University of Florida College of Pharmacy graduate Rebecca Goldfaden, Pharm.D., ’11, has been named to UF’s 40 Gators Under 40 class of 2026. This award is presented annually to those in The Gator Nation who are under the age of 40 and achieve remarkable professional success and demonstrate unwavering commitment to service.
“Being recognized as an honoree is really meaningful to me because it is a reflection of the hard work and passion I have put into my career,” said Goldfaden. “I see it as an opportunity to expand my impact both in the UF community and across my profession. On a personal level, it is rewarding to give back to the place that helped shape who I am today.”
Goldfaden currently serves as chief scientific officer and head of partnerships for Rovia Clinical Research, a large clinical research site network based in the southeastern United States. During her time at Rovia, she has served as an investigator on over 100 clinical trials evaluating novel drugs and devices, authored several publications and presented at national and international conferences.
“Beyond the classroom, the resources and experiences at the UF College of Pharmacy allowed me to explore different areas of pharmacy while getting involved in research early on, which really sparked my interest in this field,” Goldfaden said. “Just as important were the people, the UF alumni and pharmacists who were always willing to connect and offer guidance. Those interactions helped me better understand potential career paths and ultimately played a big role in where I am today.”
In the pharmacy field, Goldfaden focuses on advancing treatments for some of the most prevalent chronic diseases, including diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Her work centers on improving the clinical trial process to make studies more efficient and aligned with real-world care. A key part of that effort involves expanding access to clinical trials by bringing research opportunities into more diverse communities and ensuring broader patient representation.
“As I explored health care, I realized I was more drawn to understanding how therapies worked and how they improve patient outcomes, rather than diagnosing conditions,” Goldfaden said. “Pharmacy felt like the right fit because it combines science with patient care, and over time that interest has grown into a real passion for being at the forefront of new therapies, especially emerging treatments.”
For current Gators or recent graduates aspiring to make a meaningful difference early in their careers, Goldfaden says what matters most is being in environments that foster rapid learning, solving real-world problems and having a meaningful impact on patients. She says anchoring your work to a clear mission will help keep you motivated as your career evolves.
“The people who grow the fastest are the ones who raise their hand, take ownership and figure things out along the way,” Goldfaden said. “Also, do not underestimate the value of relationships. Find mentors, learn from people a few steps ahead of you and build a strong network early in your career.”
The UF Alumni Association will honor the 40 Gators Under 40 class at a ceremony during the inaugural Alumni Weekend on June 25, 2026.