Lynn Wilson
Diagnosed in 2015 with dermatomyositis, Lynn has long envisioned a more patient centered research approach where the myositis community was more actively involved in all stages of the research process. Co-created with Manuel Lubinus, ‘Right Now’ Research is the culmination of that vision, providing a new and innovative approach that gives power to the patient and promotes research that better reflects myositis patients lived experiences.
Manuel Lubinus, PhD
Based in Dallas, Manuel Lubinus, PhD, serves as Chief Science Officer of MSU and Director of ‘Right Now Research’, driving the organization’s research agenda and patient-led initiatives. He collaborates with investigators across the US and internationally to advance myositis research strategies, bringing expertise in science communication, nonprofit governance, and patient-centered advocacy.
Laura Martinez Prat, PhD
Based in Barcelona, Laura’s professional work focuses on developing and implementing novel biomarkers for autoimmune diseases. At ‘Right Now’ Research, she aims to bridge the gap between research and real-world application to improve care management strategies for myositis patients.
Austin Cyphersmith, PhD
As an MDA5 Dermatomyositis patient and double lung transplant recipient, Austin brings a unique patient perspective to his role. Combining his PhD background in research and academia with lived patient experience, he strengthens MSU’s medical communications strategy, ensuring that research findings and patient-driven insights reach both scientific audiences and the broader myositis community.
Pai Hu
With a background in marketing research, Pai leads efforts to ensure that study design and analysis accurately reflect the patient perspective. A self-described “data nerd,” she enjoys uncovering insights hidden within datasets and transforming them into actionable findings that inform patient-centered research and organizational strategy.
Bill Tiller
After being diagnosed with Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM), Bill immersed himself in studying the literature and developed a website to share information with both professionals and patients. He is recognized as a trusted authority and advocate within the IBM community, contributing invaluable patient-researcher expertise to MSU’s initiatives.
Dr. Raiha Shabaz
Dr. Raiha Shahbaz is a medical graduate currently preparing for her U.S. residency applications through the USMLE exams. An aspiring primary care physician, she takes a holistic approach to health, integrating physical and mental well-being. Her research focuses on the role of healthy habits and nutrition in managing myositis and improving patients’ quality of life. a trusted authority.
Marta J. Narvaez, M.Sc.
Based in Florida, Marta Narvaez brings over a decade of experience in clinical research across autoimmune, oncology, and cell therapy studies. With a strong background in biomedical sciences and regulatory operations, she leads MSU’s translational medicine initiatives, advancing mitochondrial cell therapy programs toward preclinical and IND readinesshabits and nutrition in Myositis management and identify ways in which healthy habits can improve patient quality of life.
Stephen Moore, PhD
Stephen Moore fosters collaboration between MSU and professional societies such as ACR, ARP, and others. His work strengthens research visibility and clinician education, ensuring patient-led insights inform rheumatology and neurology training, advocacy, and the dissemination of resources to improve myositis care