ISEV Member Advisory Vote

Ahna Skop - University of Wisconsin Madison

My motivation to apply for the Member-at-Large position comes from a lifelong commitment to advancing cell biology and building inclusive, creative scientific communities. With over 30 years of experience studying cytokinesis and midbody remnants—the original extracellular vesicles of cell division—I see an exciting opportunity to integrate this foundational biology more fully into the ISEV community. As both a long-time academic investigator and the Chief Scientific Officer of aMBR Genomics, a biotechnology company translating midbody remnant biology into novel diagnostic tools, I am deeply invested in connecting fundamental discovery with clinical and translational innovation. I hope to use this dual perspective to help ISEV recognize and include midbody remnants as an essential part of the extracellular vesicle landscape moving forward.

Over the next two years, I aim to contribute to initiatives that broaden participation, foster interdisciplinary connections, and enhance visibility for underrepresented voices and research areas. I am particularly passionate about bridging basic science with application, amplifying opportunities for early-career scientists, and using creative, visual approaches to communicate complex concepts within and beyond our Society. At the end of my term, I would hope for an ISEV that feels even more connected, innovative, and inclusive—a society that champions both rigorous science and diverse perspectives, embracing new discoveries like midbody remnants as integral to the evolving story of extracellular vesicles.

Cesar Castro – Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital

As a physician-scientist positioned at the interface of nanotechnology and oncology, my career has been dedicated to bridging the "valley of death" between engineering innovation and clinical implementation. Having co-developed novel platforms such as nPLEX and SCOPE (based on nanoplasmonics and CRISPR, respectively), I have witnessed both the transformative potential of EVs and the regulatory and standardization hurdles that need to be addressed. Furthermore, serving as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Extracellular Vesicles has been deeply impactful, providing me with a unique vantage point on the global breadth of our field and reinforcing the urgent need for cross-disciplinary rigor. This role has profoundly shaped my appreciation for ISEV as an essential steward of scientific standards. My candidacy is driven by the conviction that ISEV must lead the global shift from showcasing the potential of EV technologies to establishing the reproducible frameworks necessary for their adoption as clinical standards. My motivation is to leverage my experience with JEV, the NCI Liquid Biopsy Consortium, and my role as an IRB Chair to help ISEV lead the global effort to establish the clinical and regulatory frameworks necessary for EV-based diagnostics to become a standard of care.

By the conclusion of my term, I envision ISEV as the primary conduit between the EV community and global regulatory bodies, having established the robust frameworks necessary for EV-based diagnostics to become a clinical standard of care. Furthermore, I am committed to democratizing these technologies through global outreach - drawing on my NIH funded diagnostic efforts in resource limited countries – and fostering an inclusive pipeline for the next generation of diverse EV leaders.

Jacki Kornbluth – Saint Louis University

The EV field combines all the things I love about research. In my early years as an immunologist, I studied an enigmatic cell, which we now know is a natural killer (NK) cell. These cells captured my attention and still do, moving from enigmatic to a treatment for many types of cancer. NK cells led me to EVs, another challenging but fascinating area of research. And this field is moving closer to the clinic. I am partnering with a company to develop NK-derived EVs as a new cancer treatment. With a combination of my academic leadership experience and what I have learned in a commercial enterprise, I believe I have the skills to help lead ISEV to the future. I want to excite young investigators to study EVs and help ISEV members collaborate with companies to develop EV therapies for cancer, wound healing, autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases. I would like to see ISEV grow and be the definitive EV world organization.

Jennifer Alexander-Brett – Washington University School of Medicine

My basic-translational research lab in pulmonary disease is heavily focused on extracellular vesiclemediated respiratory mucosal intracellular crosstalk. We have active projects in EV-based biomarkers of lung disease and EV-based therapeutics-both in preclinical stages and through sponsored clinical trials. I have long wanted to become more involved in ISEV to solidify my involvement in the international community studying EV biology. I have maintained membership and attended conferences in recent years with my trainees. A position as a board member would provide me with an opportunity to contribute to the society from the perspective of a physician-scientist passionate about harnessing the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of EVs.

Ke Cheng – Columbia University

As the co-founder and current Board of Director Chair of American Association of Extracellular Vesicles (AAEV, www.aaev.org), I am running for this position to foster the collaboration and coordination between the two organizations. I envision that there are many things AAEV can do to enhance the impact of ISEV in North America. My qualifications: I have been charing the BOD of AAEV since the launch of the organization, serving as the founding editor-in-chief of AAEV's official journal, and behind every single AAEV annual meeting since 2021. Last year (in 2025), AAEV annual meeting had 300 participants and 27 sponsors. Besides AAEV, I have the following leadership/translation experience: Chair of an NIH study section which reviews a large number of EV-related grants, co-founder of a biotech company which received IND approval to test EV products in patients with acute lung injury (IND19942), Chair of the Bioengineering Committee of American Heart Association. In terms of science, my EV-related work has been summarized in scientific journals such Nature Biotech, Nature Nanotech, Nature BME, Nature Communications, Nature Reviews Bioengineering, Science Translational Medicine, etc. I have been a Clarivate "Highly Cited Researcher" since 2022.

Kristen Dellinger – North Carolina A&T State University

I’m excited about the future of EV research. Our field touches so many areas (e.g., medicine, agriculture, nutrition) and we’re only beginning to scratch the surface of what’s possible. In my lab at North Carolina A&T State University, we’re working on new technologies that can help move the field forward and make it easier for others to realize the full potential of EVs. Therefore, my main motivation for applying as a Member-at-Large is to become more involved in the ISEV community, to listen and learn about the real needs and challenges we’re all facing, and to help support the continued growth of the field. I want to play a part in connecting people, whether they’re early-career scientists, established researchers, or newcomers, so that we can all benefit from each other’s perspectives and experiences.

