Join us for an engaging panel discussion and networking event to share insights on building diverse teams, fostering inclusive leadership, and cultivating a sense of belonging in the life sciences industry. This event will bring together industry leaders, experts, and professionals from the Seattle biotech community to explore strategies for creating inclusive workplaces that drive innovation and success. Following the discussion, connect with peers, exchange ideas, and expand your professional network. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of an important conversation shaping the future of biotech in Seattle!

Each ticket includes hors d'oeuvres and two drink vouchers.
 

Speakers

Michelle Briscoe, COO & CFO at Talus Bioscience

Michelle is the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Talus Bio in Seattle, where she oversees all business operations, finance, HR, facilities, and company administration. Ms. Briscoe has over 25 years of experience leading scientific organizations. She is passionate about creating exceptional workplaces where employees are engaged, self-motivated towards achievement, feel valued, and have a high level of trust in management. In addition, as an LGBTQ+ leader and the co-founder of the Seattle branch of OUTbio, she is dedicated to creating workplaces and communities that are diverse, equitable, and welcoming for all. Prior to joining Talus Bio, Ms. Briscoe served as the President/CEO of Brooks Applied Labs for 8 years. Ms. Briscoe holds a BS in Chemistry and Physics from Western Oregon University.

Christian Dimaano, Vice President, Head of Medical Affairs at Lassen Therapeutics

Christian brings 20+ years of experience in the life sciences with expertise encompassing translational research, medical affairs, HEOR, patient advocacy, and clinical development. Christian is currently the VP and head of Medical Affairs at Geron where he is focused on building out US and Global efforts in support of a novel telomerase inhibitor in hematologic malignancies. Over his career, Christian has held roles of increasing responsibility at Myriad Genetics, Bristol Myers Squibb, Gilead Sciences, Astellas, and Mirati Therapeutics facilitating early asset development as well as leading the medical affairs launch of several FDA approved products. Most recently, Christian built and led the Medical Affairs functions in the small biotech setting at both Kinnate Biopharma and Lassen Therapeutics. Christian is originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, holds a PhD in Cancer Biology and has advanced training in Public Health. He serves on the Scientific Advisory Board of Curebound, a non-profit focused on funding Health Equity research, is on the Board of OUTbio Seattle, and is a STEM mentor through Biocom. He currently resides in Seattle, Washington.

Jimena Garcia, Manager of Inclusive Research Programs at Allen Institute

Jimena spearheads the development and implementation of inclusive research strategies and programs at the Allen Institute. With a steadfast commitment to open science and advancements in health, she works to foster a culture of belonging where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to thrive. With over a decade of experience, Jimena has directed healthcare operations for community health centers and led health equity initiatives for a multi-state health system. She has also managed oncology and immune health research programs, leading teams to achieve excellence in healthcare and the life sciences. Jimena's leadership is characterized by her strategic vision and dedication to fostering innovation and collaboration. In addition to her role at the Allen Institute, Jimena serves on the Advisory Board for the Latino Center for Health and holds the position of Board Vice President for the Latino Community Fund of Washington State. Outside work, she enjoys mentoring young professionals, traveling, and spending quality time with her family.

Jon Gonzalez, Partner at Deloitte

Jon has over 23 years with Deloitte & Touche LLP, including 10 years as a partner. He has served clients operating in high-growth industries such as Life Sciences and Technology. He works with a number of Life Sciences startups, including Neoleukin/Neurogene, ProfoundBio, Seagen/Pfizer, VariantBio, Outpace Bio, and Avalyn. He has extensive experience in ’33 and ’34 Securities and Exchange Act filings, acquisitions, as well as advising clients through IPOs, SPAC, or Reverse Merger transactions. In addition to his client service roles, Jon is the Growth Leader for the Pacific Northwest Audit & Assurance practice and the Hispanic & Latinx Cohort Leader for the A&A practice. He is Deloitte’s Partner sponsor for the Seattle chapter of the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA).

Jamie Hueners, Partner at Deloitte, Moderator

Jamie has over 12 years with Deloitte & Touche LLP and has served Fortune 500 and Pre-IPO clients with international operations, as well as private clients. She leads external audits and works on Accounting Advisory services, assisting companies with technical accounting issues, system implementations, and organizational optimization. In addition to her client roles, she leads the Inclusion Council at the Seattle office and has held multiple lead industry roles that have connected her with engagements and practitioners nationally and globally. She is an active participant in the NextUp community (formerly the “Network of Executive Women”) and a Board Director at the Washington Society of Certified Public Accountants.

Khánh-Dung (KD) Nguyễn, Associate Director of Precision Genetics at Mirador Therapeutics

Khánh-Dung brings over a decade of expertise in computational and translational genetics and multiomics to her advocacy for inclusive scientific environments. Throughout her career, spanning cardiovascular, metabolic, neurodegenerative, ophthalmologic, and immunology research, she has witnessed how diverse perspectives enhance the development of genetics-based medicines that better serve all communities. As her scientific career progressed, she discovered coaching as a transformative tool—not only for her own growth but as a means to support fellow STEM professionals, particularly women and underrecognized professionals navigating similar career paths. This dual perspective as both scientist and coach equips her with a unique blend of analytical precision and interpersonal insight when nurturing spaces where everyone can contribute authentically and grow holistically. Khánh-Dung looks forward to joining Women in Bio Seattle in the discussion on fostering cultures of belonging in life sciences—where scientific excellence and inclusive practices work together to advance both innovation and equity in our field.

Pricing Information

• Members/Guests: Free
• Non-members*: $40

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Please read WIB’s Code of Conduct, In-Person Event Waiver, and Refund Policy.

Note: A confirmation email will be sent after registration has been completed. 

Maximum Capacity

100

Parking Information

Free parking details will be sent via email to registrants before the event.