Biotech 2050 Podcast

Synopsis: What does bold biotech leadership look like in 2025? In this episode of Biotech 2050, host Alok Tayi sits down with Stacy Lindborg, President & CEO of Imunon, to discuss bold innovation in ovarian cancer treatment and how harnessing the immune system through targeted gene therapy is reshaping survival outcomes. Stacy shares insights from her 30-year career—from her statistical roots at Eli Lilly to her mission-driven leadership at Imunon. She highlights the groundbreaking results from Imunon's IL-12 plasmid platform, which is showing a remarkable 13-month overall survival advantage in ovarian cancer patients and is now entering Phase 3 trials. They also discuss the evolving biotech landscape, how adaptive trial designs and AI are unlocking clinical potential, and why cultivating a bold, transparent company culture is key to advancing transformational science. Biography: Stacy R. Lindborg, PhD, was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Imunon in May 2024. Dr. Lindborg has served on Imunon's Board of Directors since June 2021. Dr. Lindborg has nearly 30 years of pharmaceutical and biotech industry experience with a particular focus on R&D, regulatory affairs, executive management and strategy development. She has designed, hired and led global teams, guiding long-term vision for growth through analytics and stimulating innovative development platforms to increase productivity. Prior to joining Imunon, Dr. Lindborg was Executive Vice President and Co-Chief Executive Officer at BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics where she will remain a member of the company's Board of Directors. At BrainStorm she was accountable for creating and executing clinical development strategies through registration and launch and progressed its novel cell therapy for ALS through a positive Phase 3 Special Protocol Assessment (SPA) study with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. She interacted frequently with investors and analysts, represented the company in the scientific community as well as with the media, and played an active role in discussions with potential business partners. Dr. Lindborg previously was Vice President & Global Analytics and Data Sciences Head, responsible for R&D and marketed products at Biogen. She began her biopharmaceutical career at Eli Lilly and Company where over the course of 16 years she assumed positions of increasing responsibility, including Head of R&D strategy. Dr. Lindborg received an M.A. and Ph.D. in statistics, and a B.A. in psychology and math from Baylor University. She has authored more than 200 presentations and 90 manuscripts that have been published in peer-reviewed journals, including 20 first-authored. She has held numerous positions within the International Biometric Society and American Statistical Association and was elected Fellow in 2008.

Synopsis: What happens when a former journalist becomes one of biotech's boldest investors? Meet Stephanie Sirota, Chief Business Officer and Partner at RTW Investments, who helped grow the firm from $27 million in assets to a global biotech force. In this engaging conversation with host Rahul Chaturvedi, Stephanie shares her unconventional path into the industry, and how a mission-driven, science-led investment strategy has guided RTW's approach across public markets, private deals, and company creation. Stephanie reflects on the evolution of biotech financing, why GLP-1 drugs are just getting started, and how RTW is preparing for changes in U.S. healthcare policy. She also unpacks how the firm sources opportunities, evaluates risk, and sticks to long-term conviction even in volatile markets. For Stephanie, great biotech investing starts with deep research, strong science, and a relentless focus on patient outcomes. Whether you're an investor, operator, or simply curious about the future of medicine, this conversation is packed with insights on building bold bets—and the staying power behind them. Biography: Stephanie leads a team at RTW overseeing business development, strategic partnerships, communications, and investor relations. Her background in investment banking and expertise in financial markets has helped position the firm as both a partner to life sciences companies and a steward of investors' capital. Stephanie also manages RTW's relationships with key partners including banks, academic institutions, corporations, investors, and NGOs. She has led the firm's entry into the UK and European markets and serves as a director of the RTW Biotech Opportunities Ltd, a publicly traded investment fund listed on the London Stock Exchange. Prior to joining RTW, she served as director at Valhalla Capital Advisors, a macro and commodity investment manager. Stephanie also worked in the New York and London offices of Lehman Brothers, where she advised on various Merger & Acquisitions, IPOs, and capital market financing transactions with a focus on cross-border transactions for the firm's global corporate clients. Stephanie graduated with honors from Columbia University and also received a Master's Degree from the Columbia Graduate School of Journalism. She serves as president of the RTW Foundation; and co-chair of Council of the New York Philharmonic.