In the next two years, I see both the EV field and ISEV growing even more. I think we’ll see more interest from people outside the traditional boundaries of EV research, including big industry investments and other disciplines, as they start to see how EVs can help address important societal challenges. I hope to help foster some of these new connections and conversations, and to encourage more collaboration across different areas.

ISEV has already done an incredible job promoting and standardizing EV research, and I’d love to help build on that foundation, whether that’s by helping to develop educational materials or resources, or supporting communications or new guidelines. In sum, I would like to be an active and supportive member of this community. I care about making EV research as accessible, rigorous, and impactful as possible, and I think serving as a Member-at-Large would be a great way for me to give back and help shape where we’re headed next.

Luis L P da Silva – University of São Paulo, Ribeirao Preto Medical School

My motivation to serve as a Member-at-Large of the ISEV is rooted in a long-standing commitment to membrane trafficking research and in a strong desire to contribute to the scientific growth, inclusivity, and global reach of the EV community.

For more than two decades, my work has focused on protein transport in the secretory pathway and how these mechanisms are subverted during viral infection. Over the past 16 years as an independent investigator, I have led a research program integrating cell biology, virology, and extracellular vesicle biology, resulting in approximately 40 peer-reviewed publications. A central theme of my research has been the bidirectional relationship between viral infection and extracellular vesicles, including early contributions demonstrating how viral proteins remodel EV composition and influence intercellular communication. This interdisciplinary perspective supports a view of EVs as active biological entities central to host–pathogen interactions.

As a Member-at-Large, I would work to strengthen cross-disciplinary interactions within ISEV, particularly between EV researchers in basic cell biology, infectious diseases, and translational research. I am also deeply committed to capacity building and inclusivity, especially for researchers in underrepresented regions. Based in Latin America, I am motivated to help expand geographic representation, support earlycareer scientists, and promote training initiatives aligned with ISEV’s mission.

At the end of a two-year term as a Member-at-Large, I see myself as an engaged and dependable contributor to ISEV, having helped strengthen interactions between extracellular vesicle research, membrane trafficking, and infectious disease biology. I aim to contribute to initiatives that support early career researchers, expand training opportunities, and increase participation from underrepresented regions, particularly in the Global South. I envision ISEV continuing to consolidate its role as a scientifically rigorous and globally inclusive society, fostering meaningful cross-disciplinary exchanges and supporting the next generation of EV scientists. My goal is to help build lasting connections and initiatives that continue to benefit the Society beyond my term.

Matias Ostrowski – University of Buenos Aires

My motivation to apply for a Member-at-Large position arises from a moment of transition—both for the field of extracellular vesicles and for my own scientific trajectory. Over the past two decades, I have been deeply engaged in fundamental EV biology, contributing to basic questions related to EV composition, biogenesis, and immune functions. In parallel with the maturation of the field, my research is now increasingly expanding toward the therapeutic and translational potential of EVs, particularly in the context of inflammatory diseases.

If elected, I would aim for my participation as a Member-at-Large on the ISEV Board to actively reflect and support this transition, helping to bridge rigorous basic EV research with emerging translational and clinical applications. While I strongly believe that many fundamental questions in EV biology remain unanswered, I also see a clear opportunity for ISEV to further consolidate its role as the leading society guiding the responsible and evidence-based translation of EV science into therapies.

I view my potential contribution as complementary to that of Board members who have already advanced along translational or clinical paths. I would bring the perspective of a researcher rooted in long-standing basic EV biology, combined with the energy and commitment to help foster dialogue, initiatives, and community-building efforts that support the next phase of the field. This includes promoting interactions between basic scientists, clinicians, and industry, encouraging training opportunities in translational EV research, and helping that ISEV remains both scientifically rigorous and forward-looking.

By the end of a two-year term, I would hope to see ISEV further strengthened as a society that not only defines standards and advances fundamental knowledge, but also actively shapes the trajectory of EVbased therapeutics, supporting its members as the field progressively translates discovery into practical application. Personally, I see myself contributing to this effort as an engaged Board member who helps connect past achievements in basic EV research with the evolving translational directions of the field.

Mei He – University of Florida

I have ~20 years of experience in the field of extracellular vesicle research, and academic education management. I also served as the director of graduate program in our institute (University of Florida College of Pharmacy Department of Pharmaceutics). I have been the chairs for many national and international conferences such as AAPS (~6000+ attendees) and AAEV (~300 attendees). Thus, I would like to contribute my skills to the EV society for promoting research and education. I believe engaging in community service could develop personal growth and self-discovery, and gain new skills as valuable experiences. I strive to create a positive and transformative impact on both individuals and society as a whole, fostering a sense of connection and unity.

Mona Batish – University of Delaware

As an active leader within the ISEV community, including my current roles as Co-Chair of the RNA Task Force and Associate Editor for the Journal of Extracellular Biology, My career has focused on developing high-resolution tools to visualize and quantify RNA within EVs; I intend to bring this same rigor to the ISEV Executive Board.

Executive Chair of Science and Journals: My primary objective is to elevate the scientific rigor and visibility of our flagship journals. I will leverage my editorial experience to champion the adoption of "Live Data" reporting and refine peer-review processes to specifically address the unique challenges of EV characterization. By fostering special issues that highlight emerging technologies—such as single-EV analysis (e.g., SPIRFISH) and AI-driven cargo prediction—I aim to ensure ISEV journals remain the ultimate authority in a rapidly evolving field. We must lead the conversation on standardizing RNA-EV reporting to ensure reproducibility across global laboratories.

Executive Chair of Translation, Regulation & Advocacy: Transitioning EV-based therapies and diagnostics from the lab to the clinic requires clear regulatory pathways. My goal is to bridge the gap between fundamental research and clinical applications. I will focus on translating MISEV guidelines into "Clinical Best Practice" toolkits for our members. By advocating for standardized molecular diagnostic frameworks, I intend to help researchers navigate the complexities of patenting, regulatory compliance, and clinical validation.

