Our Advisors

Dr. Ruth Browne, a respected figure in epidemiology and public health, brings a strong background in research methodology and data analysis. Her expertise and commitment to improving population health are valuable assets to our advisory board, guiding our mission to advance medical research and improve healthcare outcomes. ​

Dr. Edward Craig, a distinguished orthopedic surgeon, has extensive experience leading surgery centers and public health initiatives. His background in clinical practice, research, and healthcare management significantly enhances our advisory board, guiding our efforts to democratize access to cutting-edge medical research and treatments.

Dr. José Esmurdoc, a healthcare leader, brings extensive experience in hospital administration, patient care, and clinical research. With a background in general medicine and understanding of underrepresented communities, his insights and commitment support our mission to advance healthcare innovation and improve patient outcomes.

Dr. Carlos García Lithgow, an expert interventional cardiologist, brings vast experience in cardiovascular procedures and research. He facilitated key clinical research initiatives, including The Northern Manhattan Family Study on stroke and stroke risks in the US and the Caribbean. His expertise supports our mission to make innovative treatments accessible to all.

Dr. Rafael A. Lantigua, an esteemed internal medicine physician, has focused on improving the health of aging minorities since joining Columbia in 1980. He co-founded CALME and the Columbia Center for the Health of Urban Minorities, reducing health disparities. His commitment to healthcare equity enriches our advisory board. ​

Dr. Edgar O. Mandeville brings medical expertise and leadership to our board. With years in clinical research, healthcare innovation, and addressing social determinants of health (SDoH), he advances best practices and patient outcomes. His insights and commitment guide our mission to democratize access to groundbreaking treatments. ​

Olivia Vélez, PhD, MS, MPH, RN, FAAa leader in health informatics and global digital health, brings over a decade of experience in digital health initiatives. Her expertise in data governance and public health strengthens our advisory board, guiding our mission to enhance medical research and healthcare outcomes.

Dr. Yavagal is a pioneer in interventional stroke neurology, trained at Harvard, Columbia, and UCLA. As founder of the Division of Interventional Neurology at the University of Miami and co-founder of SVIN, his expertise in stroke care and pioneering research among diverse populations significantly strengthens our advisory board.

Sanja Jeremic, PhD, is a molecular biologist with over 17 years of experience in biotechnology and innovation. As Deputy Director of the Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, she has led impactful projects in bioremediation and nanomaterials. Her strategic insights, combining scientific research with practical applications, make her a valuable advisor for startups focused on biotech and sustainable solutions.

Filip Ivancic, a co-founder with a successful exit in digital health, is now a start-up advisor and angel investor. With experience in healthcare Marketing, Sales, and Product Management, he is passionate about product-led companies that prioritize user needs. A former COO and Director of Product, Filip champions servant leadership and innovation through iteration, excelling in problem-solving across product management and operations.

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Goran Dimitrov is an entrepreneur with deep expertise in transportation logistics, particularly for high-net-worth clients. His experience is crucial for safely transporting bio samples required for clinical research studies, including life longevity projects. Goran’s leadership in secure, high-end transportation logistics makes him an invaluable advisor for startups in the clinical research and logistics sectors.

Monika Szmit combines an entrepreneurial mindset with extensive nursing experience, focusing on the Phoenix area and Arizona. Her expertise in managing clinical and mobile sites ensures smooth operations and efficient implementation of clinical protocols, making her a key asset for healthcare startups in the region.