Meet Lorna


Dr. Neilson is an accomplished, visionary executive and CTA certified leadership coach, with a wealth of experience driving innovation and growth in the biotechnology and life sciences industries. Drawing on her experience and her own corporate journey, Lorna founded InGENEuity Life Science Group to provide consulting, advising, and coaching services to nurture the business growth and leadership excellence of life science and biotech companies and professionals.

Prior to recommencing InGENEuity in 2023, Lorna served as Chief Business Officer at Ansa Biotechnologies where she was responsible for defining the direction for commercialization of the technology and advancing the company’s business strategy. In this role, she was instrumental in developing and driving product strategy, launching the company brand from stealth mode, and initiating a technology Early Access Program. Her previous executive positions include Vice President, Corporate Development at Takara Bio USA where for a decade she spearheaded the company’s growth strategy by orchestrating licenses, mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, and various other initiatives. Additionally, she led the commercial strategy for Takara Bio’s global reproductive health testing division, achieving milestones such as launching innovative diagnostic products, establishing collaborations, and steering profitable growth. Lorna's career prior to joining Takara Bio includes an array of leadership roles, including heading marketing, product management, and custom services for Sequenom's genetic analysis division, and various roles of increasing responsibility at Life Technologies (now Thermo Fisher Scientific) which spanned business unit P&L management, product management, sales and marketing, operations, and corporate development. Her diverse background extends to scientific research and product development roles at several startup companies, underlining her versatile expertise.

Lorna earned a B.A. in biology from California State University, Northridge, a Ph.D. in molecular biology from the University of Southern California, and did her postdoctoral work in molecular genetics at the University of California, San Diego. She received her coaching certification from Coach Training Alliance.

Connect with Lorna on LinkedIn!

Why I Coach


As a seasoned C-suite executive, leader, scientist, and mentor with an extensive background in the biotech and life sciences industries, I embarked on a coaching journey born out of a passion for empowering leaders, especially women scientists. Witnessing the prevalent challenges and career dissatisfaction faced by female professionals, I found a calling to make a meaningful difference.

Why choose my coaching practice?

  • Real-World Experience: Drawing on my years as an executive and leader, I offer practical insights and strategies tailored to the unique challenges faced by leaders in the biotech and life sciences sectors.

  • Passion-Driven: What began as a side passion has evolved into a dedicated coaching practice, fueled by a genuine desire to help women scientists and leaders discover unparalleled fulfillment and joy in their professional journeys.

A Transformative Approach:

My coaching philosophy centers around creating a safe, non-judgmental space where women can authentically explore their current realities and envision a more fulfilling future. As a deep listener and empathetic guide, I facilitate an environment where growth and change become not just conceivable but achievable.

How I Can Help You:

  • Envisioning Possibilities: Through thought-provoking questions and reflections, I guide you in envisioning the growth and change you desire in your professional life.

  • Breaking Barriers: Leveraging evidence-based modalities and my biotech executive background, I assist you in identifying and overcoming barriers, paving the way for greater professional and personal satisfaction and success.

A Vision for Collective Transformation:

I firmly believe that transforming as individuals can, in turn, transform entire companies and cultures. By creating supportive spaces as leaders, we contribute to making our life's work more pleasurable and fulfilling for ourselves, our peers, our families, and even future generations.

Let’s Work Together!

Strategy & Business Development

Experienced support, guidance, and advice for biotech and life sciences organizations seeking to enhance their overall performance, competitiveness, and profitability.

Marketing & Branding

Backed by a wealth of experience, we deliver precise go-to-market strategies and branding solutions tailored to your unique identity, goals, and market dynamics.

Professional Growth & Leadership

1:1 coaching sessions tailored to your unique leadership style and objectives, fostering personalized growth and increased fulfillment.