Dean Li, M.D., Ph.D., serves as the Executive Vice President and President of Merck Research Laboratories at Merck & Co., Inc., a leading global biopharmaceutical company. Dr. Li joined Merck in 2022, bringing with him a wealth of experience in cardiovascular medicine and translational research. Prior to his tenure at Merck, he held the position of Chief Scientific Officer at the University of Utah Health's research enterprise, where he was instrumental in advancing groundbreaking research initiatives. Dr. Li's academic and professional journey is marked by significant achievements in the field of cardiovascular research. He earned his M.D. and Ph.D. from the University of Utah, followed by postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School. Throughout his career, Dr. Li has published numerous peer-reviewed articles and has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the American Heart Association's Established Investigator Award and the National Institutes of Health's MERIT Award. His research has focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms of vascular diseases, leading to the development of novel therapeutic strategies. In his current role at Merck Research Laboratories, Dr. Li oversees the company's global research and development efforts, guiding the development of innovative medicines and vaccines. His leadership is pivotal in driving Merck's mission to improve patient outcomes through scientific excellence and innovation. Under his guidance, Merck continues to advance its pipeline of transformative therapies, aiming to address unmet medical needs across various therapeutic areas.