I believe that ISEV is more than a society; it is a catalyst for innovation. Whether through optimizing our journals' scientific output or advocating for a clearer path to translation, my leadership will be rooted in transparency, inclusivity, and the empowerment of our diverse global membership. By aligning our rigorous scientific standards with clear translational pathways, we will solidify ISEV’s role as the catalyst for the next generation of regenerative medicine and molecular diagnostics.

Natalie Turner – The Scripps Research Institute

My motivation to be a part of ISEV has always been to dedicate myself to the dissemination of educational materials that can improve rigor and reproducibility in the field. I see the EV community struggling with the amount and complexity of information provided to them, especially for newcomers, but also as established EV researchers who may meet roadblocks to research for various reasons. As a Member-At-Large, my vision to serve the EV community involves encouraging community outreach and engagement, and enhanced accessibility to meetings (virtual and in-person), open discussion forums, and dedicated symposia at annual meetings and workshops to address current roadblocks to research, with special focus on biomarkers and therapeutics. We also have a responsibility to educate the general public and other fields regarding the importance of EV research, and this may be better achieved by holding more general forums or actively engaging other fields to solicit dedicated symposia on EVs within larger conferences.

I am also fully committed to the future of ISEV by supporting our ECRs and the next generation of scientists who will contribute to the field. SNEV was an incredible platform for me and as a Member-At-Large, I would like to work closely with SNEV to ensure the needs of our ECRs are being met, while also promoting the adoption of increased recognition via early career awards (new investigator, encouragement awards, outstanding contributions [academic and community]), which would align ISEV more closely with other research societies.

At the end of my two-year term, I hope that my contributions would see increased engagement across all platforms, evidenced by increased virtual/in-person meeting attendance, greater progress towards translational applications of EVs, and perhaps expansion of ISEV to include greater diversity in task forces and committees, both in expertise level and subcategory of EV research. As a personal goal, I would be honored to reapply for a second term as Member-At-Large, which would be another stepping stone to apply for an executive position in the future.

Navneet Dogra – Icahn School of Medicine At Mount Sinai

I strongly believe in ISEV’s role as the global guardian of rigor, standards, and community in the extracellular vesicle field. As the field rapidly expands (mainly into liquid biopsy, RNA biology, and clinical translation), I see a growing need for balanced leadership that integrates innovation with reproducibility and consensus.

I would like to contribute to ensuring that ISEV continues to represent the full potential of its membership, from basic scientists to clinician-scientists, and from early-career investigators to established leaders, while maintaining scientific rigor and inclusivity. My recent publications (Miceli et al. JEV 2024; Dogra et al. JEV 2024) are illustrations of my consistent contribution to the EV field. Vision for the two-year term.

At the end of a two-year term, I envision myself having contributed to strengthening ISEV’s engagement with emerging areas such as EV RNA biology, extracellular particle heterogeneity, isolation, and clinical applications. Furthermore, I would aim to help amplify member voices, foster cross-disciplinary collaboration, and support initiatives that make ISEV resources more accessible and impactful.

For ISEV, I envision a society that is even more clearly recognized as the single cohesive voice in the field, leading not only in guidelines and standards, but also in shaping the scientific narrative, training the next generation, and responsibly guiding clinical translation. I hope to help position ISEV as both a guardian of rigor and a catalyst for innovation in extracellular vesicle research.

Yunxi Chen – University of Southern California

My motivation to apply for a Member-at-Large position arises from my scientific engagement in EV research, my identity as an early-career researcher, and my commitment as a service-oriented community member.

As a recent PhD graduate and an incoming postdoctoral fellow, I represent the perspectives of early-career researchers navigating a rapidly evolving EV field, and I am motivated to contribute these perspectives to ISEV’s decision-making processes and future development. Scientifically, my doctoral work lies at the interface of EVs and bioinspired synthetic and cell-derived vesicle systems—an emerging, crossdisciplinary area reflected by the recognition of “synthetic vesicles” within the MISEV 2023 framework. My doctoral research, as well as my upcoming postdoctoral work, focuses on translating the advantageous features of EVs into synthetic vesicle platforms to address key challenges in yield, standardization, and purity, with the goal of facilitating broader biomedical applications of EV research.

In parallel, as a Mandarin-speaking researcher trained and working in an English-speaking academic environment, I have been contributing to connecting researchers across linguistic and cultural contexts, including through the establishment and coordination of ISEV-related engagement on WeChat. I view this bridge-building role as increasingly important for a global society such as ISEV, particularly in supporting international participation and information exchange.

Through service as a Member-at-Large, I aim to help strengthen ISEV’s capacity to foster dialogue between the EV field and related nanoparticle platforms (such as liposomes, lipid nanoparticles, and biomimetic vesicles), support the advancement of EV research in technological and translational directions, and engage a diverse membership spanning career stages, disciplines, and geographic regions.

Dong Jun Park – Jeonbuk National University

My motivation to apply for the Member-at-Large position is driven by a strong commitment to actively contributing to the future direction of the extracellular vesicle (EV) field through ISEV. Over the course of the two-year term, I expect to serve as an engaged and accessible board member who supports ISEV’s mission by strengthening scientific dialogue, fostering collaboration, and helping connect diverse segments of the EV community.

During my term, I aim to contribute to shaping a balanced vision for EV research that integrates both biological discovery and translational innovation. I expect to actively promote discussions around EVs as emerging drug delivery platforms with industrial potential comparable to, and complementary with, established technologies such as AAV and lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). At the same time, I will advocate for deeper investigation into the biological roles of EVs as key mediators of cancer communication and immune responses, emphasizing the importance of mechanistic clarity alongside engineering advances.

By the end of the two-year term, I expect to have helped strengthen global connections among EV researchers working across academia and industry. One of my specific goals is to initiate or co-organize a focused international consortium in EV research areas of shared interest, enabling sustained collaboration among investigators and accelerating research that can ultimately benefit human health. Through regular communication and coordinated efforts, I anticipate these networks will extend beyond individual meetings and evolve into long-term scientific partnerships.

