The Team
Michael O’Rourke – Chief Executive Officer, Director
Michael O’Rourke, has been involved in “drug delivery” for over 30 years across Ophthalmology, Periodontal and Pulmonary markets including strategy development and global commercialization; previous companies include 3M Pharma, Pfizer, Alza, Chiron Vision, Bausch + Lomb and GrayBug. In 2009 Michael founded Scotia Vision Consultants advising ophthalmic companies on all aspects of commercialization and product development with a focus on anterior and posterior ocular drug delivery
Prior to establishing Scotia Vision Consultant in 2009, Michael was General Manager for the $200m Bausch + Lomb U.S. Pharmaceuticals division in Tampa FL with full P&L and operating responsibility, transforming the business to record levels of growth and managing 150 employees. Previously he pioneered new Bausch + Lomb global strategy divisions including Pharmaceutical, Drug Delivery and Surgical products in California and Rochester NY. Michael was CEO for the start up company GrayBug based in Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, Maryland) where his accomplishments included the closure of an A2 round, securing 4 SBIR grants totalling $750K, developing an infra structure for business development deals and advancing pre clinical research programs in retina and glaucoma.
His ocular drug delivery experience includes launching the world’s first intra ocular drug delivery technology in Europe, Vitrasert®, and the world’s second, Retisert®, in the USA. Michael was the first European Marketing Director for Chiron Vision Europe. Additional experience includes Alza International (drug delivery) establishing their European division and launching the world’s first sustained release technology Actisite® treating periodontitis. At 3M Michael worked in both sales and marketing for new sustained release therapeutics and enhanced aerosol delivery technologies treating pulmonary disease.
Michael has managed 28 brands, led 13 product launches, structured/negotiated 12 strategic business deals and has been a team member in 18 device/drug approvals. Michael has both presented and published within ophthalmology at congresses and within respected journals. He is past Chairman of The Foundation Board for The Lions Eye Institute, guest speaker on strategic planning at the University of Tampa and was part time marketing lecturer at Trent University in Nottingham, UK.
He is a native of Scotland and has lived and worked in Europe, USA and Asia. In 2010 he became a member of the GlobalScot Business network; assisting Scottish based Life Science companies plan for USA market entry, and was appointed to the Hall of Fame in 2018. He is based in Tampa, FL.
Patrick H O’Ruane, Ph.D. – Chief Operating Officer
Patrick has dedicated over twenty years to the advancement of sustained release drug delivery systems, specializing in various medical disciplines such as Cardiovascular, Ophthalmology, Gastrointestinal, Ear Nose and Throat, Transdermal, and Surgical. His expertise lies in achieving controlled and prolonged release of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients from biodegradable polymeric platforms integrated into drug-device combination products.
Patrick held key positions at prominent pharmaceutical companies, serving as CTO at Allay Therapeutics and Chrono Therapeutics, and as VP of R&D at CV Ingenuity, later acquired by Covidien. He is dedicated to improving patient care through novel sustained drug delivery systems, leveraging his multidisciplinary expertise to advance the field and enhance treatment options, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Patrick, a highly skilled physical-organic photochemist, has made significant contributions to academic and patent literature through extensive publications. With undergraduate degrees from The Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology and Trinity College Dublin, he pursued a Ph.D. from University College Dublin. His expertise led him to research Reactive Intermediates and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) using Laser Flash Photolysis during a fellowship at The University of Toronto. At The Johns Hopkins University, he employed Time-resolved Infrared spectroscopy to investigate organic chemistry reactions and developed a controlled release caged system for nitric oxide delivery. His groundbreaking research at The Ohio State University resulted in the commercialization of a product for pathogen inactivation in human blood products. Patrick’s work bridges scientific research and practical applications, demonstrating his dedication and talent in advancing knowledge and addressing real-world challenges.
Overall, Patrick’s extensive training and research experience in physical-organic photochemistry have positioned him as a leading expert in the field. His contributions to academia, patent literature, and practical applications highlight his exceptional dedication and talent in advancing scientific knowledge and addressing real-world challenges.
Jenna Hewitt – Director of Technology Transfer and Grant Projects
Jenna has 16 years of experience within the Biotech and Pharma industry, within this period she has made significant contributions in various scientific and leadership roles.
