Dr Debra Barker is an experienced international executive in the life sciences sector, with over 25 years of senior leadership experience across major pharmaceutical companies including Roche, SmithKline Beecham, and notably Novartis, where she held pivotal roles such as Development Head for Infectious Diseases, Immunology and Transplantation, Global Programme Head in Oncology, and Head of Clinical and Medical Services.
As Chief Medical and Development Officer at Polyphor, Debra led the medical strategy through successful IPO on the SIX Swiss Exchange and has served as Chief Medical Officer for multiple anti-infective and immunology biotechs. She also serves as a Non-Executive Director for Qureight Ltd (UK) and Board Advisor to Heidelberg Pharma AG.
Debra holds a Medical Degree from Queens’ College, University of Cambridge. She was adiditionally awarded a Diploma in Pharmaceutical Medicine and received her MSc in Immunology from King’s College London.