Roche USA

Roche Scientist Kyle L. Kolaja, Ph.D., D.A.B.T., Fellow
A.T.S., of Montclair, N.J., was recently named a Fellow of the Academy of Toxicological
Sciences (ATS), an honor held by less than five percent of the organization’s 6,000 members.
To earn the certification, Kolaja, Director of Early Safety and Investigative Toxicology in
Roche’s Non-Clinical Safety, had to demonstrate impressive professional experience, extensive
knowledge of toxicology and involvement in broad-based toxicological activities. He is among
the youngest ATS Fellows and is the first Roche scientist to achieve this recognition since 1995.
“I’m very pleased. It is rewarding to be involved at a higher level with leaders in the field
and help drive discussions about the direction of the profession as well as ways to increase public
understanding of toxicology,” said Kolaja.
The author of nearly fifty peer-reviewed scientific papers, Kolaja has given more than 40
lectures and presentations at symposia and conferences and is on the editorial board of two
toxicology journals. He is the recipient of a number of grants and awards, and is a member of
several professional organizations, including being a Diplomate of the American Boards of
Toxicology and also serving on its Board of Directors.

“We are extremely proud of Dr. Kolaja for his ATS Fellowship. He not only is a leader in
the field of toxicology, but an exceptional mentor and team manager. His contributions to Roche
are outstanding, including his recent work and application of stem cell research in toxicology,”
said Mudher Albassam, B.V.M.S., Ph.D., Sr. Director, Head of Toxicology and Pathology, Non
Clinical Safety.
Kolaja joined Roche in 2005 at the company’s Palo Alto, Ca. site, where he was recruited
to start a new investigative toxicology department. In 2009, he transferred to Roche Nutley,
where he has investigated and analyzed toxicology risks for a number of compounds in the
earliest stages of drug discovery. In addition, he led development of and oversees a dedicated
research laboratory for stem cell biology and has mentored post-doctoral fellows. Before Roche,
he held increasingly responsible positions at Searle Pharmaceuticals and Iconix Pharmaceuticals.
Although initially on a pre-med track, Kolaja’s lifelong curiosity about “how things work,”
led him instead to pursue a career in science. After graduating from Michigan State University,
he earned his Ph.D. in toxicology from Indiana University School of Medicine in 1996 and did
post-doctoral research in toxicology at the University of Kansas Medical Center.
About ATS
The Academy of Toxicological Sciences (ATS), founded in 1981, certifies toxicologists who are
recognized by their peers for their expertise and sound scientific judgment. The purpose of this
recognition and certification is to ensure the competence and experience of professionals whose
work affects public welfare. Candidates for certification must have broad knowledge of
toxicology and demonstrate current involvement in toxicological activities.

This is demonstrated through impressive professional experience supported by publications,
demonstrated sound scientific judgment recognized by peers, and through appointment or
election to professional organizations. For more information see the ATS website:
www.acadtoxsci.org

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Contact:
Darien Wilson
Public Affairs
973-562-2232
darien_e.wilson@roche.com