BioMelbourne Network
Progressing BioIndustry
Secretariat
Information about the BioMelbourne Network's Chairman, CEO and its staff.
John Raff was previously CEO, Chairman and founder of Starpharma Holdings Ltd. Prior to Starpahrma, John was General Manager of the Biomolecular Research Institute from 1990 to 1997. John Raff received a Ph.D. from Melbourne University in 1982 for molecular biology studies on cell recognition systems, under the supervision of Professor Adrienne Clarke. He is the co-founder, director and major shareholder of a technology-based agricultural seed company with subsidiary operations in India. John Raff is also founder and investor in a number of start-up technology companies.
Prior to retiring from Starpharma John had been one of the longest serving biotech CEOs in Australia. He has been the driving force in taking Starpharma from a small start-up to a company with a developing clinical pipeline of pharmaceutical products, and valuable equity in two complementary businesses in US based DNT and Australian company Dimerix Bioscience. John provides guidance, feedback, ideas and strategic input relating to the operations of the Network.
Michelle Gallaher joined the BioMelbourne Network as Chief Executive Officer in late June 2008. With 18 years experience in the Victorian healthcare, research and biotech sectors, principally in investor relations, government affairs and communications, Michelle has an indepth understanding of the needs and pressures of the local biotechology industry.
For the past four years Michelle was the Director of Public Affairs at the Australian Stem Cell Centre fully engaged in the very public presentation and perceptions of this new and rapidly developing field of research. Michelle began her career as a health care provider, working within major teaching hospitals and private practice, moving into pharmaceutical marketing and eventually into a listed Biotech company.
Michelle has an undergraduate degree in allied health (Orthoptics) and postgraduate qualifications in business and public relations.
Michelle’s role is to continue the success of the BioMelbourne Network in designing and delivering activities that contribute to the growth in knowledge, experience and connectivity of the 170 members and the environment in which we all operate.
Anita Petris has recently joined the BioMelbourne Network in May 2009. Her background is in science (honours degree in Biochemistry) and marketing (postgraduate degree in commerce). Most recently Anita has spent several years in marketing at Telstra. Anita manages all the BioMelbourne Network programs and events, meets with potential sponsors and members to discuss the benefits and opportunities of sponsorship and membership of the BioMelbourne Network.
Nicole Pitcher is the longest serving staff member at the BioMelbourne Network, joining the network 6 years ago. Nicole's meticulous attention to detail in the coordination of events and membership activities make the BioMelbourne Network events the great success that they are today. Nicole is also a very keen hockey player.
