Leandro Velez

Leandro Velez is a Senior Scientist in Translational Research at SMS Biotech since March 2025, specializing in stem cell therapies and driving preclinical collaborations for COPD and other diseases. Previously, Leandro served as an Associate Specialist and PostDoctoral Researcher at the University of California, Irvine, focusing on preclinical systems genetics related to metabolic disease in PCOS, conducting over 300 in vivo metabolic assessments, and mentoring students. Earlier experience includes a postdoctoral role at Conicet investigating genetic diversity in wild rodents and a PhD Scholar position at ANPCyT and CONICET, where Leandro researched pharmacologically-induced PCOS in rat models. Leandro began a research career in food technology at the Instituto de Tecnología de Alimentos in 2009. Educational qualifications include a PhD in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Buenos Aires and a degree in Biological Sciences Education.