The Society of Laboratory Automation and Screening (SLAS) has appointed Madeline M. Farley, PhD, as its new Scientific Director, effective January 19, 2024. Farley brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles, including Chief Scientific Officer at the Biochemistry & Bioanalytical Division of Genesis Drug Discovery & Development (GD3) and Managing Director at PharmOptima, a subsidiary of GD3 based in Township, New Jersey.
In her previous position, Farley led research teams across three laboratory sites in the United States. She was instrumental in establishing the Ocular Center of Excellence and managing both regulated and exploratory bioanalytical research. “I’m excited to join SLAS and work with a community committed to advancing scientific discovery through collaboration, innovation, and rigor,” said Farley. She expressed eagerness to enhance professional development by providing robust training and resources that empower scientists at various career stages.
As the Scientific Director at SLAS, Farley will be responsible for guiding the Society’s scientific programs, furthering its mission, and fostering innovation within the global life sciences community. Her duties will include overseeing content for SLAS educational conferences, webinars, and programming, as well as supporting the Society’s two peer-reviewed journals, SLAS Discovery and SLAS Technology. Farley will also act as a scientific liaison, cultivating relationships with related disciplines to ensure the relevance and accuracy of SLAS programs and resources.
Emily Yamasaki, PhD, who has served as SLAS Interim Scientific Director since April 2023, will transition to the role of Assistant Scientific Director. This change reflects SLAS’s commitment to maintaining strong leadership as the organization continues to grow.
Farley holds a PhD in Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, Texas, where she began her research career as a Graduate Research Associate. She completed postdoctoral fellowships in pathology at McGovern Medical School and in neurosurgery at Baylor College of Medicine. Her industry career commenced as a Senior Research Scientist in Biochemistry at PharmOptima, where she mentored junior scientists and developed protocols for animal use, alongside designing and executing bioanalytical assays. She later advanced into leadership roles at GD3.
“Madeline is an outstanding addition to our team, and her expertise will help us deliver even greater value to our members, partners, and SLAS’s life sciences community,” said Vicki Loise, CEO of SLAS. With over fifteen years of experience in academic research and preclinical development, Farley has built an impressive record of publications, conference participation, and professional service. Her leadership roles include serving as president and vice president of the Baylor College of Medicine Postdoctoral Association.
Founded to enhance collaboration among researchers in academia, industry, and government, the Society of Laboratory Automation and Screening plays a pivotal role in advancing life sciences through education and community building. SLAS Discovery and SLAS Technology serve as crucial platforms for disseminating innovative research and findings in the field.