Synopsis: Building in biotech isn't for the faint of heart—especially during a market downturn. But that's exactly when Steve Tregay, Managing Partner at Mission BioCapital, thrives. A seasoned entrepreneur and founder of Forma Therapeutics, Steven has navigated biotech's toughest cycles—and emerged stronger each time. Hosted by Rahul Chaturvedi, this conversation dives into what it really takes to launch and scale biotech companies: from mastering the evolution of the CEO role to raising nearly $900M through strategic partnerships, to knowing when it's time to pass the torch. Steve also shares how Mission BioCapital is rewriting the playbook for early-stage innovation through its Platinum Program, offering $500K and lab access to science founders ready to launch bold new ideas. Real talk, real strategies, and a blueprint for building lasting biotech companies—especially when its hardest. Biography: Steve Tregay, PhD is a Managing General Partner based in our Cambridge office. He focuses on new therapeutics investments with a particular emphasis on company creation opportunities as well as on overall management of the firm. Within the Mission BioCapital portfolio, he is currently founding CEO and board member of Arclight Therapeutics, LLC, a founding board member at Jupiter BioVentures LLC, and has board roles at Vedere Bio and Nocion Therapeutics. In addition, Steve serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors at LabCentral. He is a Harvard Blavatnik Biomedical Accelerator Advisory Committee member and is a member of the board of advisors for the non-profit Life Sciences Cares. Previously, Steve was the Founder and CEO of FORMA Therapeutics. Additional roles held prior to his engagement at FORMA include Managing Director for the Novartis Venture Fund and Executive Director & Head of Strategic Alliances for Oncology, Ophthalmology and Technologies at the Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research. Prior to Novartis, he held roles in research and business development at Array BioPharma. Steve received his doctoral and Master's degrees in organic chemistry from Harvard University and a Bachelor's from Davidson College.

Synopsis: In this episode of Biotech2050, host Rahul Chaturvedi sits down with Neil F. McFarlane, President and CEO of Zevra Therapeutics, to explore his unique leadership journey from military nurse to biotech executive. Neil shares reflections from his time at Genzyme and UCB, insights on running a rare disease-focused biotech, and the art of mission-driven leadership. He dives into Zevra's recent therapeutic milestones, regulatory strategies, and the importance of reflection in high-stakes environments. This conversation offers powerful takeaways for anyone navigating biotech leadership, board management, or rare disease innovation. Biography: Neil F. McFarlane took the reins as President and CEO of Zevra Therapeutics, a commercial-stage rare disease therapeutics company, in October 2023, bringing with him a wealth of experience in the biopharma industry and specific expertise in neurological and rare diseases. Before joining Zevra, he served on the board of Collegium Pharmaceutical Inc. from 2022 to 2024 and was the CEO of Adamas Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company developing treatments for neurological diseases, from 2019 until its acquisition by Supernus Pharmaceuticals in 2021. Prior to Adamas, Mr. McFarlane was Chief Operating Officer at Retrophin, Inc. (now Travere Therapeutics, Inc.), from 2016 to 2019, where he managed day-to-day operations. He also held roles of increasing responsibility at UCB, Inc., Genzyme Corporation (now Sanofi), and Sangstat Medical Corporation, which was acquired by Genzyme.

