maria Ivaldi

I am a passionate biomedical scientist and program analyst who thrives at the intersection of science, policy, and teamwork. With over 16 years of experience in molecular biology research and NIH program management, I bring both scientific depth and a strong sense of collaboration. I am enthusiastic about advancing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia research, and I take pride in translating complex data into clear insights that support program development and regulatory compliance.

Colleagues know me as a team player who communicates openly, builds strong partnerships, and contributes to collective success. I bring energy and optimism to my work, staying adaptable in the face of changing priorities while keeping projects on track. Whether supporting multimillion-dollar biomarker portfolios, coordinating cross-functional workshops, or mentoring trainees, I am motivated by a genuine commitment to science that makes a difference in people’s lives.

I bring over 16 years of combined experience in biomedical research, NIH program analysis, and scientific administration. My career began as a molecular biologist and postdoctoral researcher, where I pioneered studies in chromatin biology and long non-coding RNAs, publishing in high-impact journals. I later transitioned into program analysis at the National Institute on Aging (NIA/NIH), where I supported two major Alzheimer’s disease portfolios: Biomarkers (100+ grants spanning blood-based, imaging, and fluid biomarkers) and Non-Pharmacological Clinical Trials. In this role, I conducted portfolio analyses, ensured compliance with NIH Data Management & Sharing policy, supported the development of funding initiatives, and coordinated high-profile scientific workshops.

Alongside my NIH work, I built leadership and operational skills as an entrepreneur, successfully running a hospitality business, managing a $500K annual budget, and leading a team of 20 employees. Earlier in my career, I contributed to research at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and GeneDx, gaining expertise in lab management, molecular genetics, and clinical data interpretation.

Across all roles, I’ve demonstrated strength as a team player and problem solver, known for my enthusiasm, adaptability, and ability to communicate science clearly to diverse stakeholders.

I hold a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina, where my dissertation research was conducted in collaboration with Johns Hopkins University and focused on chromatin biology and gene regulation. My thesis uncovered new mechanisms of RNA polymerase II release, work that was published in Genes & Development. I also earned a B.S. in Biological Sciences from the University of Buenos Aires, where my undergraduate thesis examined metabolic pathways in Trypanosoma cruzi.