Founded in 2017, Trophic Communications is a trusted strategic partner for life science companies seeking expert communications and investor support. Inspired by trophic factors, which are molecules essential for growth, survival, and differentiation, we help organizations of all sizes, from early-stage startups to publicly listed biopharma leaders, tell their stories with:
Founded in 2017, Trophic Communications is a trusted strategic partner for life science companies seeking expert communications and investor support. Inspired by trophic factors, which are molecules essential for growth, survival, and differentiation, we help organizations of all sizes, from early-stage startups to publicly listed biopharma leaders, tell their stories with:
Gretchen founded Trophic Communications in December 2017 bringing with her 20+ years as a strategic communicator and investor relations specialist in the global biopharmaceutical industry. With the company name inspired by ‘trophic factors,’ or molecules that are critical in the growth, survival and differentiation of neurons, Gretchen built the organization with the vision of cultivating, supporting and distinguishing life science companies at all stages of development. As Managing Director of Trophic, Gretchen has created a highly creative and lively work environment and has established a company culture in which bringing clients high-quality service and tangible results remains paramount.
Throughout her career, Gretchen has worked with and counseled a range of companies, from early-stage innovators to pharmaceutical leaders. A true entrepreneur, she also built the European office of MacDougall Biomedical Communications as Managing Director. In addition to 4 years on the management team of Ingenium Pharmaceuticals, her expertise is grounded in her career at Feinstein Kean Healthcare (Boston) where she oversaw the entire Corporate Practice, advising over 50 biotechnology and pharmaceutical clients.
Outside of her professional life, Gretchen is known for her ability to make salads (with homemade salad dressing!) that even the most vegetable-averse individuals will enthusiastically eat. Apart from that, Gretchen can also be found speedily biking through Munich, poring through New Yorker cartoons and bravely boating in the wilderness of Canada.
Managing Director
Stephanie joined Trophic as Account Director and is a driving force in creating value-building communications strategies for both European and US companies. Before joining the team, Stephanie lead a number of successful industry debuts, investor relations projects and supported the development of countless corporate materials ranging from websites to corporate presentations. Having transitioned from neuroscientist to life science communications specialist some years ago, Stephanie brings a steadfast scientific and analytical perspective to the table and is committed to developing a deep understanding of the technology behind each company.
Stephanie holds a PhD in Neuroscience and Master in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich and presently serves as a member of the Board of Directors at the Alzheimer Society, Munich. In her free time, she is a stage diva, avid reader and fearless rock climber.
Managing Director
Florence joined Trophic Communications as Business Manager and oversees all administrative aspects of the organization, ranging from contractual issues to financials and Human Resources. Having graduated with a degree in Law from the Universidad de Navarra, Spain, Florence previously headed the Project and Contract Department for Siemens in Tunisia before delving into business administration at MacDougall Biomedical Communications in early 2016. Florence is also the in-house language expert, speaking a number of foreign languages including English, Spanish, Catalan and French, among others. Despite her linguistic achievements, she has yet to master the art of effectively communicating with her dog, Willow “Bean”.
Managing Director
Jacob joined Trophic in 2018 and brings a truly global perspective to life science communications, shaped by academic and professional experiences across three continents. Trained as a biochemist, he has a deep appreciation for the science that underpins biotech innovation, enabling him to craft strategies and content that resonate with investors, media, and the public alike. At Trophic, Jacob is a go-to strategist for high-impact communications. He develops core messaging, creates investor pitch decks, supports sleek biotech website builds and coordinates non-deal roadshows. He also curates targeted media and investor lists to connect clients with the right audiences. As a seasoned presentation coach, he runs speaker training workshops to help executives deliver their story with clarity, precision, and presence.
Before joining Trophic, Jacob earned his PhD at The University of Texas-MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston and completed a postdoc at the Max Planck Institute for Biochemistry in Munich. For more than a decade, he has also served as the presentation coach for the Amgen Scholars Program at Ludwig-Maximilians University in Munich.
On most days, you’ll find Jacob zooming through Munich on his bright red Vespa or sporting his authentic Texan cowboy hat, courtesy of his Houston years. He firmly believes the world runs better on chai, curiosity, and a healthy dose of sarcasm.
