Meet the Team

  • Guru Shastry

    Chief Executive Officer

    Mr. Guru Shastry's career in clinical trials and the pharmaceutical industry is marked by exceptional leadership and a profound impact across various organizations. His experience spans significant roles at GSK as a sponsor and PPD Inc. as a CRO, as well as with several small biotech companies and CROs. This diverse background underscores his comprehensive expertise in crucial areas such as clinical data management, clinical development, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), data analysis, biostatistics, and data management.

    Throughout his career, Mr. Shastry has demonstrated a deep understanding of navigating complex regulatory environments, implementing innovative data solutions, and driving successful clinical outcomes. His ability to leverage his expertise across different sectors of the industry—from large pharmaceutical companies to agile biotechs and CROs—reflects his versatility and strategic acumen.

  • Goverdhan Vavilala, PhD

    Chief Scientific Officer

    Mr. Goverdhan Vavilala has an impressive background in the pharmaceutical and Contract Research Organization (CRO) industries, spanning over 20 years. His experience covers various aspects of drug development, from discovery to clinical research. Before joining Celerius CR, Vavilala established several companies like HDH Pharma, Wake Diagnostics, etc., advancing new drug molecules from early stages to lead optimization, and providing analytical and bioanalytical services, leveraging his extensive industry knowledge and leadership skills in the medical and clinical laboratory sector.

    With a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, from IICT, India, and post-doctoral research at The Scripps Research Institute in California, Vavilala held several senior executive roles where he demonstrated strong leadership and strategic thinking, benefiting both small and large pharma companies.

  • Vijay Kumar PhD, MBA.

    Chief Operating Officer

    Mr. Vijay Kumar brings in over 20 years of combined experience in Drug discovery and clinical research. He graduated with a PhD in Molecular Biology and post-doctoral training in infectious diseases. A trained clinical research professional from Harvard Medical School, he is pivotal in monitoring the overall clinical operations across a diverse and expansive portfolio. His expertise spans across all the phases of clinical research, right from study design to close out. His contributions have been instrumental in advancing the company’s broad intellectual capital. He is pivotal in setting the overall strategic direction of the company.

  • Pradeep Bangalore, MBA

    Chief Research/Technological Officer

    Mr. Pradeep Bangalore is a highly experienced clinical research professional and technology expert with a 22-year career trajectory. He has demonstrated versatility by progressing from a Data Analyst to a Senior Clinical Researcher. His expertise encompasses diverse roles like Clinical Data Manager, Biostatistician, Clinical Research Associate, and Clinical Project Manager. Pradeep's contributions on both the sponsor and CRO sides have been significant, ensuring data integrity, regulatory compliance, and successful clinical trial execution. His leadership, innovative data analysis techniques, and unwavering dedication to advancing medical treatments, coupled with his technology expertise, have played a crucial role in enhancing patient well-being and supporting the development of novel therapies.