Affiliation: Stanford University

Dr. Vincent M. Alford obtained his PhD in 2017 from the Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology at Stony Brook University. During his graduate studies, his dissertation research focused on the development of a standard approach for rational drug design against the functional activity of individual matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Results from this work led to the successful development of the first small molecule inhibitor specifically targeting the hemopexin domain of MMP-9. After obtaining his PhD, he then pursued a Postdoctoral Scholar position under Dr. Michael F. Clarke at Stanford University, within the Institute of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine. During this time, Vincent’s research projects slowly became broader and more focused on protein chemistry. More specifically, his research interests involved optimizing hit small molecules into lead drug candidates for use in treating chronic illnesses with unmet clinical needs, such as Triple Negative Breast Cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Vincent has also taken a great interest in developing novel 3D organoid based assays to evaluate drug efficacy since these cell culturing methods better mimic complex in vivo conditions and have shown to be more indicative of actual patient responses in clinical trials. After completing his Postdoctoral research at Stanford University in 2021, he sought his first job in industry, which led him to Thermo Fisher Scientific. During his time in industry, he has grown to understand the pre-commercial procurement (PCP) product development process, in addition to having the opportunity to work on various novel projects regarding predictive genomics, reproductive health, and population screening. Collectively, Vincent has a broad range of technical expertise in nucleic acid research, DNA sequencing, microarray platforms, fluorescence sorting/imaging, protein expression/purification, and drug development.