Maija Dambrova, PhD, MBA, is a pharmaceutical pharmacologist and Professor at Riga Stradiņš University, and serves as Head of the Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology at the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis. Her research bridges pharmacology, physiology, and translational medicine, with a particular focus on cardiometabolic diseases, mitochondrial function, and energy metabolism. Prof. Dambrova is internationally recognized for her contributions to drug discovery and development, particularly in the study of acylcarnitines and metabolic modulators. She is also interested in ethnopharmacology, medicinal plants, and nature as a source of novel drugs.

Her multidisciplinary research integrates preclinical models with clinical data, enabling the identification of novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers for heart failure, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. Prof. Dambrova has authored over 170 peer-reviewed publications and actively participates in national and international research projects, including EU-funded initiatives and collaboration with industry partners.

Prof. Dambrova is also committed to fostering scientific talent and serves as a mentor to early-career researchers and doctoral students. She contributes to shaping science policy in Latvia and Europe, particularly in widening participation in the European Research Area. Her leadership and scientific vision support the translation of research into clinical practice and public health benefits.