“Nothing is more urgent to Cure Sanfilippo Foundation than continuing to accelerate research and therapies so treatments become realities for individuals of all ages and across the different forms of Sanfilippo syndrome,” said Foundation President & Co-Founder Glenn O’Neill.
To meet the moment, Cure Sanfilippo Foundation is expanding its science-focused staff to further grow its ability to drive, evaluate, and collaborate on the multiple therapeutic avenues in progress and emerging for Sanfilippo Syndrome.
The Foundation has hired Mohammed Harris, PhD, MBA, MPH, MPA, as Research Programs Officer, Rare Disease Grants & Scientific Communications, to directly impact the advancement of critical research programs and communications, helping shape the rare disease treatment landscape, education and advocacy. Mohammed will oversee the Foundation’s extensive portfolio of multi-year funded research programs, lead the Foundation’s grant proposal process, and help digest and communicate scientific information to families and supporters.
“This role sits at the intersection of scientific diligence, program execution, communications, and community impact, which aligns with my professional experience and I believe I can contribute meaningfully,” said Mohammed Harris, Foundation Research Programs Officer, Rare Disease Grants & Scientific Communications.
Mohammed received a Master of Science from both The Ohio State University and Johns Hopkins University, Master of Public Health (MPH) from Boston University, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Genetics from Clemson University, Master of Public Affairs (MPA) from University of Missouri, Master of Business Administration (MBA) from University of Illinois, and Master of Biomedical Science (MBS) from Rutgers University.
His professional work has included diagnostics development, biomarker strategy, clinical and observational research design, rare disease program leadership, and evidence-generation initiatives spanning registries, natural history studies, RWE/RWD/HEOR, and translational platforms. Additionally, he has substantial experience in grant and project oversight, development of rare disease patient registries and related research programs, scientific communications and stakeholder translation.
“Mohammed’s career has spanned rare disease, translational science, diagnostics, patient advocacy, and nonprofit research enablement,” said Foundation Chief Science Officer Cara O’Neill, MD. “He brings an impressive combination of scientific depth with real-world execution.”
Mohammed lives in New Jersey with his wife and four young daughters, and is a passionate fan of basketball.
Mohammed joins the Foundation’s dedicated professional team that is committed to accelerating progress for patients and families affected by Sanfilippo Syndrome. Together, the Foundation’s partner families, professional team, Board of Directors, scientific and clinician advisors, industry partners, and supporters are accelerating research, expanding resources for families, and moving hope for a cure closer to reality.