Gaylene Anderson, MBA

Candidate Biography

As Boehringer Ingelheim’s US Director for Strategic Research Relationships, Gaylene is responsible for creating partnerships and pathways for external collaboration with the US Research Organization through internal synergies as well as engagement with external scientific partners. 

Previously, she was the Director, Global Transactions and Contracts Management, and responsible for negotiating license/collaboration deals, research agreements and managing strategic alliance programs.  Prior to joining BI, Gaylene served as the Senior Director for the Cleveland Clinic/ University of Notre Dame Global Alliance Commercialization Program – managing all life science IP, negotiating license deals and research opportunities, and spinning out startup companies. 

Throughout her career, Gaylene has put a strong focus on economic development and entrepreneurship activities.  As a result, she’s created over a dozen startup companies, developed relationships with investor groups around the US, and helped grow research collaboration and licensing opportunities for university programs.  Prior to the Cleveland Clinic, she worked for the University of Idaho and the University of Hawaii, as a Senior Licensing Associate. 

Candidate Q&A

What experience do you have working on or with a strategic Board of Directors?

Yes, I served as the Treasurer for the Midwest Research University Network for 3 years; 8 years as a Board member for the Industry Advisory Board at Notre Dame's Harper Cancer Center.

If elected by the Membership to the Board, would you consider serving as Chair? Please explain.

I'm not sure this is a possibility since my current role is in industry. If allowed...perhaps?

Please share personal strengths that you believe would be valuable to the AUTM Board and/or the strategic direction of the Association?  

I spent 15 years in the academic TTO world - public, private, and large hospital health systems. Then I moved to industry to experience the pull side of the commercialization process. Seeing both sides of the "fence" really helps in driving programs/relationships forward.

What special experience do you have in driving and implementing a strategic plan?

Aside from my licensing career, I've been a professional swimming coach for 35 years, so I know how to develop short and long term plans and inspire people.

How do terms of  the position (both responsibilities and time commitment) fit with your other responsibilities? Will you have any conflicts of commitment between your full-time position and your volunteer time on the AUTM Board?

No issues.

AUTM is committed to addressing issues of equity, diversity and inclusion both on the Board and on behalf of our Members. Briefly describe how your experiences can contribute to the Association’s growth in this area.

Mostly that I am a woman, and have had the chance to live/work all over the country in different demographics.

Advocacy for the innovation ecosystem is something AUTM has promoted recently.  How do you think AUTM should continue to be involved?

Full steam ahead. Just as licensing offices have evolved in academia, so has the entire innovation ecosystem. AUTM can help advocate best practices across academia, industry and Gov't Affairs groups.

Is there anything else you would like AUTM Members to know about you before they vote?

I love helping startups, negotiating deals, networking, swimming, travelling and going to Zumba classes.