Leadership
Drew Harrison
- Coordinator, People Connections & Lead Gen
Expertise: Neurology, Anxiety, Depression, Stroke, Seizures
A dynamic professional deeply immersed in the clinical research and biotech fields, serving as the Founder and CEO of SYNAPTIGEN Group. This consulting firm specializes in artificial intelligence-powered tools for clinical research, including pharmacokinetics reporting and advanced analytics platforms. Additionally, as the host of the Beyond the Data Podcast, there’s a focus on exploring patient journeys, groundbreaking research, and the human impact behind drug development data.
A passionate advocate for integrating patient and caregiver voices into clinical research processes, with a strong emphasis on decentralized trials and reducing patient burdens. Leadership combines innovative technology with human-centered strategies to accelerate the delivery of life-changing therapies.
Jacob Venditti
- Coordinator, Patient Voice & Advocate
Expertise: Rare Genetic Disease
Founder, Live Fearlessly Foundation
A passionate advocate for the cystic fibrosis (CF) community, Jacob Vendetti is dedicated to ensuring that patient voices shape the future of clinical research and drug development. As a participant in groundbreaking CF studies, he offers firsthand insight into the life-changing benefits and challenges of new therapies, helping to drive patient-centric solutions. Through his work with Live Fearlessly Foundation, he also supports individuals with CF in underserved regions by providing essential resources and advocating for equitable access to care.
Beyond advocacy, he is an avid surfer and competitor, using sports to push boundaries and inspire others in the CF community. Embracing the therapeutic benefits of the ocean, he raises awareness through surf contests and fundraising efforts. At SYNAPTIGEN, he plays a vital role in ensuring that patient perspectives guide research, clinical trials, and drug development, reinforcing the company’s mission to bridge patient advocacy with scientific innovation.
Kenna McEvoy
- Coordinator, Advocacy & Data Sciences
Expertise: Neuro-Developmental Disorders, Rare Disease
Dedicated to bridging patient advocacy and data-driven research, Kenna McEvoy plays a key role in advancing inclusive and impactful clinical solutions. As Coordinator of Advocacy & Data Sciences at SYNAPTIGEN, she ensures that patient voices remain at the center of biotech innovation and clinical development. With expertise in neuro-developmental disorders and rare diseases, she works to translate complex data into meaningful insights that drive patient-centric research strategies. Her passion lies in closing the gap between scientific advancements and real-world patient experiences, ensuring that therapies and trials are accessible, effective, and aligned with patient needs.
Alexis Smith
– Coordinator, Media & Social Events
Dedicated media and event coordinator with a passion for raising awareness and fostering connections within the rare genetic disease community. With expertise in event planning, social engagement, and patient advocacy, she plays a vital role in organizing impactful initiatives that bring together researchers, patients, and industry leaders. Her work ensures that key discussions on rare diseases, clinical advancements, and patient-centered solutions reach a broader audience through strategic media efforts.
At Synaptigen, Alexis leads social engagement and event coordination, ensuring that industry events, conferences, and awareness campaigns effectively highlight the importance of patient advocacy and research collaboration. Through her efforts, Synaptigen strengthens its presence in the life sciences space, driving meaningful conversations that support innovative solutions for rare disease communities.
Brendan Dowd
- Coordinator, Data Analyst & Evidence-Based Business Solutions
Expertise: Neurology, TBI, Seizures, Prosthetics & Devices
With a strong background in neurology, traumatic brain injury (TBI), seizures, and prosthetics & devices, Brendan Dowd applies data-driven strategies to optimize clinical research and business solutions. As Coordinator of Data Analysis & Evidence-Based Business Solutions at Synaptigen, he specializes in transforming complex datasets into actionable insights that support patient-centric innovation and scientific decision-making. His expertise helps bridge the gap between clinical research, technology, and real-world applications, ensuring that advancements in biotech and healthcare are both data-backed and patient-focused.
Advisory & Consulting Committee
Chris Crean
– Founder & CEO, Xyzagen
Founder and CEO of Xyzagen, a pharmacokinetic consultancy and boutique CRO specializing in early-stage drug development. With deep expertise in preclinical and clinical pharmacokinetics, toxicology, and regulatory strategy, he has guided over 100+ biotech and pharma companies in optimizing candidate selection, PK/PD modeling, and IND-enabling studies. Under his leadership, Xyzagen’s First-in-Rat® and First-in-Mouse® platforms have become valuable tools for early drug discovery and development.
