Meet Our Dedicated Team of innovators, problem-solvers, and collaborators committed to driving success through creativity and expertise. Each member brings unique skills and perspectives to the table, working together to deliver exceptional outcomes and foster a culture of excellence. Get to know the people behind the projects that make our vision a reality.
Bala Sundaram is a theoretical physicist by training and former department chair who took up his role as the campus research officer in 2017. This role helps align campus activities within the multi-campus UMass system as well as respond to Commonwealth priorities including those in the ever-changing tech sector. The VDC helps facilitate his office’s support of the translational ambitions of both campus and regional researchers.
Shubhro Sen, as the Executive Director, leverages his global entrepreneurial background, including leading five companies to successful exits such as IPOs and buyouts. He has served as an advisor in enterprise strategy for major clients like Apple and Citibank and held significant academic and governmental advisory roles globally. Sen’s dedication to ethical business is highlighted by his tenure as a trustee of Conscious Capitalism Inc.
Matthew Meyer serves as the Associate Vice Provost for Research and Director of the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs at UMass Boston. In his role, he is dedicated to enhancing the university’s research enterprise by improving research infrastructure, bolstering support services, and increasing external funding and research productivity. His efforts aim to foster a vibrant translational research and innovation culture that supports UMass Boston’s mission and academic community.
Tracey Poston, serves as the Associate Director of ORSP Research Compliance and Integrity at the University of Massachusetts Boston, overseeing areas such as the Responsible Conduct of Research, regulatory compliance for human and animal studies, and research integrity. Her responsibilities include managing policies and training across multiple compliance facets including IRB, IACUC, IBC, export controls, and research security. Her role extends to monitoring conflicts of interest, effort reporting, and maintaining compliance with HIB visa regulations and the Global Entrepreneur in Residence program within the Venture Development Center. Additionally, Dr. Poston handles risk assessments, program development, accreditation, and the management of controlled substances and diving safety programs, ensuring comprehensive compliance at UMass Boston.
Serena Yan Wang, as the Research Core Facilities & Operations Manager at the University of Massachusetts Boston, manages and develops diverse research facilities such as Genomics and Proteomics. She facilitates partnerships with life sciences companies through the Massachusetts Innovation Voucher Program and supports research collaborations, having managed finance and budget strategies for a startup incubator that nurtured over 25 companies. Wang also oversees daily operations, recruits startups, and contributes to community engagement, significantly impacting the operational success and customer satisfaction of UMass’s research facilities.
Navkar Jain holds the position of Software Developer & Technical Supervisor, where he is responsible for managing and updating the VDC website and its infrastructure. His role includes addressing and resolving technical challenges, ensuring seamless operations and support within the organization. Navkar’s expertise in software development and technical supervision plays a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency and functionality of digital platforms.