Synopsis: How do you build a biotech company that disrupts drug discovery and delivers real impact? In this episode of Biotech 2050, host Rahul Chaturvedi speaks with Raj Devraj, President & CEO of Rectify Pharmaceuticals and Venture Partner at Atlas Venture. Raj shares his journey from big pharma to biotech entrepreneurship, the science behind Rectify's groundbreaking approach to drugging membrane proteins, and how his team is tackling rare hepatobiliary diseases with small-molecule therapies. He also dives deep into biotech innovation, smart capital strategy, M&A trends, and the power of hiring the right talent. Whether you're a biotech founder, investor, or science enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights on building, funding, and scaling a biotech startup in today's competitive landscape. Biography: Rajesh (Raj) Devraj, Ph.D., is President and Chief Executive Officer of Rectify Pharma and a Venture Partner at Atlas Venture. Throughout his career, he has been focused on creating and building groundbreaking biotech companies. Prior to Rectify, Raj co-founded Disarm Therapeutics with Atlas and served as its Chief Scientific Officer prior to its acquisition. Before Disarm, he served as Chief Scientific Officer of Atlas-founded Padlock Therapeutics. Prior to his tenure at Atlas, Raj served in senior executive roles at Euclises & Deciphera Pharmaceuticals and at Jubilant Life Sciences. In addition, Raj spent 14 years in positions of increasing responsibility with Pfizer Global R&D and the legacy Pharmacia and Searle companies. Raj also serves on the boards of directors for several biotech companies. Over a 25-year career in large pharma and biotech, Raj has led discovery, early clinical development, and strategic planning teams that have advanced multiple candidates into clinical trials for refractory cancers, autoimmune diseases, IPF, diabetic nephropathy, COPD, and pain. Raj received his B.S. in Pharmacy from the University of Mumbai, and Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry from Duquesne University.

Synopsis: Host Rahul Chaturvedi welcomes back Rachel Haurwitz, President & CEO of Caribou Biosciences, for a deep dive into the future of CRISPR-based genome editing and its transformative impact on cell therapy. As a pioneer in the field, Rachel shares the evolution of off-the-shelf CAR T therapies and how Caribou Biosciences is tackling some of the biggest challenges in biotech. With four ongoing Phase 1 trials in lymphoma, multiple myeloma, AML, and lupus, Caribou is leading the charge in making CAR T therapies more scalable, accessible, and cost-effective. Rachel also discusses Caribou's journey from a private startup to a publicly traded company, the role of strategic partnerships like Pfizer's equity investment, and how biotech companies can navigate today's uncertain funding landscape. She reflects on lessons from co-founding Caribou at just 26, the evolution of biotech entrepreneurship, and why raising more capital than you think you need is crucial. Plus, she shares her perspective on leadership, industry trends, and the importance of diversity in biotech, as seen during JPMorgan's ‘Pink Tuesday' movement. From cutting-edge science to strategic decision-making, this episode is packed with insights for biotech professionals, investors, and anyone fascinated by the future of gene editing and cell therapy. Biography: Rachel is a co-founder of Caribou Biosciences and has been its president and chief executive officer and a director since the company's inception in 2011. Rachel is an inventor on patents and patent applications covering multiple CRISPR-based technologies, and has co-authored several scientific papers in high-impact journals characterizing CRISPR-Cas systems. In 2014, she was named by Forbes Magazine to the “30 Under 30” list in Science and Healthcare, and in 2016, Fortune Magazine named her to the “40 Under 40” list of the most influential young people in business. In 2018, the Association for Women in Science recognized Rachel with the annual Next Generation Award. She serves on the board of directors for Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO). Rachel earned an AB in biological sciences from Harvard College and a PhD in molecular and cell biology from the University of California, Berkeley.