She started her career as a scientist, where she honed her expertise working diligently at industry leading organisations such as MedImmune/AstraZeneca, Norbrook, and AFBI, actively delivering drug development across multiple therapeutic areas. Her scientific background has equipped her with an in depth understanding of the intricacies of research and development, a valuable asset in her subsequent leadership roles. Jenna transitioned into program management and where she led delivery of complex biotech projects, ranging from discovery to commercial launch at Norbrook, Almac, Oxgene and Green Biologics.
Before assuming her current position, Jenna held the role of R&D Director at Fusion Antibodies, where she led and expanded the R&D Department. Under her guidance, the department delivered key R&D services and set a robust 3-5 year strategy.
Jim McIlroy, Ph.D. – Head of Quality & Site Management (Belfast)
Jim has more than 25 years experience in the Pharmaceutical Industry, working for Companies such as Galen, Warner Chilcott, Allergan and Teva. He holds a PhD in Biochemistry, an MBA, and a Bachelors Degree in Biochemistry.
Jim held key positions at prominent pharmaceutical companies, serving in the areas of Pharmaceutical Development, Operations and Quality. He led the Pharmaceutical Development (CMC) Quality Team within Allergan, and was the Site Leader for 2 operational and R&D Sites within Teva. He is the author of a number of Scientific publications and approved US and European Patents.
Kristi Lanier, CPA – Chief Financial Consultant
Kristi Lanier has more than 30 years of experience in both public and private accounting, with over 25 years concentrated in the Life Sciences industry. She has extensive experience in SOX compliance, SEC reporting, Mergers & Acquisitions, Business Unit Reporting, Budgeting & Forecasting and streamlining day to day financial operations. She served as Senior Vice President of Finance and Operations at WuXi NextCODE where she was responsible for both domestic and international finance departments. She played a key role in the acquisition of NextCODE by WuXi Apptec. Prior to WuxiNextCODE, she was Vice President of Finance for High Street Partners where she was responsible for multi-location finance departments both domestic and international, acted as primary contact for external auditors and liaised to the Audit Committee. Prior to High Street she spent over nine years with DGI Resolution, formerly deCODE genetics both in a consultancy role and as corporate controller and assistant secretary. Prior to DGI, Kristi served as Director, Financial Accounting and Reporting for over nine years with Genzyme Transgenics.
Ms. Lanier holds a Bachelor of science in Accounting from Pace University and is a licensed C.P.A in the state of New Jersey.
Scientific Team
David Waite, Ph.D. – Lead Scientist for Laboratory and Analytical Operations
David has a Ph.D. in Ocular Drug Delivery and an MPharm degree in Pharmacy from Queen’s University Belfast, UK. David has significant experience in the development and characterisation of formulations for sustained release of small molecules and proteins to the eye. As part of a 3-year Ph.D. project he has developed and characterised multiple injectable formulations that form implants in situ, prior to being photocrosslinked, to provide long-term, sustained protein delivery to the posterior segment of the eye. He also has significant expertise in formulation development and characterisation, development and validation of drug quantification methods, protein analytical methods, bioactivity determination and biocompatibility assays. He has authored a review paper on periocular drug delivery, with research papers in the pipeline (subject to patents) and presented posters at several conferences.
Gunjan Deshmukh, Ph.D. – Lead Scientist
Gunjan has a B.Sc. in Chemistry, M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry from North Maharashtra University, India and a Ph.D. degree in Chemistry and Catalysis from Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India. He has over 14 years of industrial and academic research. His research work is amalgamation of synthesis of organic molecule and metal oxide-based nanomaterials. He has expertise in liquid and vapor phase reactions, fabrication of reaction setups along with associated characterization techniques such as NMR, LC-MS, GC-MS, column chromatography, flash chromatography etc. His Ph.D. research and postdoctoral studies focused on development of sustainable processes involving design and development of catalysts and their applications in fine chemicals. He has also experience in the field of polymers and their use in different therapeutic areas, drug molecules and intermediates. He has published over 20 peer reviewed research articles, reviews, and book chapters.
Lucy Finlay (née Geddes), Ph.D. – R&D Manager
Lucy has a MEng degree in Chemical Engineering and completed a multidisciplinary Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Pharmacy and Chemical Engineering at Queen’s University Belfast. Her research focused on the evaluation of the in vitro inflammatory response of bioresorbable polymers at the late stages of degradation. She has significant experience in polymer analysis and characterisation techniques, including GPC, DSC, NMR and XRD; and experience in cell-based assays and analysis methods including cytotoxicity assays, ELISA, antibody microarrays and calcium mobilisation assays. She has published her work in the journals Polymer Testing and Acta Biomaterialia and presented at international conferences.