For ISEV, I envision continued growth as a globally inclusive society that supports researchers at all career stages, encourages responsible translation, and maintains leadership in setting scientific standards. As a Member-at-Large, I expect to actively participate in ISEV governance, engage consistently with the membership, and contribute constructively to board discussions and initiatives. I look forward to participating in all ISEV activities during the term and to working closely with fellow board members and the broader community to advance the field together.

Dong Uk Kim – CHA University

I am a physician–scientist with extensive experience in advanced endoscopy and translational research, specializing in pancreatobiliary diseases. As an endoscopist, I have performed more than 3,000 ERCP and EUS procedures and have been actively involved in the development and clinical evaluation of novel biliary stents and endoscopic devices. These experiences have fostered a sustained interest in the development of innovative technologies that can directly improve outcomes in biliary interventions.

My engagement in extracellular vesicle (EV) research began during my tenure at MD Anderson Cancer Center (2015–2017), where I worked as a member of a pancreatic cancer liquid biopsy research team. Since then, my research focus has evolved toward establishing a clinically applicable liquid biopsy platform aimed at advancing precision medicine strategies for biliary tract cancers. My translational research objective is to identify and validate EV-based biomarkers that can be integrated with emerging therapeutic approaches, including targeted therapies and immunotherapy, in pancreatic and biliary malignancies.

As a clinician who provides direct care to patients with gastrointestinal cancers, I bring a perspective that integrates unmet clinical needs with experimental feasibility. I have actively conducted EV-related basic and translational research while maintaining close involvement in patient care, which positions me to effectively bridge the gap between fundamental EV biology and real-world clinical application. If elected, I would aim to contribute to the ISEV Board by fostering dialogue between basic scientists and clinicians, promoting clinically meaningful EV research, and broadening the translational impact of the EV community.

Eisuke Dohi – National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry

My motivation to apply for a Member-at-Large position stems from a desire to contribute to ISEV as a society that not only advances scientific excellence, but also ensures that standards, knowledge, and innovations are accessible, reproducible, and meaningful across diverse research and clinical contexts.

Over the next two years, I would aim to support initiatives that strengthen reproducibility and pre-analytical standardization, particularly in blood-derived EV research, while helping translate community guidelines into practical use. I am especially interested in contributing to educational efforts that empower early-career researchers and researchers in underrepresented regions, fostering confidence and self-efficacy in applying EV methodologies and standards.

I also see ISEV playing an increasingly important role at the interface between science, regulation, and society. Drawing on my experience in clinical medicine, data science, and community engagement, I hope to help ISEV communicate clearly with external stakeholders and support responsible translation of EV research into clinical and societal applications.

At the end of a two-year term, I hope to be someone who has contributed steadily and collaboratively— helping ISEV strengthen its global educational impact, advance reproducibility, and serve as a trusted bridge between scientific rigor and real-world implementation.

Gowri Priya Chidambaranathan – Aravind Medical Research Foundation

My focus to date has been to establish myself as an adult stem cell biologist. I have been working on small EVs for the past four years. The next step in my career is to be a part of an executive committee in the field of my interest. This will give me more opportunities to interact with pioneers in this field.

Kewei Zhao – Guangdong Engineering Research Center of Chinese herbal vesicles, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine

As the organizer, I have successfully hosted the "Global Conference on Chinese Herbal Medicine Extracellular Vesicles" for five consecutive sessions and have been attending the ISEV annual conferences for many years. Now, I have accumulated rich international qualifications and experience in the EV field and am fully qualified and eager to take on the selected position.

Monica Suet Ying Ng – Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital

I am a physician scientist from Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital in Brisbane, Australia. I currently lead the Translational Kidney Pathobiology Group and Clinical Trials Unit at the Metro North Kidney Health Service. My research focuses on developing EVs into non-invasive tests for kidney disease. I contributed to the consensus statement on "Roadblocks of Urinary EV Biomarkers: Moving Towards the Clinic" published in Journal of Extracellular Vesicles and have reviewed manuscripts for ISEV journals.

As Asia-Pacific co-chair of ISEV's GUSEV Special Interest Group, member of the Urine Task Force and EVTRACK Task Force; I have gained a strong understanding of ISEV teams and a deep appreciation for our open and supportive community. Whilst serving on ISEV Board of Directors, I will advocate for increased opportunities for education (including diversity in topics and speakers) and cross-disciplinary collaboration (via inter-society outreach activities, networking programs, broad consultation for consensus statements).

I am a strong proponent of education and outreach to improve EV research practices and, foster cross disciplinary and international collaborations. To this end, I have contributed to the organization of GUSEV Education Days (2024-2025), GUSEV Satellite Symposiums (2024-2025), GUSEV Kidney Transplant Symposium (2025) and GUSEV-hosted EV Club sessions (2023-2025). These programs have covered a broad range of research topics and organ systems to cater for the diversity in our members. I will bring enthusiasm to education initiatives that are accessible to and inclusive of ISEV members from all 3 chapters (Europe and Africa, Americas, Asia-Pacific). I am also passionate about supporting gender equity and membership diversity across career stages, employment settings (e.g. academia, clinical, industry) and geography; with the goal of facilitating new research collaborations and improving clinical translation of EV technologies.

At the end of the two-year term, I aim to enhance inclusivity in ISEV activities such as educational initiatives, consensus statements and networking activities. I aim to expand the number and format of these activities to cater for the breadth of ISEV members.

Nastasya Nunki – Universitas Airlangga

I am motivated to apply for an officer position within ISEV because I strongly believe in the Society’s mission to advance extracellular vesicle (EV) research through scientific rigor, collaboration, and inclusive global engagement. As an active ISEV member working at the intersection of laboratory medicine, hematology, and translational EV research, I see this role as an opportunity to contribute not only scientifically, but also organizationally and strategically to the Society’s continued growth.

