Elizabeth Iorns
CEO and Co-founder
Professional Overview
Elizabeth Iorns is the CEO and Co-founder of Science Exchange, a leading online platform that connects researchers with a network of over 2,500 qualified service providers to access the tools and expertise needed to advance their work. With a strong background in cancer biology research and a proven track record as an entrepreneur and angel investor, Elizabeth brings a unique blend of scientific expertise and business acumen to her role.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As CEO and Co-founder of Science Exchange, Elizabeth is responsible for driving the company's strategic vision and overseeing its day-to-day operations. Under her leadership, Science Exchange has grown to become a trusted partner for researchers and institutions worldwide, facilitating the efficient and cost-effective outsourcing of scientific services. Elizabeth has been instrumental in securing significant funding for the company, including a $70 million Series C round in 2018, and has expanded the platform's capabilities to meet the evolving needs of the research community.
Career Progression
Prior to founding Science Exchange, Elizabeth served as a part-time partner at Y Combinator, where she provided strategic guidance and mentorship to early-stage startups. She has also held various roles in academia, including a postdoctoral position and an assistant professorship at the University of Miami, where she conducted cancer biology research. Additionally, Elizabeth has experience as an angel investor, supporting the growth of numerous innovative companies across different industries.
Academic Background
Elizabeth holds a Ph.D. in Cancer Biology from The Institute of Cancer Research, University of London, and a B.Sc. (Hons) in Biomedical Science from The University of Auckland. Her doctoral research focused on developing novel therapeutic approaches for breast cancer, and she has published her findings in several peer-reviewed scientific journals.
Areas of Expertise
- Cancer biology and drug discovery
- Scientific research and laboratory operations
- Entrepreneurship and startup management
- Angel investing and venture capital
- Strategic planning and business development
Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Elizabeth has made significant contributions to the scientific and entrepreneurial communities. As the co-founder of Science Exchange, she has revolutionized the way researchers access and collaborate with specialized service providers, enabling them to expedite their research projects and drive innovation. Elizabeth's expertise and leadership have been recognized through her appointment to the Board of Directors of the Drug, Chemical & Associated Technologies Association (DCAT) and her role as a part-time partner at Y Combinator.
Conclusion
Elizabeth Iorns is a visionary leader and accomplished scientist who has dedicated her career to advancing scientific research and fostering entrepreneurial success. As the CEO and Co-founder of Science Exchange, she continues to drive the company's growth and impact, empowering researchers worldwide to unlock new discoveries and breakthroughs.
