The Jackson Laboratory Executive and Leadership Team

Lon Cardon, the President & Chief Executive Officer at The Jackson Laboratory, directs the overarching strategic vision for this nonprofit biomedical research institution. Cardon architects long-term initiatives focused on genetics and genomics to accelerate the understanding and treatment of human disease. By aligning scientific priorities with global research needs, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures the organization maintains a leadership position in developing mouse models and stem cell systems. Lon Cardon fosters collaboration across international scientific communities, driving advancements in cancer, aging, and neurological research. This executive role involves managing complex institutional resources to support data-driven tools used by scientists worldwide. Through rigorous oversight of research operations, the President & Chief Executive Officer secures the financial and operational health necessary for sustained innovation. Cardon promotes a culture of excellence, ensuring the institution remains at the forefront of biomedical discovery while addressing the most pressing challenges in modern medicine.

Iry Witham, the Chief Information Officer at The Jackson Laboratory, manages the digital infrastructure and data-driven tools essential for large-scale genomics research. Witham architects secure, scalable computing environments that support scientists worldwide in analyzing complex biological datasets. By integrating advanced bioinformatics platforms, the Chief Information Officer enables seamless access to critical mouse model data and stem cell research findings. Iry Witham drives the digital transformation of laboratory operations, ensuring high-performance computing resources meet the rigorous demands of modern biomedical inquiry. This leadership role involves coordinating with research teams to optimize data storage, security, and accessibility across global operations. Through the implementation of robust information systems, the Chief Information Officer supports the institution's mission to decode human disease. Witham maintains the technological backbone required for high-impact scientific discovery, ensuring that data integrity and computational efficiency remain central to the research mission of the organization.

Emily Schorer, the Senior VP, Chief of Staff & Chief People Officer at The Jackson Laboratory, directs organizational development and human capital strategies. Schorer architects talent acquisition and retention programs designed to attract world-class researchers and scientific staff. By aligning workforce capabilities with the institution's mission in genetics and genomics, the Senior VP, Chief of Staff & Chief People Officer ensures operational excellence across all departments. Emily Schorer manages internal communications and executive alignment, facilitating efficient decision-making processes that support the broader research agenda. This leadership role involves cultivating an inclusive environment that fosters innovation in cancer and neurological disease studies. Through the implementation of comprehensive professional development initiatives, the Senior VP, Chief of Staff & Chief People Officer strengthens the institutional culture. Schorer drives organizational health, ensuring that the human resources strategy directly supports the scientific goals and long-term impact of the laboratory on global health outcomes.

Jens Rueter, the Chief Medical Officer at The Jackson Laboratory, bridges the gap between fundamental genomics research and clinical application. Rueter architects strategies to translate laboratory findings into actionable insights for treating complex human diseases. By overseeing clinical collaborations and medical initiatives, the Chief Medical Officer ensures that research into mouse models and stem cell systems informs real-world therapeutic approaches. Jens Rueter drives the integration of genomic data into clinical practice, facilitating partnerships that advance precision medicine. This leadership role involves advising on the medical implications of ongoing research projects, particularly regarding cancer and aging. Through active engagement with the medical community, the Chief Medical Officer expands the reach of the institution's scientific discoveries. Rueter ensures that clinical relevance remains a priority, guiding the translation of complex genetic data into improved patient outcomes. The Chief Medical Officer maintains a focus on clinical rigor, supporting the institution's commitment to transforming biomedical research into effective medical solutions.

Robert Braun, the Vice President, Research at The Jackson Laboratory, directs the scientific agenda and experimental programs focused on genetics and genomics. Braun architects research priorities that drive the development of innovative mouse models and stem cell systems for studying complex diseases. By overseeing diverse research teams, the Vice President, Research ensures high-quality output in cancer, aging, and neurological disorder studies. Robert Braun manages the allocation of scientific resources, fostering an environment where groundbreaking discoveries flourish. This leadership role involves coordinating with external collaborators and funding bodies to sustain the institution's research pipeline. Through the promotion of rigorous scientific standards, the Vice President, Research maintains the laboratory's reputation for excellence in biomedical inquiry. Braun drives the strategic expansion of research capabilities, ensuring that the institution remains at the cutting edge of genomic science. By aligning research activities with the broader mission, the Vice President, Research supports the development of tools that empower scientists globally.