My qualifications align well with the duties outlined in the ISEV bylaws, particularly in supporting Society activities, facilitating communication, and strengthening engagement across the membership. I have demonstrated sustained leadership through my role as Secretary of an academic alumni association, where I coordinate governance-related activities, manage communications, and support collaborative initiatives. Additionally, my experience as an editorial team member for a peer-reviewed journal has strengthened my ability to work within structured review processes, uphold ethical standards, and communicate effectively with diverse scientific stakeholders.

Scientifically, my research focuses on extracellular vesicles as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, with hands-on experience in flow cytometry, immunophenotyping, and translational study design. This background allows me to understand both the technical challenges and the clinical relevance of EV research, particularly for early-career researchers and scientists from underrepresented regions.

My vision for a term as an ISEV officer is to contribute to a Society that is accessible, responsive, and globally connected. I aim to support initiatives that enhance member participation, promote mentorship and education, and improve communication between committees and the broader membership. I am particularly committed to amplifying opportunities for early-career scientists and researchers from developing countries, ensuring that ISEV continues to reflect the diversity and excellence of the global EV community.

Ruiying Wang – Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shanxi Bethune Hospital

I have had the privilege of serving as a visiting scholar at the National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, where I contributed to the CPH project led by Academician Wang Chen, including two articles published in The Lancet. I seek to leverage this experience to enhance the academic quality of ISEV regional conferences and to support the society's global outreach. During my term, I plan to systematically develop targeted initiatives to identify and integrate cutting-edge technologies and methodologies in extracellular vesicle research. I will actively promote joint webinars and collaborative activities with other professional societies to expand ISEV’s international visibility and influence. By the end of the two-year term, I aim to achieve: (1) a more diverse and engaged membership, with substantially increased participation across the Society; and (2) accelerated scientific progress in the extracellular vesicle field, driven by discoveries emerging from ISEV expert working groups and researchers worldwide. By ensuring that the Board remains responsive to the evolving needs of its members, I am confident that ISEV will continue to serve as a central engine advancing extracellular vesicle science globally.

Yiyao Huang – Sun Yat-sen University School of Medicine

I am motivated to apply for another term as Member-at-Large because I have been closely involved in ISEV activities for nearly two years and have gained a better understanding of how the society operates. Serving in this role has been a valuable experience, and I would like to continue contributing to ISEV in a consistent and practical way.

Over the past two years, I have been actively involved in the Meetings and Programs Committee, contributing to meetings and workshop organization, and serving as an abstract judge at ISEV annual meetings. These experiences have allowed me to work closely with different committees and better understand how ISEV supports scientific quality, inclusivity, and early-career engagement. In parallel, as a member of the ISEV Tissue EV Task Force, I contributed to co-organizing a round table discussion at the 2025 ISEV Annual Meeting and to the publication of research recommendations on tissue-derived EVs this year.

Beyond ISEV, I serve as a Secretary and Early-Career Committee member of the Chinese Society for Extracellular Vesicles (CSEV), where I support academic activities and international exchange. Through this role, I have been actively involved in connecting the Chinese and Asia–Pacific EV communities with ISEV, including coordination of joint sessions and information sharing. I see this bridge-building as an important contribution to ISEV’s global mission.

At the end of the next two-year term, I hope to have further strengthened connections between ISEV leadership, committees, and members, particularly early-career researchers, and to have helped ISEV remain an open, collaborative, and truly international society. I am motivated to continue supporting initiatives that enhance communication, broaden participation across regions, and ensure that members feel engaged and represented.

Yu Fujita – The Jikei University School of Medicine

My motivation to serve as an ISEV Member-at-Large is to help ISEV convert the rapid progress in EV science into real-world impact—especially by strengthening translation, regulatory alignment, and cross-sector collaboration. As an Asia–Pacific representative, I am also committed to expanding meaningful regional engagement and ensuring that this growing community is fully integrated into ISEV’s leadership, standards, and programs.

Over the next two years, I will focus on three priorities: (1) advancing practical TRA outputs that support decision-making for EV therapeutics and diagnostics (fit-for-purpose CQAs, potency concepts, and evidence expectations from preclinical to early clinical work); (2) building durable bridges among academia, industry, and regulators through initiatives such as ISEV × Pharma Connect; and (3) increasing Asia–Pacific participation across committees, meetings, and society initiatives. By the end of the term, I hope ISEV will be widely recognized not only as the scientific home of EV research, but also as the trusted global reference for translation—where stakeholders come for harmonized guidance, rigorous standards, and partnerships that accelerate safe and effective EV-based products to patients.

Yuling Wang – Macquarie University

I am applying for the Executive Chair role at ISEV — for either Science & Journals or Translation, Regulation & Advocacy — because I believe my track record in nanobiotechnology-driven EV research, my deep commitment to rigorous standardization, and my leadership in translating research into real-world impact align strongly with ISEV’s mission and the responsibilities of these positions.

With a research program centered on nanotech-enabled liquid-biopsy for cancer detection and treatment monitoring (in collaboration with clinicians, consumers and bioengineers), I have consistently championed methodological rigor, reproducibility, and translational relevance. These experiences have given me a firm grounding in both the scientific/technical challenges and the regulatory, clinical, and translational barriers necessary to bring EV technologies into healthcare.

If elected as Executive Chair, Science & Journals, I would commit to promoting high-quality, reproducible science, strengthening editorial and publishing standards, and ensuring that our flagship journals and special-interest initiatives reflect the evolving frontiers of EV research. My familiarity with emerging technologies and cross-disciplinary work would enable me to help shape special issues, encourage transparent reporting standards, and support the next generation of EV investigators, particularly ECRs.

