OTRADI fills the gap between research and commercialization by providing resources and expertise found nowhere else in Oregon. OTRADI operates Oregon’s only nonprofit collaborative bioscience discovery laboratory, as well as the state’s first and only bioscience-specific incubator.
The Oregon Translational Research and Development Institute (OTRADI) was initiated in 2007 with a mission to translate scientific research developed in the state of Oregon’s research laboratories into commercial ventures. The word “translational” refers to this task: transforming research into industry.
Ms. Ellis joined the OBI in the Fall of 2017 and within two years of joining the organization, she became OBI’s Assistant Director. As Assistant Director she developed entrepreneurial programs, grew OBI’s partnerships and collaborations, participated on the Portland Innovation Quadrant’s startup resources work group, acted as OBI’s digital and marketing presence, as well as developed programs, workshops and events designed to grow Oregon’s startup bioscience and digital health ecosystem.
In her current role as Interim Director, Heather manages and oversees all of OBI and OTRADI operations and spearheads OBI’s newest initiatives. Since her arrival, the OBI has grown from 18 to 29 companies. She is also participates as a board member of the Portland Innovation Quadrant.
Ms. Ellis graduated from Portland State University, receiving a bachelor’s degree with minors in Business and Communications.
Ms. Thompson is an administrator with years of experience providing associations and businesses with managerial support. Before joining OTRADI, Thompson was an executive assistant at a number of large organizations, including Newsweek magazine and the City Club of San Francisco.
Mr. Coombs joined the OBI in the Spring of 2019 and will aid in the implementation our entrepreneurial programs as well as provide operational support.
Alexander will help drive OBI’s newest initiatives and act as OBI’s digital and marketing presence designed to grow Oregon’s startup bioscience and digital health ecosystem.
Mr. Coombs graduated from Appalachian State University, receiving a B.S. in Cell biology with a minor in Chemistry.
