Who we are

Treasurer and Sponsor Liaison - Justin Kurian, PhD
Justin received his Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering from the University of Delaware in 2012, followed by a stint in the pharmaceutical industry as a validation engineer. This experience inspired him to delve into basic science research, leading to the completion of a PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Florida in 2019, focusing on parvovirus structure and function. With his continued interest in the R&D space, Justin now supports the development of gene therapies for rare diseases at Pfizer. As a member of TBT, he looks forward to promoting lively discourse and networking between faculty/students/postdocs, industry professionals, and all who have a passion for the life sciences.

Executive Team Members

Michael received his Ph.D. in 2010 at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities. He moved to the area for a postdoc at Duke University. Dr. Davies became an independent financial advisor. Using his strong scientific background and a passion for helping others, he takes an analytical approach to assess and determine what a client needs to accomplish their financial goals. To honor those folks that helped him out along the way, he started Life Science Networking to pay it forward, help educate folks on how to put their first and best foot forward, and guide people on how to build meaningful relationships. He brings this passion for networking to his role as President of Triangle Biotech Tuesday.

President - Michael Davies, PhD

Jeff received his Ph.D. in 2008 from Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm as a member of the NIH-Karolinska Institutet Graduate Partnership Program for work on the biological mechanisms of disease in genetic forms of Parkinson's disease. He currently investigate the impact of RNA biology in HIV infection at Duke University.

Treasurer - Jeff Blackinton, PhD *Founding Member

Nguyen is an experienced Scientist focusing on Leadership, Project Management, Process Improvement and Business Development. He has a PhD in Genetics from Iowa State University. He prides himself in principles of Integrity, Authenticity, Being Open-minded, and Being in the Moment, which continues to guide him throughout his life. He has 10+ years of experience in life science research, and cross-applies himself in leadership, professional development, coaching, social innovations, business processes, marketing and market research spaces with the goals of providing an increase of the bottom line.

Director of Catering - Nguyen Phan, PhD

Azad received a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from North Carolina State University. He also pursued a master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Science at North Carolina Central University, with a concentration in BioInformatics’. His extensive experience in R&D, Validation, Quality Assurance, Business Development, and as a technical product expert, he decided to extend his responsibilities to TBT as Event Coordinator.

Event Coordinator - Azad Karimi

Director of Communications - Amanda Van Swearingen, PhD

Sponsor Coordinator - William Henry

Communications Coordinator - Anne Ballou, PhD

The Executive Team Members for TBT organize and coordinate the monthly networking events. If you are interested in joining our team, let us know or send us an email!