Derek Scholes

Background

About Derek Scholes

Health and science advocacy leader and senior policy advisor with nineteen years of experience in the U.S. Congress, the Administration, and the non-profit sector, with additional extensive scientific training. Builder of organizational capacity for engagement in advocacy and policy. Effective strategist with a proven track record for advancing public policies that prioritize the public’s health and advance biomedical research. ACCOMPLISHMENTS • Built an organization’s policy, advocacy, and professional practices function, including establishing a policy platform, regular policy statements, annual Capitol Hill Day, grassroots network, and membership advocacy training, tools and resources. • Lead organizational advocate in coalitions successfully advocating for the passage of multiple landmark laws by the U.S. Congress and Canadian Parliament advancing biomedical research, precision medicine and public health. • For over a decade, co-led innovative policy fellowship, and trained and mentored science professionals in their successful transition to careers in science and health policy. AREAS OF EXPERTISE Science & Health Policy | Human Genetics and Genomics | Policy Development and Analysis | Strategic Planning, Development, and Implementation | Coalition Building | Government Relations | Legislation | Advocacy | Strategic Partnerships | Management | Leadership | Cross-Functional Teams | Collaboration | Budgeting | Strong Written and Oral Communication Skills | Mentorship | Professional Practice Guidance