Dr. E’Lissa Flores joined the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) in 2023 as a Director of Science & Regulatory Affairs. In this role, she advocates for science regulatory and policy initiatives that promote biomedical drug development advances and fosters innovations within the biotechnology sector. She currently leads several of BIO’s committees including the Rare Disease & Orphan Drug, Biosimilars, Regenerative Medicine/CGT, IT Data, and the Manufacturing committee. Previously, Dr. Flores was a Scientific Program Manager at the Health and Environmental Science Institute (HESI) overseeing multi-sector committees of Genetoxicology, Immuno-Safety, and Cardiac Safety to strategize solutions to overcome global health issues. Prior experience includes, advising philanthropic biomedical ventures in the think-tank industry including managing a $12 million gene therapy grant program, was formerly a NSF Science Outreach Coordinator, as well as served on an Executive Diversity and Inclusion Committee at a major medical center. Dr. Flores received her B.S. in Biology from Stony Brook University, post-baccalaureates in Microbiology & Immunology, as well as her doctoral degree in Translational Biomedical Science from University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry with an immunotoxicology focus. She was also a recipient of the NIH F31 Ruth L. Kirschstein Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award. E’Lissa is also a strong advocate for women and underrepresented minorities in the STEM fields engaging in many outreach and mentor programs.