Executive Brief

Chief Financial Officer
Buck Institute

March 2024

About the Buck Institute: Pioneers in the study of the biology of aging

Founded in 1999, the Buck Institute for Research on Aging has emerged as a global leader in aging research. From its inception, the Buck has been dedicated to unraveling the complexities of aging and age-related diseases.

The Buck Institute stands as the world’s only research institution singularly focused on the biology of aging, positioning itself at the forefront of this critical field. Recognizing that aging is a multifaceted issue requiring a multidisciplinary approach, the institute hires scientists from diverse backgrounds, fostering collaboration and innovation to tackle the challenges of aging comprehensively.

To support its mission of collaboration and interdisciplinary research, they have meticulously designed its campus in collaboration with the renowned architect I.M. Pei. This architectural marvel not only reflects their commitment to breaking down silos but also serves as a catalyst for fostering collaboration among researchers.

Through its groundbreaking research and dedication to collaboration, the Buck Institute for Research on Aging continues to lead the way in advancing our understanding of aging and shaping the future of healthcare.

MISSION

To end the threat of age-related disease for this and future generations: The Buck Institute believes it is possible for people to enjoy their lives at 95 as much as they do at 25, and to achieve that, they’re seeking a more comprehensive understanding of the biology of aging itself.

COMMITMENT TO DEI

The Buck Institute places the highest value on diversity, inclusion and equity: They believe that every person, regardless of their gender, race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, physical ability, or socioeconomic status, deserves to thrive in their community, that diversity is an essential element of our science, and that breakthroughs can only occur in an open and inclusive environment. The Buck is fully committed to standing by these principles. Lear more here.

LEADERSHIP

Because of how the Buck Institute is structured, how they conduct their research, and the elite collection of scientists they have working with, the Buck is in a unique position to define the approach for solving many of the biggest problems facing the world today. The Buck’s leadership works every day to ensure their scientists have the support and resources they need as they tackle these immense challenges.

Learn more about the team here.

Executive Team

Eric Verdin is a leading expert in epigenetic regulation of aging. With an MD from the University of Liege and extensive research experience, including at Harvard Medical School and the Gladstone Institutes, Verdin's work focuses on understanding how factors like metabolism and diet impact the aging process through enzymes like HDACs and sirtuins. He has published over 210 papers, holds numerous patents, and has received prestigious awards for his contributions to the field.

Leroy "Lee" Edward Hood, an American biologist, pioneered transformative scientific instruments like the gas phase protein sequencer and automated DNA sequencer, crucial for breakthroughs such as the Human Genome Project and HIV treatment. Hood's interdisciplinary vision led to founding the Institute for Systems Biology and advocating "P4 medicine." Honored as a member of the National Academy of Engineering and recognized by Scientific American, his contributions have profoundly impacted biotechnology.

Meagan Moore is the Chief Operating Officer at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging, since October 2023. Prior to this role, she served as the Chief Administrative Officer for seven years, overseeing various aspects of operations. Meagan's experience also includes directing sponsored programs and managing grants and contracts at both the Buck Institute and the Gladstone Institutes. She has a background in research process management, having worked at Stanford University earlier in her career.

Nancy Derr serves as the Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging, a position she has held since April 1998. With over 26 years of experience at the institute, Nancy plays a vital role in managing its financial operations and strategic planning. Prior to joining the Buck Institute, she served in financial roles at Marin Academy and the J. David Gladstone Institutes. She is based in Novato, California, and holds a degree from the University of California, Berkeley.

Remy Gross is the Vice President of Business Development & Technology Advancement at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging since 2006, focusing on understanding aging's link to chronic disease. Alongside his role, he serves as CEO of RCP Companies, specializing in real estate development, where his decade-long tenure highlights his leadership in creative development and value-add transactions. Gross also holds board positions at Napa Therapeutics and BHB Therapeutics, Ltd., affirming his expertise in biomedical business development.

Gordon Lithgow currently serves as the Vice President of Academic Affairs at The Buck Institute. With over two decades of experience, he has led research groups focusing on aging and age-related diseases. His work includes identifying small molecules that slow aging. Prior to his tenure at the Buck Institute, Lithgow served as a Senior Lecturer at the University of Manchester, contributing significantly to aging research in the UK.

Danielle Herrerias is the Vice President of Human Resources at Buck Institute. With 20 years of diverse management experience in HR, Recruiting, and Administration, she specializes in talent acquisition, workforce planning, employee relations, performance management, benefits administration, compliance, and HRIS implementation.