Dr. Sumant Ramachandra brings nearly 20 years of healthcare experience and strong leadership abilities to his role as senior vice president, Research & Development (R&D) and Medical Affairs, and chief scientific officer of Hospira, Inc.  In this role, Dr. Ramachandra is charged with helping transform the company through the development and introduction of innovative products that address hospitals’ and healthcare providers’ most pressing needs: reduced costs, improved productivity and increased patient/caregiver safety.

Prior to joining Hospira in July 2008, Dr. Ramachandra spent much of his career leading scientific advancements for some of the industry's largest pharmaceutical companies, including Merck, Pharmacia, Pfizer and Schering-Plough.  As an R&D business leader, Dr. Ramachandra set in motion several therapy programs that would benefit patients living with cancer – such as Camptosar (irinotecan hydrochloride injection) and Aromasin (exemestane tablets) at Pfizer, and Temodar (temozolomide capsules) at Schering-Plough. He was responsible for formulating innovative strategies and executing R&D plans that resulted in successful U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvals.

Dr. Ramachandra's award-winning work is also widely recognized through publications. He has participated in a multitude of scientific studies on tumor cell biology and immunology as well as authoring book chapters about basic cell biology and oncology.  Additionally, he has filed several product patents for various cancer treatments and the use of antibodies in cancer therapy. 

He earned a bachelor's degree in biochemistry from Rutgers University, graduating with high honors.  Dr. Ramachandra then pursued a combined M.D./Ph.D. degree from the University of Medicine and Dentistry-New Jersey Medical School, receiving the University's Medal of Excellence and subsequently conducting his residency at the Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital.  He also earned a master's of business administration at Wharton Business School.