Debra Schaumberg

An internationally recognized expert in medical affairs, epidemiology, and ophthalmology, Debra brings more than 25 years’ experience designing and leading research investigations spanning the spectrum of translational research, biomarkers, RCT, pragmatic trials, decentralized trials, and observational research through all aspects of real-world evidence (RWE) generation and integration. Debra works externally with clients, industry, and academics, and internally across the broader PPD organization, to advance scientific service offerings as well as to conceptualize and contribute to the commercialization of innovative RWE multi-method client solutions across the medical product lifecycle. Working with the Evidera research team and subject matter experts throughout the PPD enterprise, Debra is accountable for showcasing RWE methodological and scientific expertise and offerings to external audiences through scientific and commercial efforts and activities, as well as providing global product development therapeutic area expertise within PPD’s ophthalmology pillar.

Prior to joining Evidera, Debra served for nearly 20 years on the faculty at Harvard Medical School and the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, where she was responsible for the leadership of a large innovative research program in eye disease epidemiology supported by investigator-initiated grants from NIH, industry, and private foundations. Subsequently, Debra was Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Utah School of Medicine, where she held a senior leadership role in a large-scale multidisciplinary research effort focused on disentangling the biological pathways leading to macular degeneration and development of novel therapeutic targets.

Most recently, Debra served first as Global Medical Director for Ophthalmics, leading the launch strategy for Xiidra and Shire’s ophthalmic medical affairs organization, and then as Head of Medical Evidence at Shire, developing and leading the evidence strategy for the medical affairs organization across all therapeutic areas. Debra has diverse experience with biotherapeutic start-ups, venture capital teams, and biopharma, and has worked in clinical development, medical affairs, and life-cycle management roles. She has authored hundreds of scientific publications, lectures, and scientific presentations.

Debra received her ScD from the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, an MPH from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, research fellowship at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and an OD summa cum laude from the Illinois College of Optometry. She is the recipient of numerous awards, is an elected Fellow of both the American Academy of Optometry and the American College of Epidemiology and is Adjunct Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Utah School of Medicine.