position of Director of Operations until 2015 when he was appointed President of WWLS. Chris is also a cofounder of Bioplast Manufacturing where he held the position of Director of Operations from 2009 until 2015 when he was appointed President of Bioplast as well.
Chris received his BS in Information Technology from Richard Stockton University of New Jersey (formerly Stockton State College) in Galloway, NJ.
Caitlin Capestro
Director of Business Development
Bioplast Manufacturing, L.L.C.
Caitlin joined the GBG team in 2012. As the Director of Business Development, she is responsible for maximizing sales coverage enhancing growth and increasing market share as a leading manufacturer in the plastic labware industry. Caitlin promotes continuous development among Bioplast Manufacturing’s existing relationships and identifies, coordinates and pursues sales efforts with prospective customers.
Caitlin began her career with GBG as a Laboratory Consultant for WorldWide Medical Products Sales Division in 2012. In 2015 she became the Refrigeration Channel Manager and in 2016 MidAtlantic District Sales Leader. In 2017 Caitlin was promoted to Senior Business Development Executive, a position she held until transitioning into her current role with Bioplast Manufacturing.
Caitlin received her BS in Communication Studies from The College of New Jersey in Ewing, NJ.
In her spare time, Caitlin enjoys traveling, reading, spending time at the beach or on the water, and being with family & friends.
Brian Conway
Vice President of Lab Operations
Medical Diagnostic Laboratories, L.L.C.
Brian joined the GBG team in July 2000. As the Director of Operations for Bioplast, Brian is responsible for the overall operation and administration of an ISO 9001 certified injection molding manufacturing company, specializing in laboratory plastic ware and disposables. He is responsible for the recruitment and employment needs for the production and maintenance staff, selection of primary and auxiliary equipment, and leading the development and implementation of the QMS for ISO 9001. He is responsible for tooling, equipment and automation fabrication timelines, costs, and delivery schedules.
Brian initially joined MDL as a Laboratory Technician in 2000. In 2002 he became Third Shift Coordinator, a position he held until 2009 when he transitioned into his current role at Bioplast Manufacturing.
Brian received his BA in Biology from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ.
Elka Devash
President, Principal
Sherute, Genesis Investment Properties, LLC.
Elka joined the GBG team in 1999. As the President of Sherute, LLC., she is directly involved in Sherute’s day-to-day operations. She is responsible for the strategic planning, designing, and implementation of decor and furnishings of all GBG member companies and properties encompassing an estimated 400,000 square feet of administrative offices, conference rooms, clinical laboratories, hospitality and residential spaces. She provides leadership to all teams within Sherute including construction, facilities maintenance and environmental services, as well as landscape design and snow removal. Elka provides guidance to the GBG web development team regarding the design aspects of all GBG company websites.
Elka began her career with Medical Diagnostic Laboratories, L.L.C. (MDL) in the clinical Laboratory in 1999 orchestrating and supervising laboratory accessioning. In 2007 she founded Sherute, LLC., and has since served as President. Elka is also currently a principal of Genesis Investment Properties, LLC.
Elka is a graduate of Vizo Technical School in Tel Aviv, Israel. Her extensive international travels and subsequent exposure to various world cultures can be seen in the global influence of her designs.
Elka is the proud mother of three and grandmother to one beautiful little girl. Her hobbies include traveling, a love of plants, and baking for family and friends.
Peter Golden
Vice President & Director of Operations
Sherute
Pete joined the GBG team in 2006. As the Vice President & Director of Operations, he oversees the operations of construction and facility services for Sherute LLC.
Pete initially joined MDL as a Project Manager. In 2007 he transitioned to the position of Project Manager for Sherute, LLC. In 2009 he became Senior Project Manager, a position he held until 2014 when he assumed his current role as Vice President & Director of Operations.
Pete brought 14 years of experience in the construction industry to the GBG Team. He previously held positions at CHR Construction Inc., as Project Manager with a focus on residential construction, DRB Developers and Builders LLC., as Carpentry Foreman and Project Manager with a focus in Residential & Commercial Construction, and Advanced Construction Group LLC., as Carpentry Foreman and Project Manager with a focus of commercial construction.
Pete received his AA in General Studies from Clarks Summit University in South Abington Township, PA. He has also completed additional course work in Project Management Studies at Mercer County Community College in West Windsor Township, NJ.
Michael Gale
Vice President Real Estate Operations
Genesis Investment Properties
Michael joined the GBG team in 2004. As the Vice President, he directs national acquisitions, dispositions, and leasing programs in support of corporate real estate investment goals. He also oversees the development of commercial and mixed-use properties as well as the property management activities for the Corporate real estate portfolio.
Michael initially joined Medical Diagnostic Laboratories, L.L.C. (MDL) in 2004 as the Operations Manager, a position he held until becoming the Director of Operations one year later. In 2007, he transitioned into the role of Director of Operations for Sherute, LLC., a position he held until 2009 when he was appointed Vice President of Operations. In 2010, Michael assumed his current position with Genesis Investment Properties as the Vice President of Acquisitions & Business Development.
Before joining GBG, Michael held a position with Congoleum Corporation as Manager of Administrative Services.
Michael received his BS in Business Administration from Rider University in Lawrenceville, NJ.