In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I speak with Jessicca Rege, CEO of SUS Clinical — a scientist, mom, and startup leader bringing innovation to the world of cancer drug development with genetically modified OncoPIGs.
Jess shares her unconventional path from big pharma to biotech, how she’s navigating leadership as a woman in science, and why authenticity and curiosity are her most powerful tools.
Chapters with Timecodes:
00:00 — Intro: Meet Jess Rege
How a career in cancer research and a leap of faith led Jess to biotech leadership.
02:45 — From Big Pharma to Startup Life
Lessons Jess brought with her — and what she had to unlearn.
07:10 — OncoPIGs & Preclinical Innovation
Why genetically modified pigs are transforming cancer trials (and her son’s hilarious nickname for her).
11:50 — Balancing Business & Biology
The challenges of leading with both scientific integrity and business strategy.
16:30 — Leadership as a Mom and CEO
How Jess blends vulnerability, resilience, and honesty — at home and at work.
21:00 — Advice to Women in Science & Leadership
Jess’s call to “be deliberate, be focused, and always find your cheerleaders.”
24:45 — What’s Next for SUS Clinical
Looking ahead at growth, opportunity, and what keeps Jess curious.