Alternatively, in the role of Executive Chair, Translation, Regulation & Advocacy, I would leverage my translational-research background to help bridge the gap between basic EV science and clinical/industrial application. I would work to identify regulatory challenges and stakeholder needs, foster engagement between academia, industry and regulators, and help ISEV support evidence-based translation of EV diagnostics or therapeutics — ultimately advancing ISEV’s vision of delivering societal impact.

In either capacity, I envisage ISEV not only as a hub for excellence and standardisation in EV research, but also as a global enabler of safe, well-regulated EV-based innovations. I would bring to the Board a combination of scientific integrity, translational ambition, and inclusive leadership aimed at shaping a sustainable future for EV research worldwide.

Zhigang Li – Sun Yat-sen University

I am motivated to apply for the Member-at-Large position because ISEV has played a formative role in my scientific career and continues to represent the core values of rigor, openness, and collaboration in the extracellular vesicle (EV) field. Early in my career, I was honored to receive an ISEV2019 Young Investigator Award. This recognition was deeply encouraging and reinforced my commitment to pursuing EV research at a critical stage of professional development. The support and visibility provided by ISEV motivated me to continue building my research program in this field.

Now, as an independent principal investigator, I would welcome the opportunity to give back to the ISEV community that helped shape my career. Serving as a Member-at-Large would allow me to support the next generation of EV researchers, particularly early-career scientists who are navigating the transition toward independence. I am especially interested in promoting mentorship, career development opportunities, and inclusive participation across geographic regions and research backgrounds.

If elected, my primary goal over the two-year term would be to strengthen engagement across career stages and research disciplines. I am particularly interested in supporting early- and mid-career investigators by promoting visibility, mentorship opportunities, and inclusive participation in ISEV activities. I also see strong potential to further integrate disease-focused researchers with technology- and methodology-driven communities, helping to translate fundamental EV discoveries into biological insight and clinical relevance.

By the end of the term, I hope to see ISEV continue to thrive as a truly global and supportive scientific society—one that not only leads the field in setting standards and advancing knowledge, but also actively nurtures young investigators. Personally, I aspire to have contributed as a dedicated and approachable Member-at-Large, helping create opportunities for early-career researchers to grow, connect, and succeed within the ISEV community.

Ana Gabriela Henriques – University of Aveiro

My motivation to apply for a Member-at-Large position within the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV) comes from a genuine commitment to the EV community and to scientific service beyond my own research. ISEV has been instrumental in shaping the field of extracellular vesicles, from setting standards to fostering collaboration and dialogue across disciplines. Contributing to this mission would represent both a responsibility and an opportunity for continued personal and professional growth through active service to the society. It would be a real privilege to represent ISEV at the national level and to help strengthen its visibility and engagement within the broader scientific community.

I see the role of Member-at-Large as representative, but also acting as a bridge between the Board and the membership. It is about listening to members, understanding their needs, and helping to translate those perspectives into constructive discussion at the Board level. I am particularly motivated to support initiatives that improve communication within the society, strengthen opportunities for early-career researchers, and encourage interdisciplinary and translational approaches that connect basic EV biology with clinical and societal relevance. My experience in leading research teams, coordinating collaborative projects, and engaging with diverse scientific communities has shown me how important it is for members to feel included, supported, and heard.

At the end of a two-year term, I would hope to have contributed meaningfully to Board discussions and to the development of initiatives that reinforce community building, education, and knowledge exchange within ISEV. I would aim to help promote good scientific practices, methodological rigor, and reproducibility in EV research, while also supporting actions that increase engagement across different career stages and research backgrounds.

More broadly, I see ISEV continuing to evolve as the leading international reference society for extracellular vesicle research, not only through scientific excellence and standardization, but also through a strong sense of community and shared purpose. By the end of the term, I would like members to feel that ISEV is an accessible, responsive, and inclusive society that actively supports its members while advancing the field in a responsible and forward-looking way.

Anja Schneider – DZNE

Dear Members of the ISEV Board of Directors,

I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the position of Executive Chair for Translation, Regulation, and Advocacy within the ISEV Board of Directors. With a longstanding commitment to extracellular vesicle (EV) research and a track record bridging basic science and clinical translation, I am eager to contribute to ISEV’s mission of advancing the field globally.

Throughout my career, I have focused on translating molecular insights into tangible clinical applications. I have led multidisciplinary projects integrating biomarker discovery, including EV-based markers. As a clinician, I have experience in investigator-initiated therapy trials in the field of neurodegeneration, with regulatory-compliant study designs, and am experienced in navigating complex pathways from laboratory findings to early-phase clinical implementation. This experience has provided me with a thorough understanding of translational bottlenecks, regulatory requirements, and the critical importance of clear advocacy to stakeholders in academia, industry, and policy.

In addition, I have actively engaged in initiatives fostering harmonization of standards and reproducibility in biomarker research, e.g as lead of the biomarker program at the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, DZNE. I have collaborated with international consortia to establish standardized protocols, reference materials, and data-sharing frameworks in patient cohorts. My work emphasizes both scientific rigor and practical implementation, ensuring that innovations are aligned with patient needs and regulatory expectations.

As Executive Chair, I would focus on strengthening ISEV’s leadership in translational science, advocating for regulatory clarity, and promoting sustainable strategies for community engagement. I am particularly motivated to facilitate collaborations between academia, industry, and regulatory authorities, which are an promote regulatory acceptance and broader adoption of EV-based diagnostics.

I am honored to submit my candidacy and would be privileged to contribute my expertise, vision, and energy to advancing ISEV’s strategic objectives.

Thank you for your consideration.

