Orlando Lopez, PhD, Cpm
About Orlando Lopez, PhD, Cpm
Orlando Lopez, PhD, CPM, serves as Co-Lead of the Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics at the National Institutes of Health, focusing on innovative biosensing technologies for COVID-19. He has extensive experience in regulatory roles at the FDA and has held various positions in biomedical research and project management across multiple prestigious institutions.
Current Role at National Institutes of Health
Orlando Lopez, PhD, currently serves as the Co-Lead for the Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics - Radical - Novel Biosensing & Prognostics program at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He has held this position since 2020, focusing on innovative biosensing technologies aimed at improving COVID-19 diagnosis and the prognosis of post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). His leadership in this initiative reflects a commitment to advancing healthcare diagnostics through cutting-edge research.
Experience at National Cancer Institute
Since 2017, Orlando Lopez has been a Program Staff member on the Cancer Moonshot Enabling Technologies Implementation Team at the National Cancer Institute (NCI). His role involves contributing to the development and implementation of technologies that support cancer research and treatment. This position highlights his ongoing engagement in significant health initiatives aimed at improving cancer outcomes.
Professional Background at FDA
Orlando Lopez has extensive experience at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), where he worked from 2009 to 2016. He held various roles, including Medical Device Regulation Lead Regulatory Reviewer and Commissioner’s Fellow, where he was one of 48 selected from 1,000 applicants. His work at the FDA involved regulatory oversight of cardiovascular devices and participation in Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) and Q-Submission Programs.
Educational Background and Expertise
Orlando Lopez earned his PhD in Biomedical Engineering with a focus on Medical Imaging and Biomechanics from the Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences, completing his studies from 2000 to 2007. Additionally, he holds a Master’s Certificate in Project Management with a concentration in IT from The George Washington University School of Business. His educational background equips him with a strong foundation in both engineering and project management, enhancing his capabilities in healthcare innovation.
Contributions to Professional Standards
Orlando Lopez actively contributes to the development of professional standards in healthcare. He is involved in the American Dental Association (ADA) Standards on Dental Products and contributes to the IEEE 2933 Standard on Clinical IoT Interoperability with TIPPSS. His engagement in these initiatives underscores his commitment to advancing standards that enhance the quality and safety of healthcare technologies.