Influential Woman · Pharmaceutical Industry
Doris Yimgang, PhD, MPH, MA
Director of Epidemiology, AbbVie
Fort Pierce, FL 34982
Her Story
About Doris
Doris Yimgang, PhD, MPH, MA, is a strategic epidemiology leader and Director of Epidemiology with expertise in pharmacoepidemiology, real-world evidence (RWE), regulatory science, and drug safety. At AbbVie, she leads the design and execution of post-marketing safety studies and evidence-generation strategies, partnering with global cross-functional teams and health authorities to support regulatory decision-making, product development, and patient safety. Her work focuses on transforming complex healthcare data into meaningful scientific evidence that advances regulatory strategy and improves health outcomes.
Originally from Cameroon, Dr. Yimgang began her academic journey in journalism and communication before immigrating to the United States to pursue a career in science. Starting at a community college, she went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Biology, a Master of Public Health, and a PhD in Epidemiology. Her career has included research and teaching at the University of Maryland, Baltimore; pharmacovigilance research with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA); program evaluation consulting with the Maryland Area Health Education Center; and leadership roles in the pharmaceutical industry.
Dr. Yimgang brings a global perspective shaped by her experiences living and working across Africa, Europe, and North America. She continues to expand her leadership capabilities through the Stanford LEAD Executive Program at Stanford University Graduate School of Business.
Throughout her career, she has remained committed to advancing evidence-based healthcare through scientific collaboration, innovation, and regulatory excellence. She attributes her success to lifelong curiosity, effective communication, resilience, a strong work ethic, humility, continuous learning, and her Christian faith.
Beyond her professional work, Dr. Yimgang participates in humanitarian and missionary initiatives, community health outreach, and service through her church and other nonprofit organizations. She enjoys hiking, exercising, traveling, and cooking. Her mission is to build meaningful partnerships across science, policy, and industry that improve patient care and contribute to better global health outcomes.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Doris
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to maintaining a deep sense of curiosity and continually seeking opportunities to learn and grow. As a first-generation Black immigrant, I’m especially grateful to my parents, who instilled in me a strong work ethic and a deep value for education and community. Throughout my career, I’ve embraced opportunities to learn across disciplines, cultures, and sectors, and I’ve learned to view challenges as opportunities for growth. My Christian faith provides the foundation for both my personal and professional life, and my commitment to lifelong learning—including leadership development through Stanford Global School of Business —continues to help me expand my impact.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've received is to be faithful with what's in front of you. I've learned that excellence in small responsibilities builds the credibility and character needed for greater opportunities. When I focus on doing quality work, acting with integrity, and building strong relationships, I've found that the right opportunities tend to come at the right time.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't lose sight of why you entered this field. Whether you're conducting research, developing medicines, or shaping public health policy, your work has the potential to improve and save lives. Let that purpose guide you, especially during challenging seasons. And don't be afraid to use your voice, ask questions, and share your ideas — your perspective and expertise matter.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in our field is the growing use of artificial intelligence and real-world evidence, from drug discovery through post-marketing safety. AI can help us accelerate research and generate more timely evidence. The challenge is ensuring we use these technologies responsibly, with attention to data quality, bias, transparency, and scientific rigor. I see the greatest opportunity in using AI to augment epidemiologic expertise and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My core values are perseverance, collaboration, kindness, and faith. I believe meaningful work is driven by purpose, and I strive to approach every opportunity with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to improving patients’ lives through evidence-based science. Whether in my career or personal life, I want to leave every organization and every person better than I found them.
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