TSRL Leadership Recognized as “Top Women in Tech to Know in 2026”

TSRL, Inc. President and CEO Dr. Elke Lipka and Senior Advisor Dr. Jessica Reed have been named to Purpose Jobs’ “43 Top Women in Tech to Know in 2026” list, recognizing leaders who are driving meaningful innovation across technology and science.

Purpose Jobs is a Detroit-founded platform focused on connecting high-growth companies with top talent while elevating the people behind today’s most important work. Since its founding in 2017, the organization has worked with companies ranging from startups to Fortune 500 leaders, building a strong presence across key Midwest innovation hubs and becoming a trusted voice in highlighting leaders who are shaping the future of their industries.

For TSRL, this recognition provides greater insight into the role of scientific leadership in advancing drug development. As therapies become more complex, progress depends on experienced preclinical CRO teams who can translate data into clear decisions and guide programs forward with confidence.

“Recognition like this speaks to the growing influence of pharmaceutical sciences leaders in shaping the future of medicine,” said Dr. Lipka. “At TSRL, our focus has always been on bringing promising therapies closer to patients through strong science, thoughtful strategy, and smart collaboration.”

Dr. Lipka has led TSRL for more than a decade , guiding the company through sustained growth and positioning it as a trusted preclinical CRO partner for academic institutions, biotech companies, and pharmaceutical organizations. Under her leadership, TSRL has secured nearly $20 million in non-dilutive funding and built a model that gives early-stage innovators access to experienced scientists, advanced facilities, and integrated preclinical support. Her background includes leadership roles at Parke-Davis, Pfizer, and Esperion Therapeutics, with deep expertise in pharmacokinetics, drug delivery, and drug safety.

Dr. Reed brings more than 25 years of pharmaceutical industry experience and provides strategic scientific leadership across TSRL’s programs. An accomplished scientist and executive, she has supported over 10 IND applications and seven successful NDA or sNDA submissions, along with multiple preclinical candidates, including dacomitinib (Vizimpro), an approved treatment for non-small cell lung cancer. Her experience spans oncology, central nervous system, and metabolic diseases, with leadership roles across multiple organizations including Parke-Davis/Pfizer, the Sarcoma Alliance for Research Through Collaboration (SARC), Millendo, Diapin Therapeutics and TSRL.

Together, Drs. Lipka and Reed represent the kind of experience TSRL has built over its 40-year history. A team grounded in scientific depth, clear thinking, and the ability to guide complex programs toward meaningful outcomes.

Beyond their professional work, both are committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists and expanding opportunities for women and underrepresented groups in the life sciences.

“As the life sciences field evolves, experienced leadership remains critical to navigating scientific and regulatory complexity,” said Dr. Reed. “It is an honor to be recognized alongside some of the women who are making a real impact across tech-focused industries.”

View the full list of honorees here: https://www.purpose.jobs/blog/top-women-in-tech-2026.