James Pérez, Ph.D., is Director of Innovation & Scientific Advisor at DECA Analytics, where he leverages his deep expertise in the research and development (R&D) tax credit program to build incentive strategies. He supports DECA Analytics’ efforts to combine industry-leading R&D tax credit claims execution with incentive strategies that deliver measurable business and economic development outcomes.

James’ career spans more than two decades at the intersection of science, industry, and economic development. Before joining DECA Analytics, he spent 17 years at the Puerto Rico Department of Economic Development and Commerce (DEDC), where he managed the industrial R&D program: a portfolio of innovation-focused incentives including cash grants, R&D tax credits, and industrial tax exemptions. He developed and implemented the industrial R&D program’s incentive certification processes, successfully certifying approximately $100 million in incentives annually over 14 years with no legal or audit challenges, while generating an estimated $1 million in annual savings to public coffers. James also collaborated across government, industry, and academia to advance technology-led economic development initiatives, supporting a region with 40+ high-technology industrial operations across life sciences, aerospace, and information technology, among other sectors.

Prior to public service, James’ professional background included management, technical support for manufacturing operations, and industrial R&D in the pharmaceutical and consumer products industries. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Analytical Chemistry from Purdue University. His broad experience and expertise in industrial innovation, technology-led public policy, government incentives procurement processes, and Puerto Rico’s unique R&D tax credit program contribute strongly to DECA Analytics’ most impactful services and initiatives.