Gary Kobinger PhD, Founder and Administrator
Gary Kobinger is the Director of the Galveston National Laboratory (GNL) at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). He is a renowned microbiologist specializing in emerging infectious diseases and vaccine research. Formerly the Director of the Infectious Disease Research Center at Université Laval, he is best known for his pivotal role in developing treatments and vaccines against the Ebola virus, including ZMapp, an experimental monoclonal antibody. Dr. Kobinger is recognized for his innovative approach and significant contributions to global public health, particularly in the field of rapid epidemic response. His work focuses on the development and testing of novel vaccine platforms and immunotherapies targeting emerging and re-emerging viruses with major public health implications.
Judith Pignac-Kobinger, President
Judith Pignac-Kobinger has over 20 years of expertise in translational research, with a focus on grant management, compliance, and fiscal oversight.
She has developed a unique skill set that bridges her clinical pharmacology background with bioethical principles in both clinical investigation and laboratory settings. Her expertise encompasses the implementation of clinical trials and basic science studies from inception to completion, including budget and contract management, regulatory submissions, quality assurance, adverse event monitoring, and compliance with all relevant human and animal research guidelines in the US, Canada, and internationally.
In 2021, she became the president of Global Urgent and Advanced Research and Development (GUARD), a non-profit organization. Under her leadership, GUARD has fostered a culture of responsible research conduct, ensuring adherence to appropriate guidelines and laws in the management of public and private funding. Additionally, she oversees the development and implementation of robust financial governance, strengthening GUARD’s strategic planning, fiscal oversight, and federal funding reporting. Her vision is to promote a culture of local and global partnerships, advancing innovative approaches through scientific knowledge in real-world settings.
Marie-Edith Nepveu-Traversy PhD, Executive Director and Lead Scientist
Marie-Édith Nepveu-Traversy has a background in microbiology, immunology, and virology. As the Executive Director and Lead Scientist of GUARD, she spearheads innovative initiatives to develop vaccines, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic treatments for major pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2, Ebola virus, and the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus. Her work also includes pioneering approaches, such as pseudovirus-based neutralization tests and oral vaccines aimed at reducing tick-borne diseases.
With multidisciplinary expertise, she has led large-scale projects, including the development of high-precision serological tests and the validation of functional monoclonal antibodies targeting receptors involved in cancer. She has also optimized recombinant protein expression systems to enhance yields, supporting preclinical vaccine studies and the development of cost-effective ELISA kits. Marie-Édith is deeply committed to strengthening laboratory capacities in Africa, contributing to improved disease surveillance and detection in vulnerable regions.
Bruce D. Clark PhD, Administrator
Bruce D. Clark is an accomplished leader in the biopharmaceutical industry, renowned for his expertise in vaccine development and strategic management. With a career distinguished by innovations in medical technologies and biotechnology, he has led numerous initiatives aimed at improving global health through advanced therapeutic solutions. Bruce D. Clark is highly regarded for his ability to navigate a constantly evolving sector and to mobilize teams to tackle complex challenges in pharmaceutical research and development.
Larry Zeitlin PhD, Administrator
Larry Zeitlin holds a bachelor's degree in biophysics and a Ph.D. in reproductive biology from Johns Hopkins University. He began his career as a researcher at ReProtect, LLC (Baltimore, MD) and later served as a senior scientist at Epicyte Pharmaceutical (San Diego, CA). In 2003, he co-founded Mapp Biopharmaceutical and LeafBio, Inc. (San Diego, CA) with Dr. Kevin Whaley, companies recognized for their innovations in biotechnology.
Since 2004, Larry has been an adjunct faculty member at the Biodesign Institute of Arizona State University. Throughout his career, he has dedicated himself to developing monoclonal antibody-based products to address critical public health needs related to infectious diseases.
Brad Goble, Co-Founder and Administrator
Brad Goble has over 30 years of experience in public and private sector organizations in the fields of health and safety, both nationally and internationally. He has been an active leader within the G7’s multilateral health security organization, the Global Health Security Action Group (GHSAG), and has served as a senior advisor to the WHO on key global health security initiatives.
Mr. Goble brings expertise in developing strategies to strengthen global capacity to respond to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats. His work includes advancing medical countermeasures and establishing consortia for their development. He has also worked closely with the Public Health Agency of Canada, addressing issues and challenges related to the country’s premier scientific facility, the National Microbiology Laboratory.
A recognized expert in public health, emergency preparedness, and response, Mr. Goble possesses deep knowledge of biosafety and biosecurity issues.
A retired officer of the Canadian Armed Forces, Mr. Goble holds an Honours Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Commerce from the Royal Military College of Canada and an Executive MBA from Queen’s University. He is a co-founder and former board member of the International Federation of Biosafety Associations and currently serves on the Board of Directors of GUARD.
Amadou Alpha Sall PhD, Administrator
Dr. Amadou Alpha Sall is a globally renowned virologist, public health expert, and specialist in emerging infectious diseases. He currently holds a senior position at the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), where he plays a pivotal role in accelerating vaccine development and coordinating global responses to epidemics.
Prior to joining CEPI, Dr. Sall served as the Director General of the Institut Pasteur de Dakar (IPD), overseeing major initiatives in research, diagnostics, and infectious disease control, including vaccine production and strengthening laboratory capacities across Africa. Under his leadership, the IPD became a key player in combating pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2, Ebola virus, and yellow fever.
With over two decades of experience, Dr. Sall has been a technical advisor to the WHO and other international organizations, contributing to strategic initiatives aimed at improving epidemic surveillance and preparedness in vulnerable regions. He is also a leading authority in the research of arboviruses and zoonoses.
Dr. Sall is widely recognized for his commitment to advancing scientific innovation and strengthening healthcare systems in Africa, while playing a critical role in global coordination efforts to prevent and address emerging health threats.