As a key advisory member at SYNAPTIGEN, Chris brings strategic insight into nonclinical and clinical pharmacokinetics, regulatory pathways, and feasibility assessment. His expertise helps biotech innovators navigate the complexities of drug development while ensuring data-driven, patient-centered solutions.
Melissa Zablocki
– Founder & Principal Consultant, A to Z Consulting
Founder and Principal Consultant at A to Z Consulting, specializing in clinical research operations, regulatory compliance, and patient advocacy. With a strong background in clinical trial management and strategic development, she has helped biotech and pharmaceutical companies streamline study execution, enhance patient engagement, and navigate regulatory complexities.
As a member of SYNAPTIGEN’s Advisory & Consulting Committee, Melissa contributes her expertise in clinical strategy, trial feasibility, and patient-centric approaches. Her commitment to optimizing clinical research ensures that SYNAPTIGEN’s initiatives align with industry best practices while prioritizing patient needs.
Mary Barecki-Roach
– Founder & Principal Consultant, INDiGo DMPK Consulting
Founder and Principal Consultant of INDiGo DMPK Consulting, specializing in drug metabolism, pharmacokinetics (DMPK), and bioanalysis. With extensive experience in preclinical and clinical pharmacokinetics, she has supported biotech and pharmaceutical companies in optimizing drug development strategies, regulatory submissions, and IND-enabling studies. Her expertise ensures that compounds advance efficiently through the pipeline with a strong data-driven foundation.
As a key advisory member at SYNAPTIGEN, Mary provides critical insights into DMPK strategy, study design, and regulatory guidance. Her deep understanding of drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics strengthens Synaptigen’s ability to deliver high-quality, patient-focused solutions that drive innovation in clinical research and drug development.
Ryan Dackor
– Director, Clinical Operations, Grid Therapeutics
Director of Clinical Operations at Grid Therapeutics, where he oversees clinical program execution, operational strategy, and regulatory compliance. With extensive experience in clinical trial management, site coordination, and study logistics, Ryan plays a critical role in ensuring that trials run efficiently and meet industry standards.
As an advisory member at SYNAPTIGEN, Ryan provides valuable insights into clinical trial feasibility, site engagement, and operational excellence. His expertise supports Synaptigen’s mission to enhance patient recruitment strategies and improve trial efficiency across multiple therapeutic areas.
Dr. Sasi Taravath, M.D.
– Neurologist, PI
Board-certified neurologist and principal investigator (PI) with a deep expertise in neurological disorders, epilepsy research, and clinical trial execution. With years of experience in patient care and clinical study oversight, Dr. Taravath has been instrumental in advancing research in neurology, seizure disorders, and neurodevelopmental conditions.
As an advisory member at SYNAPTIGEN, Dr. Taravath provides medical and clinical expertise to support the design and execution of neurology-focused trials. His insights help ensure that SYNAPTIGEN clinical initiatives are scientifically sound, patient-focused, and aligned with regulatory expectations.
Tony Morin
– CEO, Hendy Street Productions
CEO of Hendy Street Productions, a creative agency specializing in multimedia storytelling, brand strategy, and content production. With extensive experience in media, marketing, and digital engagement, Tony has worked with life sciences organizations to create compelling narratives that drive brand awareness and industry impact.
At SYNAPTIGEN, Tony provides strategic guidance on marketing, branding, and media outreach. His expertise helps shape Synaptigen’s messaging, ensuring that its patient advocacy and clinical research initiatives effectively reach and resonate with key stakeholders.
Chris Matheus
– Chief Commercial Officer & Founder, GLSA
Chief Commercial Officer & Founder of GLSA, a firm dedicated to life sciences commercialization, business development, and strategic partnerships. With decades of experience in market access, sales strategy, and global business growth, he has helped biotech and pharma companies expand their commercial reach and optimize go-to-market strategies.
As a member of Synaptigen’s Advisory & Consulting Committee, Chris offers expertise in commercial strategy, business development, and industry networking. His insights help SYNAPTIGEN’s clients navigate the commercial landscape, ensuring successful market positioning and long-term growth.
Jacob Venditti
– Founder & President, Live Fearlessly Foundation
Founder and President of Live Fearlessly Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals with rare genetic diseases. As a patient advocate and thought leader in the rare disease community, Jacob works to bridge the gap between research, patient experiences, and policy initiatives to improve clinical trial accessibility and outcomes.
At SYNAPTIGEN, Jacob provides invaluable perspective on patient advocacy, engagement, and trial feasibility. His firsthand experience with rare disease challenges helps shape Synaptigen’s patient-centric approach, ensuring that research efforts align with real-world patient needs.