Dr. Elizabeth Leffel, MD, MPH

Dr. Elizabeth Leffel is a recognized leader in the field of aerobiology and inhalation infectious disease. She has 20 years of experience in animal model research and drug development programs in the fields of biodefense, emerging infectious and autoimmune diseases. Throughout her career she has performed independent research, prepared strategic plans for vaccine/drug development programs, managed resources and personnel, and collaborated with private industry and governmental agencies. She has developed and characterized animal models to be utilized in the development and licensure of medical countermeasures against biological, chemical and radiological threats. Dr. Leffel has extensive regulatory science experience, particularly in utilization of the FDA “Animal Rule”. Dr. Leffel has supported NIH/NIAID, DoD and BARDA contracts/grants in the areas of preclinical/nonclinical, manufacturing, and regulatory, to include presentation at FDA Advisory Committee meetings with the ultimate goal of FDA marketing approval. She has been honored to receive many awards throughout her career, including the Commander’s Award for Civilian Service and the Department of the Army’s STEM Role Model for women in science. She is a Governor appointee to the Virginia Secure Commonwealth Panel and has recently been invited to the National Biodefense Science Board within the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response at the U.S Department of Health and Human Services.