Vice President
Joe Rayne is an investor relations and communications leader with over 12+ years of experience in the biotechnology and healthcare industry. He most recently was Vice President of Corporate Development at Gennao Bio, a preclinical genetic medicine company, where he led communications, business development, and investor relations initiatives and raised $30 million in private capital. Before Gennao, he was a Senior Vice President at Argot Partners and led investor relations programs for publicly traded and pre-IPO biotechnology companies spanning preclinical development through commercialization. Earlier in his career, he held investor relations roles at Inotek Pharmaceuticals and MacDougall Biomedical Communications. He began his career as a Proxy Analyst at MFS Investment Management. He received his M.S. in finance and B.S. in accounting from Bentley University.
Senior Advisor
Valeria joined Trophic Communications as Account Executive after working in e-commerce at Amazon in the Transaction & Risk Management and Retail sectors. With a foundation in business backed by an MSc in Consumer Affairs from the Technical University of Munich and a BA in Sociology and German from Western Washington University, Valeria adds a fresh dimension to the Trophic team, contributing a methodical marketing perspective to all internal and external projects.
Based on her versatile professional and educational experiences, which include having worked for the marketing chair of the Technical University of Munich, as well as for the Consumer Protection Division of the Washington State Attorney General’s Office, Valeria’s role at Trophic encompasses the generation of an immense array of social media content and graphics, supporting in the development of all types of materials such as press releases and positioning workshop presentations as well as successfully implementing media and investor relations efforts.
She is also a former Fulbright Fellow, having spent one year teaching English in Potsdam, Germany, and a recipient of the DAAD Study Scholarship for Graduates of all Disciplines, which funded her Master’s Degree.
Having grown up cross-culturally, Valeria speaks English, German and Italian fluently. When she is not at Trophic, you may find her lounging by the Isar (the mellow river that flows through Munich) with a spiralbound notebook for creative writing in hand, practicing dance moves and French vocabulary with friends, keeping her eyes peeled for fluffy four-legged critters and zealously snacking on pistachios and dark chocolate.
Senior Account Director
Anja joined Trophic in 2024 as an Account Director, bringing over 16 years of experience in strategic communications and investor relations within the biopharmaceutical sector. With a background as a trained biologist and journalist, Anja combines scientific insight with expert storytelling to navigate complex communications challenges. Her career spans roles at Nadaq-listed biotech companies, big pharma, and research institutions like the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry. Notably, she has led internal and external communications efforts before, during, and after an IPO on the Nasdaq.
Anja’s deep expertise in life sciences communication, coupled with her strategic leadership, ensures that she delivers impactful narratives and drives successful stakeholder engagement. Her diverse suite of expertise also includes creating impactful social media campaigns, developing animations to explain complex modes of action, overseeing website projects, and preparing clients for crisis communication.
An intrepid traveling, hiking and nature enthusiast, Anja loves to be in the mountains. She recently completed a major part of a trek across the Alps, a test of mental and physical fitness that inspires awe from the Trophic team.
Senior Account Director
Charlotte joined Trophic in 2021 as Account Executive after submitting her PhD thesis in the field of Alzheimer’s disease and immunology to the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich. Having worked as a graphic designer, she brings to Trophic her passion for breaking down complex scientific concepts into an easily understandable and creative visual format for clients. Given her unique skills in addition to being a native German speaker, she is perfectly positioned at Trophic to tailor written and visual communication in both English and German.
When not at Trophic, Charlotte can be found covered in paint perfecting her skills to the likes of Bob Ross or even quickly pencilling sketches. She is always eager to travel the world to find interesting locations to paint, go diving or hit the slopes.
Account Manager
Verena joined Trophic in 2024 as a Senior Account Executive, bringing extensive expertise in strategic marketing and brand management. In her previous role in a biopharmaceutical company, she led a dynamic marketing team that shaped communications strategies and made complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging. Her experience spans public relations, project management, and creative design -skill sets that enable her to approach Trophic’s client needs from multiple angles with a unique blend of creativity to develop compelling narratives and build strong corporate identities.
Verena holds a Master of Science in International Marketing & Brand Management from Lund University, specializing in consumer trends and innovation. Her native German fluency and proficiency in English further enhance her ability to connect with diverse audiences. Having lived in five countries, she brings a unique international perspective to her work at Trophic.
Outside the office, Verena is an avid traveler who loves discovering new cultures and cuisines in distant lands. Her Austrian roots fuel her passion for the outdoors, whether she’s hiking, skiing, running, or cycling.
Account Manager
Marie joined Trophic Communications as Account Executive and provides the organization with another layer of strong, scientific support. Having joined the team while completing her PhD in Experimental Medicine from the Technical University Munich, she is enthusiastic to apply her scientific background, which also includes a Master’s in Biology from the University of Regensburg, to the expansive ecosystem of strategic life science communications and investor relations. As a part of the Trophic team, she is responsible for leading research for a variety of projects, supporting the development of content in both English and German and executing a number of individualized strategies for a wide range of clients. Her approach to the business, which includes gaining a comprehensive overview of what makes each client unique, germinates from a strong passion for effectively communicating about science.
