Board of Advisors

Dave Wilkens (BALTIMORE, MD) -- The Institute of Human Virology welcomes aboard new Chief Operating Officer Dave Wilkins. A former Navy hydrofoil pilot with an MBA from the Wharton School, Wilkins most recently was Senior Director of Operations at the Institute for Systems Biology (ISB) in Seattle. At ISB, a world-renowned research institute led by Dr. Leroy Hood, who invented the automated sequencing machine that led to the Human Genome Project, Wilkins held responsibility for a $22 million annual financial plan, including Direct Research and Discretionary Funding.

He also led executive management through the setting of scientific strategy dealing with proteomics, DNA arrays, genotyping and sequencing and oversaw Information Technology, Research Support and Technology Transfer.

At Deloitte and Touche Consulting Group, Wilkins managed $20 million of IT service lines and led 160 people through ERP implementations in biotechnology and high tech industries.

"Dave brings to the Institute a background of excellent leadership and training experience as well as impressive project management results," says Dr. Robert Gallo, founder and director of the IHV.

In addition to day-to-day administration, Wilkins' immediate priorities at the IHV will include the implementation of fundraising and development strategies for the Institute, as well as identifying unique partnership opportunities to further scientific research, clinical care and global prevention initiatives.

The Institute opened in 1996 and was the first center of virology in the world to combine the disciplines of basic science, epidemiological research and actual patient care. In its first seven years of operation, the IHV has been awarded 21 patents, its patient base has increased from 250 to more than 4,000 and the Institute has had a pioneering presence in global prevention efforts in Africa and the Caribbean.

"Dave's arrival comes at an exciting time in the history of the Institute," says Gallo. "The IHV is at a new juncture and Dave's strengths coincide with the critical needs of the Institute and its immediate and long-term direction. We are proud to have him join the team."

A triathlete who played semi-pro football and was captain of the 1988 Navy Soccer Champions, Wilkins' competitive spirit shines through as he welcomes new challenges.

"I think the IHV is uniquely situated to address one of the biggest human problems that exist today," he said. "And the ability to effectively collaborate with other similarly-focused institutes is like never before.

"I like to see the big picture of how things fit together," he observes, "and I'm very driven towards achieving the mission of the Institute within that big picture. I recognize that there are many leadership styles on a team and I look forward to recognizing, utilizing and developing the great talent of the IHV team."

Wilkins' arrival to the Institute is a coming home of sorts. A Maryland native, Dave grew up and has family in Annapolis. He and his wife, Laura, have three children, Zach, 9; Emma, 5; and Liam. 1.