GEMMABio Welcomes Dr. May Orfali as New Chief Medical Officer, Enhancing Clinical Leadership
GEMMA Biotherapeutics, known as GEMMABio, has made a significant leadership move with the appointment of Dr. May Orfali as its new Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Orfali brings nearly thirty years of invaluable experience in clinical development and medical affairs, which will undoubtedly contribute greatly to GEMMABio’s mission. The company specializes in developing advanced therapies for rare diseases and aims to facilitate global access to its innovative treatments. This strategic appointment comes at a time when GEMMABio is poised for expansion under the guidance of its founder Dr. Jim Wilson, a pioneer in gene therapy. Dr. Wilson expressed his excitement about welcoming Dr. Orfali, highlighting her multifaceted experience in pharmaceuticals and international health. He believes that her proven leadership skills in advancing clinical programs will be instrumental in driving the company’s growth.
Dr. Orfali’s career spans numerous therapeutic areas including oncology, infectious diseases, and rare diseases. Her previous roles have encompassed direct involvement in clinical development, operational leadership, biostatistics, medical affairs, and regulatory compliance. Before joining GEMMABio, she served as Chief Medical Officer at Harbinger Health, focusing on early detection of multiple cancers leveraging AI technology. Her track record at Sigilon Therapeutics, which focused on innovative treatments for acute and chronic diseases, further cements her reputation as a leader capable of steering complex medical programs.
GEMMABio aims to revolutionize the field of genetic medicines through its commitment to gene therapy research. Dr. Orfali shared her enthusiasm for the company’s mission, expressing her desire to work alongside a dynamic team dedicated to improving patients' lives worldwide. Her educational credentials include a medical degree from the University of Baghdad, an MBA in Pharmaceutical Science from Cambridge University, and a fellowship in Pediatric Oncology at renowned institutions like Massachusetts General Hospital and Boston Children’s Hospital. Additionally, she has been involved in clinical research at the Dana-Farber Cancer Research Institute, showcasing her comprehensive expertise in the oncology sector.
As GEMMABio prepares to advance its research and product development functions, Dr. Orfali’s experience will be crucial in steering the company toward its goals of bringing life-changing therapies from the laboratory to patients’ bedsides more efficiently and affordably.
The company’s leadership, comprised of experts with solid backgrounds in academia, is determined to push the boundaries of what is possible in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly regarding rare diseases and genetic disorders. The collective experience of the GEMMABio team positions it as a key player in the evolving landscape of gene therapy, where successful clinical operations and patient programs are essential for success.
In summary, Dr. May Orfali’s addition to GEMMABio's executive team signifies a robust commitment to enhancing clinical strategy and advancing the company's innovative therapeutic approaches. With her expertise at the helm, GEMMABio stands poised to make significant strides in the gene therapy field, ultimately aiming to transform the treatment landscape for patients battling rare and complex diseases.