Philip A. Rea

Dr. Philip A. Rea is a Professor of Biology and Rebecka and Arie Belldegrun Distinguished Director of the Life Sciences & Management Program at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Arts and Sciences. With over 100 publications and two co-authored books, his work spans fundamental biochemical research and science communication, focusing on life sciences implementation challenges.

• Education: D.Sc. (2020) and D.Phil. in Plant Biochemistry (University of Oxford), B.Sc. First Class Honors in Biological Sciences (University of Sussex)

Dr. Rea's research explores transport phenomena and cellular detoxification, including vacuolar proton pumps and ABC transporters in plants, yeast, and nematodes. His work has significant applications in phytoremediation and combating parasitic diseases.

His recent publications and book Managing Discovery in the Life Sciences (2018) analyze the transition from laboratory discovery to market success through case studies like statins, ivermectin, and metformin. These works highlight serendipity in biomedical innovation and investor-driven discovery management.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Jesse H. Neal Award (2025) for technical/scientific content
  • AAAS Fellow (2013) for membrane transport research
  • National Academies Cozzarelli Prize (2010) for original research
  • Multiple teaching honors including Lindback Foundation Award (2014) and Ira H. Abrams Award (2009)
  • Society for Experimental Biology President's Medal (1990)
• Teaching:
  • Proseminar in Management and the Life Sciences (LSMP 1210)
  • Biochemistry (BIOL 2810)
  • Focus on problem-solving with incomplete datasets