Dr. Robert (Bob) McDowell has over three decades of experience in the biotechnology industry, first as an individual researcher and later in management roles. Bob holds a B.S. in chemistry and physics from Butler University, a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of California at Berkeley, has authored more than 40 peer-reviewed manuscripts and is an inventor on more than 20 issued U.S. patents. Most recently, Bob was Chief Scientific Officer of MyoKardia (acquired by BMS) and co-founded Kardigan. Whether as a technical contributor or member of the executive team, in his career Bob has worked to build a culture of intellectual safety where scientists can dream together and build new therapies for patients.
Today, Bob devotes his time to supporting locally led initiatives, with a focus on East Africa. Having spent his childhood in the Middle East and Africa before moving to the US for college, Bob has a long-standing passion for education and ensuring the next generation has the tools to build a better future.

