As the Senior Director of R&D Patient Science at AstraZeneca, Barbara Valastro is at the forefront of transforming clinical trial methodologies to prioritize patient-centric approaches. With over 15 years of extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Barbara has honed her expertise across various therapeutic areas,...
As the Senior Director of R&D Patient Science at AstraZeneca, Barbara Valastro is at the forefront of transforming clinical trial methodologies to prioritize patient-centric approaches. With over 15 years of extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Barbara has honed her expertise across various therapeutic areas, including Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders, renal diseases, and respiratory conditions. Her leadership journey has equipped her with a deep understanding of pharmacology and neuroscience, enabling her to drive impactful change within the clinical development landscape.
Since taking on her current role in January 2023, Barbara has been instrumental in spearheading key initiatives that focus on enhancing clinical trial diversity and fostering meaningful engagement with patient groups. Under her guidance, her team is dedicated to integrating patient perspectives into the design and execution of clinical trials, ensuring that the voice of the patient is not only heard but actively shapes the research process. This commitment to patient-centricity is critical in addressing the unique needs of diverse populations and improving overall trial outcomes.
Barbara's strategic vision encompasses leveraging her background in life sciences and drug discovery to innovate trial designs that are more inclusive and representative. By collaborating closely with clinical teams and external stakeholders, she aims to create a more holistic approach to clinical research that ultimately leads to better therapeutic options for patients. Her passion for advancing patient science reflects a broader commitment within AstraZeneca to prioritize the patient experience, making her a pivotal figure in the evolution of modern clinical trials.