The Allen Institute today announced the appointment of Julie Harris as the new Vice President of The Paul G. Allen Frontiers Group. Harris was previously Executive Vice President of Research Management at the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund where she oversaw the funding strategy and research priorities for a ~$29 million grant portfolio in support of the most promising science and scientists working to end the burden of Alzheimer’s disease.

Between 2011 and 2020 Harris worked at the Allen Institute for Brain Science as a researcher and Associate Director of Neuroanatomy where she played pivotal roles building several of the Institute’s signature, foundational open science resources, including the Allen Mouse Brain Connectivity Atlas.

“We are thrilled to welcome Julie back to the Allen Institute in her new role as Vice President. Julie’s deep knowledge of the Institute’s science, dating back to its early days, will help us expand our global impact in life sciences and human health,” said Rui Costa, D.V.M., Ph.D., President and CEO of the Allen Institute. “Julie also brings valuable experience from industry and funding landscapes, which will be instrumental in launching new projects and fostering innovative collaborations.”

Harris was also Vice President of Preclinical Biology at Cajal Neuroscience, a Seattle biotech startup focused on identifying therapies for neurodegenerative disease.

“I am extremely excited to be returning to the Allen Institute. Truly game-changing science opens entirely new fields with impact that exceeds expectations,” said Harris. “Ideas can come from surprising sources, and I look forward to working with The Paul G. Allen Frontiers Group to find and support these vital discoveries.”

Harris received a B.S. in Zoology from Michigan State University, a Ph.D. in Neurobiology and Behavior from the University of Washington, and has 50 peer-reviewed publications to her name.