The Society of Laboratory Automation and Screening (SLAS) has appointed Madeline M. Farley, PhD, as its new Scientific Director, effective January 19, 2025. Farley brings extensive experience to the role, having previously served as Chief Scientific Officer for the Biochemistry & Bioanalytical Division at Genesis Drug Discovery & Development (GD3) in Township, New Jersey. In addition, she was the Managing Director for PharmOptima, a subsidiary of GD3.
In her previous position, Farley led teams across three laboratory sites in the United States. She was instrumental in establishing the Ocular Center of Excellence and managed both regulated and exploratory bioanalysis initiatives. Her appointment is expected to enhance SLAS’s mission of advancing scientific discovery through collaboration and innovation.
“I’m excited to join SLAS and work with a community committed to advancing scientific discovery through collaboration, innovation, and rigor,” said Farley. She emphasized her commitment to supporting professional development by providing robust training and resources that empower scientists across various disciplines and career stages.
As the new Scientific Director, Farley will offer strategic leadership for SLAS’s scientific programs, furthering the organization’s mission while fostering innovation and supporting its global community. Her responsibilities will include overseeing content for SLAS educational conferences, webinars, and other programming, as well as supporting the two peer-reviewed journals, SLAS Discovery and SLAS Technology.
Emily Yamasaki, PhD, who has served as SLAS Interim Scientific Director since April 2025, will transition to the role of Assistant Scientific Director. This change reflects SLAS’s commitment to ensuring leadership continuity while enhancing its scientific agenda.
Farley obtained her PhD in Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, Texas. She has also completed postdoctoral fellowships in pathology at McGovern Medical School and in neurosurgery at Baylor College of Medicine. Her industry career began as a Senior Research Scientist in Biochemistry at PharmOptima, where she mentored junior scientists and developed protocols for animal use.
With over fifteen years of experience in academic research and preclinical development, Farley has built a notable record in publishing and conference participation. She has also contributed to professional service as president and vice president of the Baylor College of Medicine Postdoctoral Association.
According to Vicki Loise, CEO of SLAS, “Madeline is an outstanding addition to our team, and her expertise will help us deliver even greater value to our members, partners, and the SLAS life sciences community.” Her extensive background in both research and leadership positions is expected to significantly benefit SLAS’s initiatives moving forward.
SLAS serves as an international professional society that includes academic, industry, and government life sciences researchers, along with providers of laboratory automation technology. The organization aims to advance life sciences discovery and technology through education, knowledge exchange, and the building of a global community.