When Marie isn’t at her desk, she can frequently be found in deep conversation with Willow “Bean” Roters and is known to have a drawer of tasty treats waiting to be consumed by Trophic’s most esteemed canine colleague. Apart from being an ardent office dog supporter, Marie is an active member of a nature conservation association and enjoys going hiking in the stunning mountainside of the Alps. She is also determined to deepen her knowledge of Italian cuisine but in the meantime makes outstanding “Schweinsbraten” and homemade “Knödel”, two classic and delightful staples of Bavarian cuisine.
Account Manager
Adolfo joined Trophic in 2025 as a Senior Account Executive after earning his MSc in Nutrition Science and Biomedicine from the Technical University of Munich. In addition to his formal education in health and life sciences, he brings over eight years of experience in health communications at U.S.-based organizations and associations.
With a strong background in developing award-winning content for diverse stakeholders in the health space, Adolfo ensures the creation of engaging and impactful client materials that resonate with broader communities. Having lived in the U.S., the United Kingdom, Germany, South Korea, and the Ivory Coast—and speaking fluent English, German, and Spanish—he brings valuable cross-cultural competence, enhancing his ability to communicate effectively across global markets.
In his free time, Adolfo enjoys putting his health science knowledge into practice, whether by preparing nutritious meals, experimenting with new workout routines, sipping cocktails infused with cacao-derived bitters, or gardening his own leafy greens and herbs.
Account Manager
Janet joined Trophic in 2025 as an Account Executive while completing her PhD in Molecular Biology at the Ludwig-Maximillians-Universität Munich. Her academic career spans three countries, with a BSc from her homeland of Canada, and an MSc from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. She brings a strong scientific background and a passion for scientific storytelling, which she fostered by organizing events like Soapbox Science Munich. Janet’s talent lies in making challenging scientific concepts engaging and easy to understand. Her love of writing and talking about science make her a perfect fit for the Trophic team.
Janet spends most of her free time outdoors and can regularly be found hiking and skiing in the mountains, or touring Europe with her Gaelic Football team. When indoors, Janet is most likely embarking on ambitious cooking projects or trying to learn new musical instruments (much to her neighbors’ dismay).
Senior Account Executive
Sara joined Trophic in 2023 as an Account Executive, bringing her ample experience in communications and project management. Before joining Trophic, she worked as a Project and Communications Manager at Data-Pop Alliance, where she supported the organization with its external outreach, social media and stakeholder communications. With a degree in Political Science and Development Studies and a masters in Fashion Marketing and Communications, Sara brings to the team years of experience in research and writing engaging pieces that break down complex issues for a general audience. She is also trained in social media management and is skilled in creating communication strategies that allow clients to convey their messaging accurately. Having lived in the USA, studied in Colombia and done a semester abroad in Italy, Sara is fluent in English, Spanish and Italian.
Sara enjoys learning new things in her free time, listening to history podcasts and having passionate, in-depth discussions about music and films.
Account Executive
Maggie joined Trophic in 2026 as an Account Executive, bringing experience in strategic communications, public relations, and marketing, across financial and agency sectors. Previously, she worked in corporate communications at TMX Group, home of the Toronto Stock Exchange, supporting internal and external messaging initiatives.
Originally from Canada and now based in Germany, Maggie brings a cross-cultural, global perspective shaped by collaboration across European and North American contexts. Her background spans social, political, and purpose-driven sectors, with a focus on crafting narratives that foster trust, influence perception, and make complex terminology accessible through clear, human-centered storytelling.
Maggie holds a MA in Communication from Toronto Metropolitan University, where her research examined how digital narratives construct perceptions of individuals in political leadership and the interplay between media, identity, and power. Her academic work earned her the Ontario Graduate Scholarship and the Dean’s Award for Best Overall Performance.
Outside of the office, Maggie teaches Pilates, runs with local clubs, and enjoys discovering Munich’s best coffee spots. She also writes essays and poetry reflecting on identity, language, and the ways stories can connect people.
Account Executive
Rebecca joined Trophic in 2026 as an Account Executive, bringing international agency experience and a strong understanding of how communication must adapt across cultures and audiences. Prior to Trophic, she worked at TBWA/RAAD in Dubai, supporting multi-market advertising campaigns across the Middle East and North Africa.