Anna Antoniou – University of Vienna

My main motivation for the Member-at-Large position is to contribute to the EV community and positively shape the future trajectory of EV research together with leading experts. EV research has often been faced with scrutiny, partly based on oversimplification of research results despite the complicated nature of EV biology, and the high number of sub-optimally designed experiments in the literature. The various ISEV initiatives on education, standardization, communication and outreach have drastically improved scientific progress as well as the standing of EV research in the global scientific community. As a Member-at-Large applicant, I see myself contributing to this vision, particularly with my field of expertise in Neurobiology. Although much progress has been made, EV research in the nervous system is still at a relatively early stage, with many fundamental questions still unanswered. Education of the next generation of (neuro)scientists and communication with basic, medical and clinical researchers will undoubtedly push the boundaries of 'neuroEV' research. Furthermore, approaching open questions in the field with an open, non-dogmatic and inter-disciplinary viewpoint has the potential to lead to fascinating outcomes.

Antonella Bongiovanni – National Research Council (CNR) of Italy

My motivation to apply for a Member-at-Large position is deeply rooted in my long-standing scientific and personal connection to ISEV, which for me has been — and continues to be — a true professional and lively home. Over more than thirteen years working in the extracellular vesicle field, ISEV has provided the environment where my scientific identity matured, where key collaborations were fostered, and where ideas evolved into impactful scientific and translational initiatives. I began my career studying membrane remodeling through the protein Alix, focusing on its role in skeletal muscle EV biogenesis (doi: 10.1016/j.febslet.2013.03.012; doi: 10.1002/jev2.70164). This foundational work established my enduring commitment to understanding EV biology at a mechanistic level. Over time, my trajectory expanded toward translational science, including the co-founding of the start up EVEBiofactory, aimed at exploiting microalgae-derived EVs for therapeutic and dermacosmetic applications. This evolution reflects my belief that strong basic science, when embedded in a robust community, can responsibly and effectively drive innovation.

ISEV has been central to this journey. Through active participation and co-organization of ISEV meetings and workshops, I have experienced firsthand how ISEV catalyzes collaborations across disciplines (doi: 10.1038/s44222-024-00255-5) and borders. Notably, interactions within the ISEV community directly contributed to the founding of the EVIta society and to the construction of European collaborative networks that successfully secured Horizon 2020 funding through major projects such as VES4US and BOW, giving rise to a central position of the EV field in Europe (doi: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2025.08.008). These initiatives exemplify how ISEV functions not only as a scientific society, but also as an incubator for ideas, partnerships, and large-scale international efforts.

As a Member-at-Large, my vision is to help strengthen this role of ISEV as a connective, forward-looking ecosystem that bridges basic science, technology development, and translation. I am particularly motivated to support initiatives focused on scalable EV production, deep and multidisciplinary characterization (doi: 10.1002/jev2.70030), quality-by-design approaches (doi: 10.1002/jev2.70021), and responsible innovation, while ensuring that ISEV remains inclusive, globally representative, and scientifically rigorous.

At the end of a two-year term, I envision ISEV as an even more influential reference point for the EV field — one that actively shapes scientific standards, empowers emerging and established researchers alike, and continues to seed collaborations capable of transforming ideas into funded projects, societies, and real-world applications. I see myself having contributed strategic vision, practical experience, and a strong sense of community stewardship to advance this mission.

Carlos Jesus – University of Coimbra, Portugal

My motivation to apply for the Member-at-Large position comes from a strong commitment to strengthening the connection between Early Career Researchers (ECRs) and ISEV, and to ensuring that the perspectives and needs of young scientists are effectively represented within the society. Having been actively involved in the Student Network on Extracellular Vesicles (SNEV), including serving as its current President, I see this role as a natural opportunity to serve as a bridge between SNEV and ISEV. With this in mind, I feel in the position to contribute directly to 3 main topics:

1. Promote (and hopefully, to increase even more) the proximity between ECRs and ISEV through targeted activities developed in close collaboration with SNEV and ISEV. I would support and expand initiatives such as the SNEV Interconnect Programme, which fosters to strengthen collaboration between SNEV and global EV societies while fostering a supportive community for ECRs. Additionally, a key aspect will be the implementation of strategies to involve more ECRs in the different working groups of ISEV, in order to foster their career development but also provide the tools needed for the future leaders of the field.

2. Contribute to the identification of additional educational needs to further grow the exceptional repertoire available within ISEV, with a special focus on ECRs and their current needs. Mapping these needs (ranging from technical training to career development) will help the implementation of educational initiatives that better support the next generation of EV researchers.

3. Implementation of activities that strengthen engagement between ECRs and industry stakeholders working in the EV field. Facilitating dialogue and collaboration between academia and industry is essential for career development, technology transfer, and innovation, and ISEV is well positioned to play a leading role in this area.

At the end of a two-year term, I envision an ISEV community where ECRs feel more connected, supported, and actively engaged, with even stronger integration between SNEV and ISEV, enhanced educational opportunities, and new platforms for interaction with industry. I also see myself having contributed meaningfully to these developments, while continuing to grow within the field committed to service within the EV community.

Christian Neri – INSERM

Dear ISEV Members,

I am presenting myself as a candidate for President-Elect. My focus will be on supporting the President and Executive Officers, ensuring our society thrives for all members and builds the future. My motivation is simple: we are a great community, a huge impact of EV research on medicine and health is ahead, and I am committed to serving our community with dedication, vision, and collaboration.

Over the past 5 years, I have been working on promoting EV research as current Chair of the SIG EViNS, Adjunct Board Member, TRA Committee member, and current President of FSEV. I have a long-standing experience in building international cooperation, leading large consortia, and facilitating innovation. Teamwork, structured collaboration, and ethics are key to growth where the goal is anticipation, collective decision, and communication.

As President-Elect, I will prioritize:

Supporting the Executive Team, assisting in brainstorming, planning, and execution.

Strengthening member engagement, expanding opportunities at all career stages, in all countries.

Promoting translational research to enhance societal impact, and fostering discussions with direct stakeholders and public-decision makers.

Upholding scientific integrity to maintain the credibility of both the society and its members.

Reinforcing ISEV’s visibility and capacity to link continents, working with national societies to promote knowledge sovereignty in Asia as well as in Europe-Africa and America.

