Madhurima Dhara, PhD

Dr. Madhurima Dhara is a Principal Scientist at Verge Genomics, where she leads cutting-edge research in neuroscience and metabolic disorders to accelerate drug discovery and development. With over 15 years of experience spanning academia and biotech, she specializes in building and scaling human-relevant 2D and 3D in vitro disease models that drive mechanistic understanding, target validation, and IND-enabling studies. Her leadership in multidisciplinary teams and collaborations with industry partners such as Eli Lilly and AstraZeneca reflects her ability to integrate scientific innovation with strategic execution to advance transformative therapeutics.

Before joining Verge Genomics, Dr. Dhara served as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Janssen Research & Development (Johnson & Johnson), where she conducted genome-wide screening and high-content imaging studies to identify and validate novel protein regulators involved in neuronal receptor assembly and function. Her earlier academic work at the University of Saarland, Germany, focused on elucidating the biophysical mechanisms of calcium-dependent exocytosis in neurons and neuroendocrine cells, earning her a PhD in Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology (Summa Cum Laude). Her scientific contributions have provided key insights into cellular signaling, ion channel biology, and molecular mechanisms underlying neurological diseases.

Beyond the laboratory, Madhurima is passionate about mentorship, diversity in STEM, and global child welfare initiatives. She actively supports organizations such as Women in Bio and Save the Children, reflecting her belief in science as both an intellectual and humanitarian pursuit. Outside of research, she enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her young daughter. Guided by her personal mantra—“Give yourself some grace”—she continues to inspire the next generation of scientists through her dedication, empathy, and curiosity.

• Universität des Saarlandes - PhD

• Awarded Best PhD