Women in STEM

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Chitra Manohar
, Diagnostics Leader for Precision Medicine

 Nitya Furtado, Scientist II at Roche Sequencing Solutions

Tuesday, February 9, 2021
5:00 – 6:30 pm

We celebrate February STEM Month by welcoming two local women scientists who also happen to be mother and daughter.  

Dr. Chitra Manohar is at the height of her biologic science career, and Nitya Furtado, her daughter and colleague is just starting out.  This dynamo team of scientists will share and compare their journeys in science, including challenges and opportunities they experienced as they came to biologic science careers. They will also share with us what they hope for Women in Science going forward.

Speaker Bios

Chitra Manohar grew up near Mumbai, India, completing her Ph.D in Molecular Biology at the Indian Institute of Science. She completed her post doctorate work at Northwestern University, Chicago in the areas of Virology, and Cancer Research. Currently, Dr. Manohar works as Director, Infectious Diseases Research at Roche Molecular Diagnostics, in Pleasanton, CA. Her work focuses on creating innovative diagnostic solutions to improve patient healthcare.  With >15 years of health industry work at major biotech companies in the Bay Area, Chitra lives in San Ramon with her husband, daughter, and son. She enjoys a healthy work-life balance and shares her passion to travel and cook with her family and friends.

Nitya Furtado grew up in the Bay Area, and completed her B.S. in Biological Sciences at California State University, East Bay. Her interests in science and diagnostics led to several internships at two major biotechnology companies, which inspired her to pursue a career in the industry upon graduation. Currently, she works at Roche Sequencing Solutions in Pleasanton, CA as a Scientist II. Nitya is excited to work with a team of scientists creating innovative tools that enable incredible breakthroughs in cancer research. When not working, Nitya can be found with her black lab Ollie exploring Bay Area lakes and beaches.

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