She has experience working in GMP environments, with recent roles in pharmaceutical product development as a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) associate with Terumo Blood and Cells Technologies and Queen’s University Belfast, and in quality compliance with Almac Clinical Services.
Sandip Gite, Ph.D. – R&D Manager
Sandip Gite is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in pharmaceutical research and development. He earned his Doctorate degree in Pharmaceutics from the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT) in Mumbai, India. With over 12 years of experience in pharmaceutical R&D, Sandip has worked at renowned pharmaceutical companies such as Concept Pharma, Lupin Pharma, Ferring Pharma, Cipla Ltd, and Sichuan Credit Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd in India and China. He has a successful track record in developing innovative drugs and improving existing ones, with research expertise in oral proteins and peptide drug delivery, 505(b)(2), NDDS, QMS, and complex injectables. Sandip has published 18 research papers, review articles and book chapters in reputed journals and presented his work at national and international conferences. He is also a co-inventor of two granted patents in the USA and India.
Peter McKenna, MPSNI, Ph.D. – R&D Manager
Peter is a Research Scientist and Registered Pharmacist with over 10 years of experience working in the academic, industrial, and retail sectors of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science. He obtained his MPharm degree and Ph.D. from Queen’s University Belfast.
To date, his research has focussed on the development of advanced polymeric drug delivery systems, namely microarray patches and subcutaneous implants, for the controlled release of a wide range of molecules with varying molecular weight, solubility, and potency. He has considerable expertise in formulation development using solubility enhancement strategies and nanotechnology; pharmaceutical analysis using chromatography and spectrophotometry; and formulation characterization using x-ray diffraction, microscopy, and thermal analysis. He has published over 10 peer-reviewed research articles, reviews, and book chapters and has delivered numerous poster and oral presentations at internationally recognized conferences.
Peter also has a successful track record of collaborating with industrial partners, including Janssen Pharmaceuticals, LTS Lohmann Therapie-Systeme AG, Ashland Global Inc., and PharmaTher Holdings Ltd., to accelerate the rate of translation of novel advanced drug delivery platforms.
Emma Carroll, MPSNI, Ph.D. – Lead Scientist
Emma holds a Ph.D. and an MPharm degree from the School of Pharmacy at Queen’s University Belfast, where her research focused on innovative strategies to modulate epithelial sodium channel activity in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. As a registered pharmacist with a strong foundation in clinical and laboratory sciences, she brings a unique blend of technical expertise, strategic oversight, and a passion for improving patient outcomes.
Emma’s expertise spans molecular biology, nucleic acid delivery technologies, and translational research, supported by her proficiency in laboratory techniques such as tissue culture, RT-qPCR, confocal microscopy, and nanoparticle formulation. Her previous roles at pHion Therapeutics and ARC Regulatory, highlight her leadership in preclinical studies, protocol development, and collaborative project delivery. Her contributions include several peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations on topics including mRNA/peptide vaccine biodistribution and protease activity in muco-obstructive lung diseases.
Vaibhav Pandya, Ph.D. – Research Scientist
Vaibhav is a seasoned biochemistry scientist with 14 years of expertise in bioanalytical method development, focusing on biomedical challenges like diabetes and Alzheimer’s. He holds a Ph.D. from CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology, where he developed a novel mass spectrometry method for human carnosinases. His postdoctoral work at CSIR-NCL Pune honed his skills in proteomics and metabolomics. At Queen’s University Belfast, he developed a method to quantify Arginine-related metabolites in cerebrospinal fluid, advancing research on post-operative delirium. Recently, he led a protein purification team at Randox Laboratories, specializing in biologics purification for diagnostic applications.
