Leadership

Andy Zhao, Ph.D.

Senior Analytical Chemist

Dr. Zhao is a seasoned analytical chemist with a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Currently serving as a Team Leader at IAS, Dr. Zhao oversees and leads a team of scientists specializing in LC-MS/MS analysis. His expertise lies in experimental design, data interpretation, method development and optimization, and talent development. Prior to his current role, Dr. Zhao held positions at Pharmaron and High North Laboratories. At Pharmaron, he focused on developing and validating assays for small and large molecules. At High North Laboratories, he managed the analytical laboratory, overseeing routine sample analysis, method development and validation for cannabis products, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Dr. Zhao brings a wealth of experience in LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, ICP-MS, and HPLC techniques to his work. His strong analytical skills, coupled with a deep understanding of scientific principles, enable him to deliver accurate and reliable results.

Samantha Gromek, Ph.D.

Quality Assurance Manager

As Quality Assurance Manager, Sam ensures full compliance with regulatory, industry, and corporate standards across laboratory operations, testing procedures, and reporting protocols. She leads the development, implementation, and continual improvement of the lab’s Quality Management System (QMS), aligning it with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation requirements. Sam also oversees critical quality functions including analytical method validation, equipment calibration, and data integrity systems. She spearheads root cause investigations for non-conformances and drives continuous improvement initiatives to optimize operational efficiency and uphold the highest standards of analytical quality.

Sam holds a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences with a focus in Medicinal Chemistry from the University of Connecticut and completed postdoctoral research at the University of Pennsylvania. A dedicated scientist and communicator, she has authored seven first-author publications and has presented her research at five national/international scientific conferences.

Alison Terrana,

Director of Sales

Alison Terrana serves as the Director of Sales at Integrated Analytical Solutions (IAS) Cannabis Lab, bringing over two decades of experience in medical diagnostics, laboratory services, and healthcare sales. Known for her strategic vision and client-focused approach, Alison plays a key role in driving growth and cultivating strong partnerships within New Jersey’s regulated cannabis industry.

Alison Terrana serves as the Director of Sales at Integrated Analytical Solutions (IAS) Cannabis Lab, bringing over two decades of experience in medical diagnostics, laboratory services, and healthcare sales. Known for her strategic vision and client-focused approach, Alison plays a key role in driving growth and cultivating strong partnerships within New Jersey’s regulated cannabis industry.

Alison is committed to raising the standard for cannabis safety, service, and scientific integrity.

Martin Adelson, Ph.D.

Chief Operating Officer

As Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Adelson leads clinical, development, and discovery research operations. His focus is on expanding and strengthening business infrastructure through strategic growth initiatives, corporate acquisitions, technological innovation, and operational excellence. Before his appointment as COO in 2013, Dr. Adelson held key leadership roles, including Director of Research & Development and Vice President.

He holds a B.S. in Biology from The College of New Jersey and a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology and Genetics from Temple University School of Medicine. He completed his postdoctoral training at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and was awarded a prestigious NIH National Lung and Blood Institute Fellowship.

A prolific contributor to the scientific community, Dr. Adelson has authored over 60 peer-reviewed publications and 82 abstracts, and has delivered more than 15 presentations at major scientific conferences. He holds academic appointments as an Associate Professor at Rowan University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and serves on the Biotechnology Program Advisory Committee at Thomas Jefferson University.

Dr. Adelson’s industry leadership includes editorial board service for Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease and the Journal of Clinical Microbiology, and advisory roles with JBS Science, Inc. and the New Jersey and Pennsylvania BioTech and Life Sciences Leadership Council. He is certified as a Medical Director by the Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, and is an active member of the American Society for Microbiology, the International Organization for Mycoplasmology, and the Association for Molecular Pathology.

Kelly Winchester,

Chief Laboratory Strategy Officer

Kelly is responsible for strategic planning and aligning with our overall vision and goals. She identifies and prioritizes research areas, fostering innovation and collaboration within the laboratory. By analyzing laboratory data, she identifies trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement while reporting on key performance indicators (KPIs). Kelly stays informed about relevant policies and regulations to ensure that the laboratory operates in compliance with industry standards.

Kelly began her career with Medical Diagnostic Laboratories in the Clinical Laboratory as a Laboratory Technician in 2004. In 2005 she became a Clinical Validation Technician and transitioned into the role of Clinical Implementation/Validation Coordinator in 2007. In 2010 Kelly was promoted to Assistant Director of the QA & QC Department. She held this position until 2012, when she became Director of Quality Control. In 2017 Kelly was promoted to Vice President of Clinical Laboratory Operations, a position she held until transitioning into her current role.