Natalia Rivera-Torres, Ph.D., is the Associate Director of Pre-Clinical Development at the ChristianaCare Gene Editing Institute. Her research has significantly advanced the understanding of gene repair mechanisms in human cells and how these processes vary across different patient samples. Dr. Rivera-Torres is renowned for her work in elucidating the mechanisms of homology-directed repair in human cells, particularly through a process known as Single-Strand Template Repair (SSTR), also referred to as ExACT, which stands for EXcision And Corrective Therapy.
With extensive hands-on experience in various gene-editing systems, Dr. Rivera-Torres has authored over 15 peer-reviewed publications on targeted gene editing, covering topics from underlying mechanisms to therapeutic applications. She has been working with CRISPR/Cas systems for over a decade, with her current research focused on developing CRISPR-based gene editing strategies for solid tumors, initially targeting squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
In her current role, she oversees the design, execution, and strategic direction of scientific research necessary to advance drug candidates aimed at treating solid tumors using CRISPR-directed gene editing. These candidates are currently in the process of being developed for Investigational New Drug status. Additionally, Dr. Rivera-Torres serves as the liaison between GEI and its biotech spin-out company, CorriXR Therapeutics, and advises the clinical trial development group.
She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras campus, a Master of Science in Biology from Delaware State University, and a Ph.D. in Medical and Molecular Sciences from the University of Delaware. Furthermore, she holds faculty appointments at both the University of Delaware and the Mayo Clinic.