Charles Haughey, Ph.D. – Laboratory Operations and Innovation Lead
Charles holds a B.Sc. in Biomedical Science and a Ph.D. in Oncology from Queens University Belfast, where his research focused on developing innovative models of prostate cancer and exploring radiation sensitivity. With over a decade of experience in molecular biology and immunology, gained through roles at Oxford University, QUB, pHion Therapeutics, and Fusion Antibodies, he has honed his skills in cancer research, antibody discovery, and therapeutic cancer vaccine development. Charles has contributed significantly to the development and implementation of research methodologies, models, and techniques, playing key roles in laboratory governance and maintenance. His expertise includes tissue culture, in vitro assays, library preparation, and RNA-Seq analysis, enabling him to identify novel treatment targets and validate them through cellular manipulation techniques. With a strong background in project management and laboratory operations, Charles has effectively translated research findings into practical applications for both industry and academia.
Prerna Fule – Junior Scientist
Prerna is a versatile pharmaceutical professional holding a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy and a master’s in industrial Pharmaceutics from Queen’s University Belfast. Her research expertise lies in “Characterization of Extracellular Matrices and Mucus in the lung using Total Internal Reflective Fluorescence Microscopy (TIRF) and Rheometer.” With a Chartered Management Institute Level 7 Certificate, Prerna possesses insights into effective management practices. She specializes in conducting in vitro release studies of implant-based formulations, focusing on long-acting formulations, and brings a robust background in ocular drug delivery, polymer synthesis, characterization, and sterile production to her work.
Hardik Shah – Junior Scientist
Hardik is a dedicated pharmaceutical professional driven by a passion for enhancing healthcare outcomes. With a master’s degree in industrial Pharmaceutics from Queen’s University Belfast, and valuable experience gained at Norbrook Laboratories, Hardik has honed his skills in analytical method development and quality control analysis. His proficiency spans various techniques, including HPLC, GC-MS, FTIR, UV, SOR, and Rheometer. His commitment to quality control and adherence to regulatory standards combined with his enthusiasm for innovation, makes him a valuable asset to any pharmaceutical endeavor. Now, as a Junior Scientist at Re-Vana Therapeutics, Hardik looks forward to contributing his expertise and learning from a dynamic team dedicated to advancing therapeutic solutions.
Aishwarya Khadanga – Laboratory Scientist (R&D)
Aishwarya holds a Bachelor degree in biotechnology and a master’s in Cancer medicine research from Queens University Belfast. She has 8 years research experience in both Academia and Industry with expertise in molecular biology, immunology, cancer research, protein expression, and bacterial cell culture. She has demonstrated skills in diverse technical areas including molecular biology, chromatography, and cell culture. Her prior roles as R&D and formulation scientist at pHion therapeutic and Randox have honed her abilities in high-throughput testing, cancer research, vaccine and drug development. Her achievements include leading antibody purification projects, BD collaborations ,supervising COVID-19 PODs testing, and research teams. Aishwarya’s proactive approach, combined with her technical skills and project management capabilities, makes her an asset in advancing healthcare research and development.
Roopam Baviskar – Junior Scientist
Roopam is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Analysis at Queen’s University Belfast. He brings diverse academic and research experience to his role as a Junior Scientist at Re-Vana Therapeutics during his placement year. He also holds a background in Biotechnology from St. Xavier’s College, Ahmedabad.
His research journey began at Queen’s University’s School of Pharmacy, where he developed electrospun biodegradable implants for sustained drug release. This experience sharpened his skills in polymer formulation, in vitro characterization, and analytical techniques such as HPLC, SEM, and UV spectroscopy. He has also contributed to multiple academic projects, including the analysis of pharmaceutical co-crystals, employing advanced tools like POM, FTIR, DSC, TGA, and PXRD. He also gained hands-on experience in molecular diagnostics and biochemical techniques through internships in diagnostic labs, thriving in environments that value precision and innovation.
Daphne Doucet – Business Administration Intern
Daphne currently serves as Business Administration Intern at Re-Vana Therapeutics, where she supports a range of operational, administrative, and business development initiatives. She is concurrently pursuing her Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Ulster University, Belfast.
Before joining Re-Vana, Daphne held progressive roles at Thryv Therapeutics, a biotechnology company based in Montreal, Canada, culminating in her position as Manager of Corporate Communications. In this capacity, she led all communications and marketing efforts, managed strategic partnerships with patient advocacy organizations, and represented the company at major international scientific conferences. Daphne also played a key role in Thryv’s rebranding initiative, oversaw website and social media growth, implemented HR and IT solutions in a start-up environment, and supported executive-level operations.
Daphne holds a Bachelor of Education in Physical Education and Kinesiology from McGill University.