Birgit Piater | Associate Scientific Director - ADC biology
Merck Healthcare KGaA

Dr. Birgit Piater is an accomplished scientist with over ten years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, currently serving as the Head of Laboratory for Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADC) Biology at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. In her role, she leads a dynamic lab team focused on advancing the discovery of next-generation ADCs. Dr. Birgit Piater has a robust background in cell biology and molecular biology, with expertise in quantitative cell-based assays, imaging, and protein biochemistry. She has successfully managed and steered numerous research projects, collaborating with international teams and external partners to drive innovation. She holds a PhD in Biochemistry from the Technical University of Darmstadt, where she contributed to advancements in potential therapeutic aptamers. Her academic journey also includes a Master’s in Molecular Biotechnology and a Bachelor’s in the same field from the Technical University of Munich, complemented by a year of exchange studies at the National University of Singapore. At the Festival of Biologics Basel 2025, Birgit will highlight the development of the novel fluorophore-quencher system TORCH (Turn On after Release by CatHepsins) enlighting the mode of action of ADCs.