She holds a master’s degree in International Corporate Communication and Media Management, with a particular interest in stakeholder engagement and in shaping clear, engaging messaging that makes complex topics accessible.
Having lived and worked across Europe, Asia and the Middle East, Rebecca brings a global perspective and strong cross-cultural sensitivity to the team. She also enjoys learning new languages and is currently fluent in three.
Outside of work, Rebecca enjoys calligraphy, strumming the ukulele and hunting down the best food spots and karaoke bars in Munich. She firmly believes that Baskin Robbins’ mint chocolate chip ice cream is worth crossing borders for.
Account Executive
Zeynep joined Trophic in 2026 as an Account Executive, bringing specialized expertise in visual scientific design and communication. She holds an MSc in Biology from the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich. Prior to joining Trophic, she conducted academic research on allergy and asthma prevention at the Helmholtz Center Munich. When she realized that her true calling is in communications, she launched her own scientific communication and design venture. Here she collaborated with academics and biotech companies to help them visualize their data and products efficiently, be it graphical journal abstracts, company fact sheets, social media content or conference booth designs.
Originally from Turkey, with a career spanning from internships in the UK and the USA to professional and academic experiences in Munich, Zeynep thrives in multicultural environments. Leveraging her comprehensive skill set, she pinpoints client USPs and makes complex topics understandable for all audiences.
When she is not working, she enjoys cuddling with her four-legged troublemakers, Ronald and Lily, knitting or crocheting on her couch or getting lost in a good puzzle. Zeynep loves baking and believes everything is more manageable if you have a slice of cake on the side.
Account Executive
Adinda joined Trophic in 2026 as an Account Executive, bringing a strategic approach to translating complex research into clear and impactful messages. She completed her PhD in Neuroscience at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and was a scientific coordinator for a collaborative research consortium. In this role, she worked closely with scientists, clinicians, and administrators to facilitate collaboration, manage projects, and communicate scientific progress to diverse audiences. Adinda has a strong foundation in biomedical research and communication, with a particular interest in transforming complex ideas into clear and visually engaging graphic designs. Having lived in several European countries, Adinda thrives in multicultural environments and has a keen curiosity for languages and cultures.
Outside of work, she enjoys exploring the mountains around Munich, something she never had access to while growing up in Belgium, and has embraced a range of Alpine sports. When the weather keeps her indoors, she turns to DIY projects, like sewing outfits for her ever-growing wardrobe and building the furniture needed to store them.
Account Executive
Jennifer joined Trophic in May 2026 as Head of HR, where she oversees the full range of HR responsibilities across the organization. Her work includes recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, performance and development processes, HR operations, and supporting managers and teams in building effective, people-centered ways of working.
Before joining the team, Jennifer gained broad experience in IT-focused organizations, including software manufacturers and consulting companies. Her background spans partner management, development, and training in the IT space, before she moved into HR management and recruiting for software development teams.
As a trusted advisor, Jennifer is committed to creating collaborative and supportive working environments. She places particular focus on psychological safety, transparency, and empathetic communication, helping teams and leaders work together with clarity and trust.
Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys dancing, baking, roller skating, and spending time with her husband and their delighfully cranky corgi.
Head of HR
Ulviya joined Trophic in February 2026 as Office Manager, where she keeps the office running smoothly and makes sure the team has everything they need to do their best work. From managing office operations and supplies, to providing day-to-day administrative support, she plays a key role in creating an organized and welcoming workplace.
Before joining the team, Ulviya supported various projects in large multinational oil & gas and IP companies in Azerbaijan and Germany. She brings hands-on expertise in facility management, vendor relations and office operations.
In her free time, Ulviya enjoys spending time with her family, exploring new cities, and unwinding with a good book on her Kindle.
Office Manager
A founding member of the Trophic team, Willow “Bean” had a strong nose for business and biotech and an even stronger commitment to locating food and food-like substances. After working for years in various office settings, Willow joined Trophic with substantial expertise in barking when the doorbell rings, demanding head pats during stressful situations, and offering strategic counsel through tail wagging. She was fluent in English, German, Bavarian, and Labrador and could often be heard contributing on conference calls with emphatic snores, sighs, and sporadic toy squeaks. Willow will be remembered for her love of apple cores and bread, having her photo taken every morning, and being a delight to work with. We carry Willow’s spirit forward – her kindness, her playfulness, and her ability to make every moment just a little bit brighter. She’ll forever be a part of the Trophic Team.
In Memoriam
