Melanie Schaefer

Melanie Schaefer is an experienced professional in medical affairs, currently serving as the Executive Director of Medical Affairs Operations at Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. since March 2022. Prior roles include Director of Scientific Communications at Alexion Pharmaceuticals, where responsibilities encompassed leading global communications strategy and medical education, and Director of Medical Affairs at Portola Pharmaceuticals, overseeing medical content development during the company's acquisition by Alexion. Previously, at Gilead Sciences, Schaefer held various director-level positions focused on medical information and respiratory therapeutic areas, developing strategic plans and training programs. Earlier experience includes managerial roles at Cord Blood Registry and the Northern California Institute for Research and Education, along with academic roles at the University of California, Berkeley. Melanie holds an MS in Nutrition and a Certificate in Clinical Research Conduct and Management from the University of California, Berkeley, and a BS in Nutrition from the University of Minnesota.