Altucell’s Scientific Advisory Board is composed of world-renowned experts across the disciplines of cell engineering, microencapsulation, genomics, biomedical engineering, biologics, and clinical research. Their collective knowledge and leadership help guide Altucell’s scientific vision, shape clinical development strategies, and accelerate innovation in cell-based therapies for Type 1 Diabetes and beyond.
Chaired by Dr. Riccardo Calafiore, a global authority in microencapsulation technology, the Board plays a critical role in shaping Altucell’s R&D efforts with a focus on translational science and clinical application.
Chair, Scientific Advisory Board
Chief Science Officer, Altucell
Professor of Medicine, Director of the Laboratory for Endocrine Cell Transplant and Bio-Hybrid Organs, University of Perugia, Italy
Dr. Calafiore is a world leader in the development of microencapsulation technologies for the treatment of Type 1 Diabetes. He has pioneered innovative techniques involving the transplantation of microencapsulated Sertoli cells, addressing one of the greatest challenges in islet transplantation—the scarcity of human donor tissue. He brings decades of academic leadership, research excellence, and clinical innovation to Altucell’s scientific programs.
Georgia Research Alliance Eminent Scholar in Genomic Medicine
Founding Director, Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Augusta University
Dr. She is an internationally recognized leader in genomics and systems biology, serving as Principal Investigator of the globally impactful T.E.D.D.Y. (The Environmental Determinants of Diabetes in the Young) study for Georgia and Florida. With over 260 peer-reviewed publications and more than $100 million in secured research funding, Dr. She has mentored over 70 early-career scientists and founded six biotech companies, including Jinfiniti Diagnostics. His deep expertise in precision medicine and translational genomics significantly enhances Altucell’s strategic capabilities.
Professor, Wake Forest School of Medicine
School of Biomedical Engineering & Sciences | Institute for Regenerative Medicine
Dr. Opara is a distinguished biomedical engineer and pioneer in regenerative medicine with a focus on diabetes-related therapies. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of London and completed postdoctoral training at the Mayo Clinic. He has held senior research roles at the University of Chicago and Duke University and is the inventor or co-inventor of 15 U.S. patents. His work in cell encapsulation and tissue engineering brings vital innovation to Altucell’s regenerative medicine platform.
Senior Medical Director of R&D, Altucell
Dr. DiGiovanna is a Certified Physician Investigator with extensive experience in clinical research and medical leadership. He has served as Principal Investigator in over 350 clinical trials and held leadership roles including Chairman of Family Practice Departments and Board Member of the New York State Osteopathic Medical Society. As author of An Osteopathic Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment, Dr. DiGiovanna combines deep clinical insight with operational expertise, supporting Altucell’s translational and clinical trial programs.