Aeja Jackson, PhD, MS, CPH, CPHQ, LSSWB
Dr. Aeja Jackson, PhD, MS, CPH, CPHQ, LSSWB, is an accomplished HEOR and Real-World Evidence (RWE) professional specializing in translating complex data into actionable insights that advance patient-centered healthcare. She currently serves as a Medical Communications Writer at OPEN Health, where she develops high-quality manuscripts, abstracts, posters, and strategic evidence communications for pharmaceutical clients. With over four and a half years in the pharmaceutical industry following a successful transition from academia, Aeja has cultivated expertise in evidence generation that informs regulatory decisions, payer strategies, and market access initiatives. Her work focuses on the access side of medications, enabling her to directly impact patient care and ensure that research findings are both relevant and meaningful.
Aeja’s career journey has been marked by resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to learning. After earning her PhD in Integrated Biomedical Sciences and conducting postdoctoral research in immunology, microbiology, and neuroscience, she navigated the challenges of the pharmaceutical industry, including layoffs and the competitive transition from academia to industry roles. These experiences strengthened her problem-solving skills and her ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively. She thrives at the intersection of science, strategy, and storytelling, ensuring that every piece of evidence she develops is scientifically rigorous, accessible, and aligned with real-world healthcare needs.
Beyond her technical expertise, Dr. Jackson is a passionate mentor, diversity advocate, and collaborative leader. She actively supports colleagues and emerging professionals by fostering inclusive environments, sharing knowledge, and providing guidance to those navigating their careers. Committed to advancing equitable, data-driven health outcomes, Aeja integrates empathy, curiosity, and purpose into all aspects of her work. Her dedication to continuous learning, patient-centered research, and professional development makes her a trusted contributor to scientific communications, HEOR initiatives, and the broader healthcare community.
• Certificate, Healthcare Informatics
• Certified in Public Health (CPH)
• Biotech Unveiled: Understanding the U.S. Biomedical Innovation Marketplace and its Global Role
• How to Speak Smarter When Put on the Spot
• Generative AI and Workplace Transformation
• Uncovering Unconscious Bias in Recruiting and Interviewing
• Certificate of Completion
• Foundations of Leadership Program Certificate of Completion
• University of Louisiana Monroe - BS, Toxicology
• Rush University - PhD
• Scientist Mentoring & Diversity Program for Biotechnology (SMDP Biotech) Scholar
• Healthcare Ministry
• ISPOR—The Professional Society for Health Economics and Outcomes Research
• University of Louisiana Monroe
• UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy
• AcademyHealth
• Rush University Graduate College
What do you attribute your success to?
I would definitely say God first I'm a religious woman. And secondly, I would attribute my success to my parents, my upbringing, and my community. They've been foundational to everything I've been able to accomplish.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is to keep an open mind. And I would add that it's not just about networking - network is very important, but keeping an open mind is just as important. You have to be willing to do something different and consider paths you might not have initially imagined for yourself.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say to keep going. All you need is one yes. Don't let the rejections or setbacks discourage you - just keep pushing forward, because it only takes that one opportunity, that one person who sees your potential, to change everything.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest opportunity in my field right now is that it's constantly changing, so there's always an opportunity to learn. With AI coming into the mix and the way social media is being used to convey information, how we communicate is changing and becoming more important. These are exciting opportunities to grow and adapt. However, there are also challenges that come with this. You have to take the time and have the time to learn, but with so much work to do, finding that time can be difficult. Personally, another challenge I face is that people see that I have my PhD in what they consider traditional science, and they put me in this box - they expect me to work on the research and development side, the R&D bench work. But I'm in a different area now, and it's been a challenge trying to be seen as an expert in this new space rather than being pigeonholed into traditional scientist roles.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My main values show up in both my work and personal life. I value doing my best in everything I do, and communicating early and as effectively as I can. I believe strongly in being honest, empathetic, and understanding. These values guide how I interact with colleagues, clients, and in my personal relationships - they're fundamental to who I am.
Locations
OPEN Health
Newark, DE 19711