Dr. Hammerschlag is a graduate of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in NY and currently Professor of Pediatrics and Medicine at SUNY Downstate. She is an expert consultant to the CDC for the STI Treatment Guidelines. Her research has been focused on epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of chlamydia infections

Aparna joined Abbott in 2022 as the DVP of Medical, Clinical & Scientific Affairs within the Infectious Diseases Rapid Diagnostics based in Lake Forest, Illinois. She co-leads the Diversity in Research office, championing inclusion and equity in our clinical trial research. Before joining Abbott, she served as Chief Medical Officer at T2 Biosystems, Inc., where she served as the Company’s Key Medical spokesperson, provide leadership and strategic direction for all Medical, Clinical, Scientific and Regulatory Affairs activities, engage with Board of Directors and Investors. Her extensive experience also includes the position of Worldwide Vice President, Medical Affairs at Becton Dickinson, where she led the medical, scientific, clinical strategy aligned to business, clinical development, and customer needs, chaired the Global Clinical Council and was the medical leader on the BDX Global Inclusion Council. Aparna earned her medical degree from Delhi University, India, and holds additional certifications, and is a fellow of College of American Pathologists (CAP). Trained auditor with CAP and ISO15189. She is an active member of professional organizations such as the CAP, IDSA, ASTDA, ASM, ADLM, EFLM, and is currently the Chair of CLSI Expert Panel. Aparna is recognized for her commitment to global health initiatives, having been involved in multiple projects in Africa, Asia, and CIS countries to advance health equity globally. Aparna enjoys swimming, music, dance, watersports and fun! Favorite quote: – “What you do has far greater impact than what you say.” — Stephen Covey.