My vision as President-Elect thus emphasizes international solidarity, budget efficiency, developing data intelligence for strategic prospective, fighting misinformation, and promoting ISEV as a trusted third-party on societal challenges such as education, research funding policies, academic freedom, and public health policies.

As a strategic thinker and proactive supporter, I believe in collective action and alignment policy across continents. Together, we can ensure ISEV remains a dynamic, inclusive, transformative and ethically grounded hub for scientific research and diplomacy, advancing both individual careers and our collective impact.

Sincerely,

Christian Neri

Hafize Seda Vatansever – Manisa Celal Bayar University

I am motivated to apply for this officer position as my scientific expertise in extracellular vesicle research and my leadership experience can actively support ISEV’s mission. If elected, my vision as an ISEV officer is to strengthen engagement from underrepresented regions, particularly Turkey and Cyprus, by increasing membership, fostering regional and international collaborations, and supporting the development of joint scientific projects. I aim to contribute to the organization of high-quality scientific meetings, promote interdisciplinary EV research, and help bridge academic research with translational and industrial applications, including diagnostics and biotechnology. I am committed to upholding the responsibilities outlined in the ISEV bylaws and to working collaboratively with fellow officers and members to advance ISEV’s goals, inclusivity, and scientific excellence. In addition, Prof. Harald Alfred Stenbark is familiar with my scientific and professional work and would be willing to serve as a reference, if required.

Lorena Martin Jaular – Institut Curie

I have been active in the EV field for more than 15 years, during which I have gained extensive experience across multiple aspects of EV research and contributed to numerous publications. Throughout this time, I have deeply valued and supported efforts to advance the field in a rigorous and reproducible manner, actively participating in working groups and publications focused on standardization, as well as contributing to peer review for the ISEV journal and serving as an Associate Editor of Journal of Extracellular Biology since its launch.

My motivation to apply for a Member-at-Large position stems from a strong commitment to moving the field forward, particularly by engaging in initiatives that promote harmonization and best practices. I am especially interested in contributing to Working Groups and Special Interest Groups dedicated to methodologies and the translation and regulation of EV use. These areas are critical for ensuring the robustness and credibility of EV research and for facilitating its clinical and translational impact.

Ultimately, my goal is to help position ISEV, and the EV field, as a model of scientific rigor and translational success.

Seppo Vainio – Kvantum Institution

The Impact of the Invisible Bionano World on Science and Evolution

Science seeks to generate significant new knowledge and technology. History shows that all societal innovations are directly or indirectly linked to major technological breakthroughs, such as the harnessing of light and nuclear power or the development of medical therapies. From time to time, we reach a level of understanding that fundamentally reshapes our worldview and its underlying paradigms. Examples include the heliocentric model, the theory of relativity, and the mechanism of evolution. We are now living through a period of paradigm transition in many respects. Automated biotechnological research is producing vast amounts of fragmented biomolecular data from living systems, while digital and mobile technologies, artificial intelligence, and machine learning are simultaneously shaping our post-pandemic era.

My research vision aims to bring together researchers in the field of extracellular vesicles (EVs) who are working on, or are interested in, the ongoing paradigm shift in the life sciences. All living organisms possess a newly recognized communication system based on the complex information transfer mediated by extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes. These vesicles are invisible to the naked eye and range in size from approximately 5 to 1000 nanometers. Their function resembles that of the brain, which for a long time was thought to rely primarily on synaptic vesicles. It is now understood that all neural cells utilize EV-based systems for molecular information exchange.

One of the most critical properties of EVs is their ability to transport molecular information across biological barriers, such as the blood–brain barrier. EVs can therefore be regarded as fundamental biological programming units that deliver functional cargo to recipient cells. This capability opens new avenues for understanding disease mechanisms, developing novel diagnostic approaches, and advancing therapeutic strategies. Knowledge generated through EV research disseminates broadly across scientific disciplines and beyond.

My goal is to expand EV research to serve as a unifying framework that connects diverse scientific fields. In this context, EVs represent a central element of exposomics, forming a bridge between the internal and external worlds. This perspective also brings classical theories—such as Charles Darwin’s pangenesis theory, the miasma concept, the Gaia hypothesis, and even Carl Jung’s psychoid theory—into the realm of concrete, experimentally grounded Western science.

EV research reaches into the core of our biology, shaping sociality, culture, cognition, and their development from the earliest stages of embryogenesis onward. Through advances in technology, EV research increasingly reveals the deep interconnections between human activity and the natural environment—air, soil, and ecosystems. As a life science, this field reawakens classical, atavistic, and nature-aligned relationships with the world, extending even to our understanding of climate change.

In this way, the shared ISEV community provides a platform for building participatory science and a biodigital understanding that helps us better comprehend our place within ecosystems—and how we might act harmoniously as an integral part of nature.

Thabiso Motaung – University of Pretoria

I’m applying for the Member-at-Large position because ISEV has played an important role in shaping the EV field, and I care about where it goes next. I value it as a trusted scientific home that takes rigor seriously while remaining open, collaborative, and global. Through my work as a researcher, editor, and someone involved in building scientific communities, I’ve seen how much strong societies matter. They help set standards, support early-career scientists, and make it possible for researchers from underrepresented regions to contribute in ways that are visible and valued.

As a Member-at-Large, I’d like to support efforts that strengthen scientific quality and transparency across ISEV, while also lowering barriers to participation. One priority for me is building better links between established EV groups and communities that are growing quickly but still under-resourced, particularly in Africa and other parts of the Global South. I’m especially interested in practical work around capacity building, open science, and improving connections between basic, translational, and clinical researchers so the field develops in a more integrated way.

At the end of a two-year term, I would like to see ISEV recognized not only for scientific leadership, but also for the way it supports inclusive leadership, meaningful opportunities for members, and strong regional networks. Personally, I hope to have helped translate these values into concrete actions that broaden participation, strengthen trust within the community, and position ISEV to continue growing as a truly global society.