Charis Lau, PharmD, OD, MBA

Director

Dr. Charis Lau is a healthcare executive with over 20 years of global experience spanning clinical practice,  pharmaceutical product development, and business strategy. She brings a unique perspective as woman  leader in life sciences, with a strong commitment to innovation, diversity, and mentorship. 

Currently Vice President of Clinical, Medical Affairs and Commercial Affairs at Pleryon Therapeutics, Dr.  Lau leads clinical development, medical affairs and commercial strategy for the company’s novel  therapeutic programs. Previously, she held leadership roles at Johnson & Johnson and Novartis, where she  led high-performing global teams across the U.S., Europe, and Asia, to deliver critical products and  franchise strategies.  

Throughout her career, Dr. Lau has worked at the forefront of innovation—from partnering with big tech to develop a diagnostic model for eye disease, to launch a telehealth eye clinic during the COVID-19  pandemic. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes inclusion, collaboration, and a methodical approach to  organizational growth and innovation. 

Dr. Lau began her academic journey at Idaho State University. She later earned a Doctor of Pharmacy from  the University of Washington, a Doctor of Optometry from UC Berkeley, and an MBA in Finance,  Entrepreneurship, and Management from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. She is a Fellow  of the American Academy of Optometry and an advocate for higher education, serving as a member of both  the Benjamin Franklin Society and the Charter Hill Society. 

A dedicated volunteer, Dr. Lau provides vision care through local and international outreach efforts and has served on nonprofit and corporate boards including the King County Optometric Physicians Board,  Johnson & Johnson’s Women Leadership Initiative, and the Asia Society for Innovation Achievement. 

Returning to Idaho State University as a Foundation Board Member holds special significance for Dr. Lau.  She is excited to give back to the institution where her journey began and to contribute her healthcare  expertise, global leadership experience, and passion for educational advancement to the university's  continued success.