For years, Pennington’s Applied Science Certificate Program has afforded students unique opportunities to explore various different STEM fields and make connections between those fields and the larger world. A key component of the program is the lecture series, which welcomes key industry leaders to Pennington throughout the year to enrich the student experience. A recent visit from Dr. Latonia Harris offered students in the program a window into the realm of biotherapeutic research.

On Friday, May 2, Dr. Harris shared details of her work during a short presentation in Yen’s Wesley Forum, before opening the floor up to questions. Harris is a distinguished leader in the field of biopharmaceuticals and a senior director at Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicines, where she currently leads a team of scientists responsible for ensuring the quality of J&J’s biotherapeutics portfolio. Additionally, Harris has played a critical role in the development and approval of key oncology therapies. 

She holds a PhD in chemical engineering from Northwestern University and has over 25 years of experience in research, development, and product quality management. Beyond her industry achievements, Harris is an advocate for education and service, actively participating on advisory boards for several academic and nonprofit institutions over the years, including Northwestern University Master’s in Biotechnology Program Industrial Advisory Board, the Rutgers Industrial Advisory Board for NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates, and the Good Grief Board of Directors. She currently serves on the University of Delaware College of Engineering Advisory Council and is a member of the National Academy of Engineering.