Indian American Biotech Leader Heads Maryland Women Entrepreneur Institute

The appointment was announced by the IWEE board on Thursday. Santhanam, who holds a doctorate in molecular biology, brings more than two decades of experience in biotechnology and drug development to the role.

She currently serves as chief scientific officer at a Maryland-based biotech firm. Her work has focused on developing therapies for rare genetic disorders, and she holds several patents in gene-editing technologies.

IWEE, based in Rockville, provides mentorship, funding access, and networking opportunities to women entrepreneurs in the life sciences and technology sectors. The institute has supported over 200 startups since its founding in 2015.

Santhanam succeeds outgoing chair Dr. Karen Liu, who led the board for two terms. In her new role, Santhanam will oversee strategic planning and fundraising efforts to expand the institute's programs across the mid-Atlantic region.