Kierra Wright
KGI Bioscience Industry Advisory Board Member, Senior Program Manager, BD Parata
Dr. Kierra Wright is currently leading the inspection new product development program within the Pharmacy Automation business unit of BD Parata. The inspection line products are hardware + software combo devices designed to reduce medication errors and increase patient drug compliance. Some current activities are multiple scaled launches, internal and external integrations, and sustaining / end-of-life management for inspection products.
Immediately prior, Dr. Wright entered the single-cell genomics industry through an opportunity with the emerging company BioSkryb Genomics. Operating from the Durham headquarters in Research Triangle Park, Dr. Wright created the framework for and directed NPD programs, resulting in commercially available reagent kits and bioinformatics. These platforms are designed to support precision medicine and are actively used in high-impact areas like women’s health, oncology, and neurology. Collaborative discovery work shows promise in forensics, agriculture, food safety, and nutrition as well. Also noteworthy are the business development and relationship management skills that led to a strategic academic partnership with Carnegie Mellon and directing the cross-functional execution of the joint venture with Cooper Genomics.
Kierra began her career in med device developing and commercializing Class III devices for AAA disease. Primarily focusing on NPD and business development, she has also held functional responsibilities within Operations, Quality, Marketing, and Regulatory Affairs. Kierra has conducted early-stage drug development, commercialized Class I and II raw materials for multiple medical markets, and managed global lab services for medical, auto, lighting, and electronics BUs.
Dr. Wright holds degrees in Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Polymer Chemistry, and Bioscience Management. Certifications include a PMP, a few in advanced statistics, and one in Global Supply Chain Management. In her free time, Kierra enjoys time with family, live music, volunteering with local youth, and seeking unique culinary experiences.