Transvision 2007 - Chicago, June 23rd - 26th
Martine Rothblatt, Ph.D., J.D., M.B.A.
Chairman & CEO, United Therapeutics Corp.
Martine Rothblatt started United Therapeutics (NASDAQ: UTHR) in 1996 and has served as Chairman & CEO since its inception. The company develops and/or commercializes unique analogs of natural molecules for cardio-pulmonary disorders, novel monoclonal antibodies for certain cancers, small glycobiologicals for infectious diseases, telemedical services (including for International Space Station astronauts) and nutriceuticals.
Prior to starting United Therapeutics, in 1990 Dr. Rothblatt created Sirius Satellite Radio and served as its first Chairman & CEO. She also initiated and led the effort to get the Federal Communications Commission to create the satellite radio service in which both Sirius and XM operate, based on underutilized frequencies and the novel concept of using GPS-type antennas for digital audio.
Prior to starting Sirius, Dr. Rothblatt served as President & CEO of Dr. Gerard K. O'Neill's satellite navigation company, 'Geostar.' The satellite system she launched in 1986 continues to operate today, providing service to certain government agencies. During this period she also partnered the first automatic vehicle location systems for public transit as well as founded a global satellite system called 'WorldSpace' to replace shortwave radio and provide tele-education services to people in developing countries.
Dr. Rothblatt's career in satellite communications began in 1980 with her MBA thesis, PanAmSat, which formed the basis of the first private international satellite system. She led the effort to get PanAmSat initially financed and approved. This satellite system ultimately became the world's largest after being acquired by Hughes and Intelsat.
Dr. Rothblatt's public service activities include representing the radio astronomy community in its efforts to secure quiet frequency bands for astrophysical research, developing improved medical ethics for transgender health service providers, and leading the International Bar Association's effort to provide the United Nations with a Human Genome Treaty. Her publications include five books and over fifty peer-reviewed articles.
