Savine DaCosta’s journey is one of resilience, purpose, and passion. Born and raised in New York City, she then pursued her education in Pennsylvania and Boston, earning undergraduate and graduate degrees in business. Today, through Biogen’s tuition reimbursement program, she’s pursuing a PhD in Leadership from Trevecca Nazarene University. Savine pursues this goal to deepen research on cross-functional collaboration and inclusive leadership. “My PhD is about understanding true leadership in all forms,” she shares. “I want to find ways to work together with different types of leaders toward an amicable end.”
Savine’s professional path began in pharmaceutical sales, followed by roles in marketing, medical affairs, and patient engagement. At Biogen, she leads efforts to ensure inclusion and representation in clinical research. Her work involves setting inclusion goals based on disease epidemiology, selecting clinical sites, and developing strategies to engage communities early in the research process. “The first time someone hears about a clinical trial shouldn’t be when they’re asked to join. We build awareness and educate early so participants feel empowered and informed.”
An ornament painted by Savine's son.
Her passion for advocacy is deeply personal. As a self-called “forever caregiver” to her son, who was born a micro-preemie and lives with multiple disabilities, Savine volunteers in her community to support families navigating the healthcare system. With this work, she focuses on supporting people living with disabilities as well as individuals with premature babies.
Outside of work, Savine finds joy in photography and crafting, hobbies that began as therapeutic activities for her son. “We started painting acrylic-pour Christmas bulbs and making beaded bracelets to help him use his hands more,” she says.
Savine’s impact at Biogen extends beyond her role. She’s participated in several of Biogen’s leadership development programs, including one currently where she acts as a peer leader, mentoring colleagues, and fostering personalized guidance. Over the years, she’s also mentored several interns from historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), a highlight of her time at Biogen explained Savine.
“I started as a contractor over four years ago, and from day one, the culture was collaborative and welcoming,” she recalls. “When my son had major surgery, the team was like a warm hug. Everyone reached out. They truly care about people here.”
Her advice to future team members? “Be authentic, collaborative, and open to innovation. Own your development and don’t be afraid to ask questions. At the end of the day, all the work we do is for the patients we serve.”
