Celia Van der Merwe

Observer
DISC Type : ic

Research Director at Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard

Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States

Overview

Celia van der Merwe is the Research Director for the NeuroDevelopmental Variability Initiative at the Broad Institute. With a PhD in Human Genetics from Stellenbosch University, she leads large-scale genomics studies focusing on neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders, particularly autism. Her work emphasizes multi-disciplinary collaboration and genomic data analysis.

She is passionate about making research more inclusive, with a focus on engaging underrepresented and vulnerable populations. This stems from her background in South Africa and drives her to improve the relationship and trust between researchers and communities. She actively mentors young students in the field.

Celia co-launched HEARD (Healthy Engagement in Autism Research Dialogue), a global initiative to build trust and improve communication between researchers and the autism community.

Personality Overview

Curious

Example Seeker

Assertive

They can sound friendly and charming but can quickly change gears to become inquisitive and probing.  They ask a lot of questions and rely heavily on information and collaterals. They are generally good communicators and can be hard to convince.

Topics They Care About

Community Engagement
Co-founded the HEARD initiative to foster productive dialogue and build trust between autism researchers, autistic people, and their families.
Neurodevelopmental Genetics
Her research focuses on the genetic influences of autism and heterogeneity across cohorts. She directs the NeuroDevelopmental Variability Initiative at the Broad Institute.
Inclusive Research
Passionate about including underrepresented populations, particularly from Africa, in neuropsychiatric genetics research to address the diversity gap in data.

Media Appearances

Celia has no verified media appearances

Work History

7-2022
Research Director at Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard
7-2022
Staff Research Associate at Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard
10-2020 - 7-2022
Research Director at NeuroDev Study
1-2019 - 10-2020
Postdoctoral Researcher at Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard
1-2015 - 12-2018
Postdoctoral Researcher at University of Cape Town

Education

1-2013 - 12-2015
Doctor of Philosophy - PhD from Stellenbosch University
Education details unavailable from University of Cape Town

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 11 Location : Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States Job Level : Mid-senior Designation : Research Director at Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard
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Insights For Selling To Celia

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • Use phrases like ‘clear proof that’, ‘data shows’ etc.
  • Invite them for a social do but don’t rely solely on the relationship
  • Persuade objectively how your product will help them achieve their goals

DONT's

  • Don’t try to rush them into a decision, provide all necessary information first
  • Don’t rely excessively on your relationship with them to win the deal
  • Don’t brush off any concerns, take all questions seriously

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with Celia is

  • Proven value, strong testimonials are important for them, rapport can impact decisions a little.
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from Celia

  • They are practical and friendly, don't expect a clear-cut response often.

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will Celia move?

  • They like to be detailed and take their time to arrive at decisions.
  • Can Celia take some risk or not?

  • They weigh all decisions systematically and are unlikely to take many risks.

You And Celia

Personality Compatibility


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