SANTA FE, NM, February 04, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Marquis Who's Who, the world's premier publisher of biographical profiles, is proud to honor Sara J. McKenzie, PhD, with inclusion in Who's Who in the World. An accomplished listee, Dr. McKenzie celebrates many years' experience in her professional network and has been noted for achievements, leadership qualities, and the credentials and successes she has accrued in her field. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Dr. McKenzie's professional journey is distinguished by a seamless integration of scientific rigor and creative exploration, spanning four decades across biotechnology and the arts. Since 2023, she has served as the principal of Sara McKenzie Art, where she channels her extensive scientific experience into her artistic practice. Her work in abstract painting draws on the same curiosity and analytical thinking that defined her scientific career, emphasizing process, experimentation and responsiveness to outcomes. Since her first public exhibit in 2023, Dr. McKenzie's art has been showcased throughout Europe and the U.S.

Before pivoting into the art scene, Dr. McKenzie was an independent consultant in biopharmaceutical development from 2010 to 2022, providing strategic guidance to organizations navigating complex drug development processes. During this period, she was also the principal at PharmaDirections, where she contributed her expertise to a range of pharmaceutical projects. Between 2011 and 2012, Dr. McKenzie served as the vice president of program management at Proteostasis Therapeutics Inc., overseeing critical initiatives in clinical research and development.

As a leader in the industry, Dr. McKenzie held various other leading positions. From 2008 to 2010, she served as vice president of development operations at NormOxys, where she was responsible for planning and executing development activities for novel therapeutics across various clinical trial stages. Dr. McKenzie also excelled as the executive program director at Synta Pharmaceuticals between 2006 and 2008.

Between 2004 and 2006, Dr. McKenzie was vice president of project management at Invivodata, where she spearheaded the development of electronic diaries for clinical trial participants. This groundbreaking innovation improved real-time data collection for studies on conditions such as urinary incontinence and pain. The advancement led to Dr. McKenzie's nomination for the BioIP World Best Practices Award in 2003.

From 1999 to 2004, Dr. McKenzie served as the executive program director at Sepracor Pharmaceuticals Inc. Earlier in her career, she gained expertise as a program director at Genzyme Corporation, contributing to significant advancements in biotechnology from 1996 to 1999.

Dr. McKenzie's academic background has been instrumental in shaping her multifaceted career. She completed a bachelor's degree in chemistry and biology, with honors, from Iowa State University of Science and Technology in Ames in 1979, followed by a Doctor of Philosophy in biochemistry and immunology from the University of Kansas in 1984, a Master of Business Administration in general management from Simmons College (now Simmons University) in Boston in 1993 and an associate degree in graphic design studies from Sessions College in Tempe in 2013.

Dr. McKenzie's early interest in science was sparked by an inspiring high school chemistry teacher who transformed her initial indifference into enthusiasm for the subject. Excelling academically, she pursued advanced coursework that confirmed her decision to study chemistry at the collegiate level. Although she briefly considered a medical career, Dr. McKenzie realized her passion lay more with understanding diseases than treating patients. This realization led her toward graduate studies just as genetic engineering began revolutionizing biotechnology.

As an artist, Dr. McKenzie is an active member of the New Mexico State Committee for Women in the Arts Inc. (organized under the National Museum of Women in the Arts) and the Rio Grande Art Association. In addition to her professional affiliations, she is deeply engaged with civic organizations, including the Santa Fe Animal Shelter, Girls Inc. of Santa Fe, Communities in Schools of New Mexico, and the National Audubon Society. Dr. McKenzie's involvement reflects a commitment to animal welfare and to advocacy for childhood education and community enrichment.

Throughout her career, Dr. McKenzie has been recognized for significant contributions to drug development and clinical trial methodologies. Her leadership was particularly evident during her time at Invivodata, where she played a central role in developing electronic diaries that have since become standard tools for real-time data collection across numerous clinical studies.

Dr. McKenzie's achievements have been recognized through several prestigious awards, including the Star of Distinction Award from Sepracor Pharmaceuticals Inc. in 2003 and the Supernova Award for Exceptional Employees from Synta Pharmaceuticals in 2007. While in college, she earned the Pat Miller Leadership Award from Simmons Graduate School of Management at Simmons College in 1993.

Looking ahead, Dr. McKenzie remains committed to exploring evolving concepts within herself and the broader world around her. Drawing inspiration from both scientific discovery and artistic creation, she strives to ensure that neither her art nor her approach becomes static or formulaic, continuing instead on a unique path defined by curiosity and openness to new possibilities.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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