Darex J. Vera Rodriguez

Darex is a fourth-year PhD Candidate in the Biochemistry and Biophysics Department interested in life sciences consulting and big-pharma venture capital. His research investigates the concept of allostery, a biological phenomenon critical for cellular signaling and communication, which presents strong potential for developing highly-specific and less toxic therapeutics to treat multiple malignancies. He currently serves as a graduate student representative in front of the Graduate Education Committee of my PhD-granting department and as a peer mentor for post-baccalaureate scholars at UNC PREP. He’s interested in pursuing a career in consulting and venture capital with the main objective of turning highly-technical biological complexities into practical solutions to improve human health and lifestyle. He’s eager to participate and learn more about the entrepreneurial efforts at UNC and expand his network with field experts in the Research Triangle through the Venture Catalyst Program.