Cambridge, MA – Project Insulin is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Allison Ortigosa as Chief Scientific Officer. Dr. Ortigosa brings over 18 years of experience in bioprocess development and pharmaceutical leadership, including 16 years at Merck & Co., where she played a key role in the development and commercialization of biologics and vaccines.
Dr. Ortigosa notably served as the drug substance technical lead for insulin glargine, guiding the program from laboratory scale through to commercial manufacturing. Her work has resulted in multiple publications and patents in protein purification and process innovation, helping shape global strategies for regulatory submissions, process development, and scale-up.
“I am so excited to join Project Insulin as Chief Scientific Officer at such a pivotal moment in its history and journey. The opportunity to advance health equity and affordability for a product like insulin is deeply aligned with both my scientific passion and personal drive to make a difference in the lives of patients. I’m honored to contribute my energy and expertise to a team that’s reimagining how we reach those in need, with empathy, equity, and purpose at the core of everything we do.” — Dr. Allison Ortigosa
Dr. Ortigosa holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Biophysics from Texas A&M University and completed her postdoctoral research at MIT. She is known for her ability to translate complex science into practical solutions.
“The fact that we were able to hire someone as talented and experienced as Allison is a big deal for Project Insulin. Her leadership ensures we can move forward with drug development quickly and effectively.” — Eric Moyal, Executive Director
Cambridge, MA – Project Insulin has received 501(c)(3) designation from the IRS, allowing the organization to accept tax-deductible donations, grants, and sponsorships.
“Getting tax-exempt status from the IRS opens us to a wide array of funding opportunities and legitimizes our mission.” — Eric Moyal, Founder
The Cambridge-based nonprofit aspires to develop and distribute affordable insulin for people with diabetes, particularly those who are uninsured or cannot afford their copay.
Cambridge, MA, October 31, 2021 – Project Insulin is a new not-for-profit pharmaceutical company with a simple mission: sell FDA-approved insulin at cost. Between 2007 and 2016, the price of insulin rose over 295% while production costs grew just 57%. Project Insulin intends to change that.
The company will begin by producing a biosimilar of Sanofi’s Lantus, a long-acting insulin used by 19 million Americans. The cheapest existing biosimilar still costs $65 for 3mL. Project Insulin aims to go lower, using donations to directly reduce the price at the point of sale.
Founder Eric Moyal brings three years of chronic illness advocacy and four years of fundraising experience to the effort. He is joined on the governing board by attorney Sam Zuckernick and public policy researcher Gabriella Fleischman, alongside an advisory board of pharmaceutical and medical professionals.
“Without these people we wouldn’t be where we are now. It is great to know that so many people care so deeply about such an important issue.” — Eric Moyal, Founder