Behavioral Science Consortium (BSC)

The Behavioral Science Consortium (BSC) investigates how psychological, social, cultural, and environmental factors shape behaviors and health outcomes. By collaborating with global experts in disciplines such as psychology, anthropology, sociology, or behavioral economics, the BSC tackles the key challenges patients and caregivers face, such as understanding treatment options, managing symptoms, or navigating communication with healthcare providers. This interdisciplinary approach also examines provider behaviors and decision-making to gain a comprehensive view of the human dynamics in the healthcare ecosystem. The BSC’s insights inform practical, patient-centric solutions across Astellas, such as tools to support shared decision-making, resources for patient education, or interventions designed to improve care delivery – empowering patients and caregivers to achieve the health outcomes they desire. 

Working with the Faculty and teams across Astellas, the BSC translates behavioral science into VALUE for patients through curriculum and projects. 

Astellas graphic depicting Behavioral Science curriculum and projects.
Meet the Team

BSC Team

Astellas BSC Team, Lisa Mattle, Head.

Head

Lisa Mattle

Lisa joined Astellas in 2012. With over 20 years in the pharmaceutical industry and passionate about doing even more for patients and their families, Lisa built the Behavioral Science Consortium to provide Astellas with insights into the factors that prevent patients from getting the outcomes they desire. Five years later and with an amazing team of experts, the BSC continues to provide the critical insights necessary to deliver effective patient solutions.

Astellas BSC Team, Laura De Ruiter, Ph.D. and Lead.

Ph.D., Lead

Laura de Ruiter

Laura joined Astellas in 2021. After many years in academic research, she realized that she wanted to apply her knowledge of human behavior where it can truly make a difference: in people’s health. At the BSC, Laura explores how psychological, social, and systemic factors affect health outcomes. Her aim is to use that understanding to help Astellas create solutions that improve patient lives.

Astellas BSC Team, Caroline Smith, Ph.D. and Fellow.

Ph.D., Fellow

Caroline Smith

Caroline earned a PhD in Biological Anthropology and joined Astellas as a Fellow in 2024. She spent her academic career studying the interactions between health and human behavior and was eager to translate her knowledge to tangible health outcomes. In her role at the Behavioral Science Consortium, she applies her expertise in human behavior and passion for improving well-being to the Astellas mission of delivering value to patients. 

Meet the Team

Faculty Bios