The Engine of Change
Key Advisors
Jack Drda
Scientific Program & Advisory Board Coordinator
Jack Drda is a biomedical researcher in the MD/PhD Program at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC), where he specializes in cellular and molecular pathology within the Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism. Jack’s research focuses on immunometabolism, specifically investigating how cholesterol and lipid trafficking within the lymphatic system regulates inflammatory responses. His clinical work is dedicated to rare autoinflammatory conditions of the mevalonate pathway, including MKD and PMKD. Before joining UPMC, Jack conducted research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and served in the laboratory of Dr. Daniel Kastner within the Medical Genetics Branch, studying the genetic foundations of innate immune activation. At Cure MKD, Jack coordinates the Scientific Advisory Board, ensuring the foundation’s research portfolio = remains at the forefront of metabolic and genetic discovery.
Rachel Rimmer
Patient Advocate
Rachel Rimmer is the Founder and Chair at Rare Autoinflammatory Conditions Community - UK (RACC-UK) and serves as a Patient Advisor for Cure MKD. Diagnosed with MKD at age 16 after a lifelong search for answers, Rachel has dedicated over two decades to rare disease advocacy. She serves as a representative for the European Reference Network (ERN) RITA, where she was a key contributor to the 2025 international consensus guidelines: Recommendations for Transitioning Young People with Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders and Autoinflammatory Diseases to Adult Care. Rachel holds a degree from Oxford Brookes University and continues to strive for better outcomes for others by advocating for earlier diagnosis and faster access to treatments to improve quality of life for the MKD community.
Sarah Smith
Technology Lead
Sarah Smith is a Product Owner at HLK with a strong background in the technology industry. With 10+ years of experience working across digital and tech-driven environments, she brings a thoughtful, user-centered approach to building and optimizing products. In her current role, Sarah collaborates closely with cross-functional teams to guide digital products, manage development priorities, and ensure solutions align with both client goals and user needs. Her experience in tech has equipped her with a deep understanding of agile workflows, product lifecycle management, and delivering scalable digital experiences. Sarah holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Missouri (Mizzou), where she built the foundation for her career in technology and product development. At Cure MKD, she leads efforts to build and bring the website and other digital experiences to life.