Paul Bessems
CEO and co-founder
Hi,
With over a decade of entrepreneurial experience in health science and innovation and an Executive MBA, I feel it is time to make a dent in this world. I believe in empowering people to beat their own expectations. "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it's the only thing that ever has." is a quote of Margaret Mead that is engrained in my approach to leadership.
Outside of work, I truly enjoy playing volleyball, go mountain biking, and to travel with my wife and kids. I embrace outdoor life which originates from my childhood growing up in a small rural village in the South of Limburg.
If you were on a deserted island and could only choose one buddy to be with you, but your options are either an overly optimistic person or a deeply realistic person, how would you decide? On a deserted island, definitely the realistic person. Generally I can be too optimistic (the “all will work out just fine” type of attitude) which may lead to decisions that are risky and not fully considered. A balanced atmosphere that improve our chances for survival would likely emerge from the presence of someone who is more thoughtful and pragmatic.
Contact me at: paul (AT) summa-biotech.com
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Ralf Zaal
CFO/COO and co-founder
Hallo!
I have more than 20 years of experience in managing business and finance of which more than 10 years in health & life sciences. With my background in business administration my work primarily consists of running the company, managing projects, monitoring financial and legal issues and make sure everyone can do their job effectively.
At Summa I bring my energy, dedication and experience to the table. I want to make sure the company stays ‘healthy’, the people stay happy and make sure we laugh enough during the day.
What is your most rememberable food experience? A great nasi goreng on a banana leaf on the beach of Bali, the hot plate in Kathmandu's Electric Pagoda, and the exquisite wine tasting in Mendoza.
Contact me at: ralf (AT) summa-biotech.com
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Federica de Majo
CSO
Ciao!
I’m passionate about molecular biology and stem cell research. My formal training is in Molecular Biology; I completed my Master studies at the University of Padova (Italy) and my PhD in Molecular Genetics at the University of Maastricht (The Netherlands). Before joining Summa, I worked as a Postdoc in the Amsterdam University Medical Center and as a Grant writer in a renowned science consulting company.
At Summa, I bring my passion for the development of humanized experimental models to support the testing of novel RNA therapeutics. Additionally, I use my experience in grant writing to raise funds and form collaborations supporting the mission of the company.
Which three historical figures would you invite to a dinner party? Agatha Christie, Pablo Picasso and Rita Levi-Montalcini.
Contact me at: federica (AT) summa-biotech.com
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Lucía Cócera Ortega
CTO
Hola,
I’m fascinated by the molecular mechanisms that drive heart disease, and I love the challenge of turning those discoveries into real therapies. I studied Biotechnology back home in Valencia and later completed my PhD in Experimental Cardiology at Amsterdam University Medical Center, where I explored how gene regulation shapes inherited cardiac disorders. My curiosity then took me to Berlin for a postdoc at the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), where explored how gene expression is controlled in the heart using advanced molecular and genomic tools.
Now, I combine my position as a postdoctoral researcher at Maastricht University with my role at Summa, where I lead the development of novel vectors to deliver RNA and gene-based therapies. What I bring to Summa is my curiosity for uncovering new biological mechanisms and my excitement for applying them to create innovative treatments that can truly make a difference for patients.
How do I unwind after diving into genes and vectors all day? By experimenting in the kitchen (much safer than in the lab!) and diving into one of the two or three books waiting on my bedside table.
Contact me at: lucia (AT) summa-biotech.com
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Giulia Spanò
Associate Researcher and Project Manager
Ciao!
I love science and supporting scientists in managing their collaborative projects effectively. Before joining Summa, I spent the past four years performing my doctoral studies in Experimental Cardiology at Maastricht University (The Netherlands). My background in life sciences enables me to bridge the gap between scientific research and project management, contributing to the success of our initiatives.
If I could have any superpower, what would it be? If I could have any superpower, hands down, I'd choose the ability to clone myself into multiple Giulia! Why? Well, imagine being able to attend all the cool events simultaneously – running in the park, doing yoga, climbing walls and mountains, catching the latest blockbuster at the cinema, and spending time with friends, all at once! With so much to do and only 24 hours in a day, I definitely need some extra Giulia!
Contact me at: giulia (AT) summa-biotech.com
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Britt van de Water
Research Associate
Hi!
As a Research Associate at Summa, I bring a deep passion for cell culture and a great amount of curiosity for uncovering the unknown. With my degree in Biomedical Laboratory Research from Leiden University of Applied Sciences I am excited to contribute to cutting-edge research that pushes the boundaries of what we know in the heart disease medical world. My work focuses on hands-on work in the laboratory with cell culture of stem cells combined with RNA-based therapies. I am driven by the thrill of the unknown and the belief that even the smallest insight can lead to great discoveries. Outside the lab, you can find me on the volleyball field, enjoying time with friends or reading a book.
If you are going on a trip with your friends, what role would you have in this group? The best way to describe me when going on a trip with friends is being ‘mom of the group’. Meaning, making sure everyone is enjoying themselves, taking care of everyone with food and drinks, book the flights/train tickets, etc.
Contact me at: britt (AT) summa-biotech.com
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Kelsey Druppers
Intern
Hi,
Currently, I am a student in Molecular Biology at Hogeschool Utrecht with a strong interest in research combined with cell culture. I have developed a solid foundation in molecular and cell biology techniques. My internship at Summa gives me the opportunity to expand these techniques and gain experience with working with stem cells.
Outside of work, I love to spend time with my friends and family, I like to play volleyball and I regularly go to concerts.
What song title best describes my mood in the lab and why? In the lab “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey best describes my mood. The soundtrack of every long incubation period. It’s a daily reminder to keep the faith (and check the timer).
