Heather Rooke
About Heather Rooke
Heather Rooke serves as the Director of Strategic Alliances at the Genomics Platform of the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, where she has worked since 2021. She has extensive experience in the fields of stem cell research and genomics, having held various leadership roles in prestigious institutions such as Harvard University and the Broad Institute.
Current Role at Broad Institute
Heather Rooke serves as the Director of Strategic Alliances for the Genomics Platform at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. In this role, she is responsible for developing and managing critical partnerships that enhance the organization's research capabilities. Rooke has been with the Broad Institute since 2021, focusing on strategic initiatives that align with the institute's mission in genomics and biomedical research.
Previous Experience at Broad Institute
Prior to her current position, Heather Rooke worked at the Broad Institute as the Director of Covid Program Alliances from 2020 to 2023. In this capacity, she played a key role in establishing partnerships that supported the institute's response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Her experience at the Broad Institute reflects her commitment to advancing scientific collaboration in critical areas of research.
Professional Background in Stem Cell Research
Heather Rooke has an extensive background in stem cell research. She served as the Executive Director of the Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology at Harvard University from 2017 to 2020. Additionally, she was the Scientific Director at the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) from 2009 to 2017, where she contributed to the advancement of the field through scientific communication and program development.
Educational Qualifications
Heather Rooke holds a PhD in Molecular Medicine from The University of Auckland, which she completed between 1995 and 2000. She also earned a Master of Science in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the same university from 1993 to 1995, and a Bachelor of Science from 1990 to 1992. Her academic background provides a strong foundation for her work in genomics and stem cell research.
Skills and Contributions
In her professional roles, Heather Rooke has demonstrated skills in developing scientific programs and educational resources that foster collaboration and integrity in research. She ensures compliance with federal and institutional requirements, oversees budget planning, and manages financial administration for various funds. Rooke also communicates the value of scientific discovery to diverse audiences and provides media talking points for organizational representatives.