Dr. Lauren Sara is a Boston University Rheumatology Research Training (BURRT) T32 Fellow studying knee osteoarthritis and hip pathology. Dr. Sara has received each of her degrees from Marquette University, including a BS in Biomedical Engineering, a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, and a PhD in Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences. Her predoctoral research focused on neuromuscular mechanisms of the calf muscles in persons with Achilles tendinopathy, and she additionally has experience researching biomechanical risk factors for running-related injuries and in overuse injuries in the military. Dr. Sara has been described by her lab team as someone who goes above and beyond as a researcher, collaborator, advisor, and mentor. An expert in her field, she is constantly willing to share knowledge and feedback while being receptive to others’ ideas. As a mom of two, she lends advice about the challenges of balancing work and family life. She inspires with her tireless efforts to see projects through and hold others to her high standards. Her mentorship has shaped the paths of multiple PhD students in her lab and beyond her capabilities in science she is adored for her kindness, poise, and laughter that fills a room.

Dr. Jo Viney, PhD is co-founder and CEO of Seismic Therapeutic, the machine learning immunology company developing medicines for autoimmune disease. A seasoned biotech executive and entrepreneurial scientist, she has co-founded 3 biotech startup companies in MA – the first of which, Pandion Therapeutics, was acquired by Merck in 2021 for $1.85B. Prior to Pandion she held research leadership positions and contributed to the drug discovery pipelines at Biogen, Amgen, and Immunex. She is an experienced director on both private and public company boards. Jo is a big advocate for workplace inclusiveness and regularly volunteers her time with a number of organizations focused on increasing diversity.