Life Science Washington and Life Science Washington Institute is proud to announce Dr. Cristina Giachetti, Ph.D. as the recipient of the 2025 Ingrid K. Ruf, PhD Mentor of the Year Award.

Named in memory of Dr. Ingrid K. Ruf, who served as LSW Institute’s Director of Entrepreneurship from 2016 to 2019, this award celebrates her legacy of empowering life science entrepreneurs and honors mentors who share her dedication to fostering innovation and growth.

A Washington Innovation Network (WIN) mentor since 2017, Dr. Giachetti has supported more than 30 companies and currently mentors nine ventures. A biochemist by training, she is an accomplished life sciences executive with leadership experience at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Hologic, and Gen-Probe, and serves on several boards. Her kindness, expertise, and thoughtful guidance have made a lasting impact on countless founders and teams across Washington’s life sciences ecosystem.

Dr. Giachetti exemplifies the spirit of mentorship that continues to strengthen and inspire our community. Congratulations, Dr. Giachetti