[May 22, 2026] – The GRIN2B Foundation is proud to announce the appointment of Tamara McNally as its new Science Director. Bringing nearly three decades of experience in global drug development and clinical operations, McNally will help guide the Foundation’s scientific strategy and support continued momentum in advancing research and therapeutic readiness for GRIN2B neurodevelopmental disorder.
With 29 years of leadership across the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, McNally most recently served as Senior Vice President of Global Clinical Operations at Neurvati Neurosciences / GRIN Therapeutics. Prior to that role, she held senior leadership positions at Merck, Novartis, Roche, Boehringer Ingelheim, and Ovid Therapeutics, overseeing complex global Phase I–III programs spanning oncology, infectious disease, central nervous system disorders, and rare diseases.
As Science Director, McNally will focus on strengthening clinical readiness within the emerging GRIN2B field, including advancing early diagnosis efforts, supporting natural history and clinical outcome strategies, and helping prepare the community for future therapeutic development opportunities.
“Tamara’s depth of experience and passion for rare disease families make her an extraordinary addition to the Foundation’s leadership,” said Liz Marfia-Ash, Board Chair of the GRIN2B Foundation. “As the GRIN2B field continues to evolve, her guidance will help ensure our community is prepared, connected, and positioned to accelerate meaningful progress for patients and families worldwide.”
Phil Ash, Board Member of the GRIN2B Foundation, added, “Tamara brings a unique ability to bridge scientific strategy with the real-life needs of rare disease families. Her leadership and collaborative spirit will be invaluable as the Foundation continues building partnerships and advancing research initiatives that move the field forward.”
A passionate advocate for individuals and families living with rare and ultra-rare neurodevelopmental disorders, McNally is widely recognized for championing inclusion, excellence, and diversity in clinical research. She also serves on the board of KIF1A.org, where she supports initiatives that ensure rare disease communities are seen, heard, and represented throughout the research and drug development process.
The appointment reflects the Foundation’s continued investment in scientific leadership, research preparedness, and long-term progress toward improving outcomes for individuals living with GRIN2B neurodevelopmental disorder.
For more information about the GRIN2B Foundation, visit GRIN2B Foundation.