Meet Our Team

Dr. Rafaela Andrade is the CEO and co-founder of Myomar Molecular. She has over 10 years’ experience studying cellular metabolism and molecular biology. She studied cancer cells metabolism during her PhD and completed several pre-clinical studies using therapeutic approaches to fight cancer. She transitioned into her post-doctorate fellowship and focused on muscle metabolism and muscle-related diseases. She discovered a novel role for proteins in muscle formation and degeneration. Then, she led the preclinical efforts to discover specific biomarkers to detect muscle atrophy in early stages. She moved into human studies and co-founded Myomar to create a solution for monitoring and management of muscle wasting. Since then, she led Myomar’s team into extensive proof of concept and clinical endorsement of the biomarkers. During this time, she completed the Creative Destruction Lab program and was featured nationally, she raised private and non-dilutive funds, started multi-center collaborations for development and testing of the technology. Recently, she received a prestigious national award as the Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Year by Mitacs.

Dr. Rafaela Andrade, PhD

Co-founder, CEO

Dr. Dylan Deska-Gauthier has over 10 years’ experience unraveling the mechanism underlying motor control. Dylan defended his PhD in 2021 in Medical Neuroscience and possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise in across the field. Dylan's research has centered on the intricate interplay between the nervous system, movement, and muscle-related conditions. His investigations into nanostructures and molecular complexes at the renowned iHuman Institute at ShanghaiTech University have allowed him to delve deeper into the intricacies of neural pathways and their impact on muscle function. Dylan is in his third-year of medical school at the University of Toronto. With his multifaceted background, Dylan is poised to make significant contributions to Myomar’s product development, R&D, and clinical applications to neuromuscular health.

Dr. Dylan Deska-Gauthier, PhD

Co-founder

Dr. Alyne Teixeira has over 15 years of combined experience in the pharmaceutical industry and academic settings, dedicating her career to research and development of new products. She holds a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Dalhousie University, where she developed a cost-effective technique for screening drugs and vaccines specifically designed for infectious diseases. During her Ph.D., Dr. Teixeira received prestigious awards and presented her research findings across Canada and abroad, sharing her expertise and insights with fellow researchers, scientists, and professionals in the field. After completing her Ph.D., she transitioned into a post-doctoral position, where she focused on developing an innovative assay for the early detection of Lyme disease. Driven by her passion for developing solutions in the healthcare industry, Dr. Teixeira has assumed the role of VP Research Scientist at Myomar. Leveraging her experience and expertise, she now plays an essential role in driving the R&D initiatives of the company, while actively contributing to the growth and success of the business.

Dr. Alyne Teixeira, PhD

VP Research & Development

Bruna Biagioli

Business Analyst

Bruna brings over a decade of diverse experience from both private and public sectors, including software development, project management, and information technology governance. Her sharp focus on operational efficiency has seamlessly led her into the dynamic realm of biotechnology. With a dedication to bridging the gap between science and technology, Bruna leverages her strategic insights and analytical acumen to integrate biotechnology into dynamic software solutions, facilitating interpretation and access to data. This intersection empowers the company to harness the full potential of biotechnological innovations, driving forward progress and ushering in transformative changes.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE

  • Paul Empey

    CEO Precision Biologic

  • Leah Skerry

    Serial Entrepreneur, Co-Founder Squiggle Park

 COLLABORATORS

  • Dr. Michael Dunbar

    Orthopaedic Surgeon

    Nova Scotia Health Authority

  • Dr. Rebecca Moyer

    School of Physiotherapy, Dalhousie University

  • Dr. Jonh Frampton

    Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University

  • Dr. Caitlin McArthur

    School of Physiotherapy, Dalhousie University

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