Synopsis: In this thought-provoking episode of Biotech 2050, host Alok Tayi sits down with Liam Killingstad, Member at Finiam Investments, to unpack the growing influence of family offices in biotech. Driven by his own family's experience with rare cancers, Liam shares how that journey sparked Finiam's deep dive into biotech investing and the co-creation of companies like Khora Therapeutics. From the untapped power of family offices to the strategies they use to enter high-stakes sectors like biotech, Liam offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how mission-driven capital is shaping the future of healthcare innovation. Biography: Liam Killingstad is an experienced finance and operations professional in the biopharma, healthcare, and investment sectors. As Co-Founder and Senior Vice President of Finance & Operations at KHORA Therapeutics, Liam works closely with the C-suite to drive strategic initiatives, including the development of multi-asset portfolio construction and complex financial model building in support of executing oncology-focused asset acquisitions across global markets. Prior to KHORA, Liam served as Chief of Staff at SHEPHERD Health, a precision oncology diagnostics company where he played a pivotal role in securing bridge financing, managing investor relations, and establishing strategic partnerships, including joint ventures that expanded SHEPHERD's precision diagnostics capabilities. He was also instrumental in advocating for federal legislation to improve access to molecular diagnostics for cancer patients. Liam's financial expertise was honed during his time as an investment banking associate at Goldman Sachs, where he managed transactions exceeding $2 billion in the renewable energy and infrastructure sectors. He has a proven track record of structuring complex financial models, leading investor roadshows, and crafting innovative financing solutions for high-impact projects. In addition, Liam serves as Operating Partner at Finiam Investments, a European-based family office. He leads due diligence efforts for investments across biotech, digital health, cleantech, and media, supporting the portfolio with strategic planning, financial modeling, and capital formation. Liam holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics, graduating magna cum laude from Case Western Reserve University, where he was a varsity baseball captain and recognized for academic excellence. Born and raised in Germany and various other European cities, Liam brings a global perspective to his work and leadership in life sciences and finance.

Synopsis: Host Alok Tayi sits down with Clare Terlouw, Head of Ventures at LifeArc Ventures, to explore biotech investing from an LP perspective. Clare shares her unique journey—from physiotherapy to investment banking and, ultimately, leading venture investments at a medical charity. The conversation delves into LifeArc's role in bridging the funding gap for biotech innovation, the challenges of attracting LP capital, and the future of biotech investing. If you're curious about how a medical charity strategically deploys capital while fueling scientific breakthroughs, this episode is a must-listen! Biography: Clare Terlouw is Head of LifeArc Ventures, responsible for LifeArc's portfolio of direct and LP investments across the life sciences sector. The venture investment fund focuses on early stage life sciences companies at seed to Series A, with significant follow-on investment reserved for successful portfolio companies. Clare has significant expertise in funding innovative life sciences companies in the private and public markets. She was previously Head of Corporate Development at Syncona Investment Management Ltd, a FTSE250 healthcare investment trust which builds and invests in life science companies, and has more than 15 years of biotech and healthcare financing experience as a UK investment banker at Nomura, Numis Securities and Peel Hunt. Clare was a physiotherapist in Canada prior to moving into finance. Clare is a board member of the UK Biotechnology Industry Association and director of a number of venture-backed companies.

Synopsis: Venture capital is evolving, and so is biotech. In this episode of Biotech 2050, host Alok Tayi, CEO and co-founder of VibeBio, sits down with Alex Bangash, Founder of Transpose, an investment firm backing both startups and funds. With over 20 years of experience in venture investing, Alex shares his unconventional journey from engineering to investing and how his unique perspective has shaped his approach to funding. He breaks down the shifting startup landscape, the critical role of LPs in biotech, and why AI is a game-changer for both tech and life sciences. Alex also offers sharp insights into what it takes to build a successful venture fund today and the structural shifts that are redefining the industry. Whether you're a founder, investor, or biotech enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on navigating the future of venture capital. Biography: Alex Bangash is the Founder of Transpose Platform, an anchor fund for the most disruptive venture funds of this decade. He is also the co-founder and former CEO of Trusted Insight, a machine learning–driven platform that hosts the world's largest network of institutional investors. Prior to TI Platform, Alex managed capital for clients at premier endowments, foundations, family offices, insurance firms, sovereign wealth funds, and pension funds since 2003. He has helped invest over $2 billion in 50 funds with a track record of investing over $1 billion in 50+ funds for institutional investors with an IRR of 30%+ and a 2x NAV. He advised the first checks in Accel, First Round Capital, Founders Fund, Emergence, Y Combinator, Khosla, SaaStr, Initialized, Crystal Towers, and Baseline. Earlier in his career, Alex was an engineer and executive at AT&T, Lucent Technologies, Bell Labs, and GE. Alex holds an MBA from the Wharton School (where he is a frequent guest lecturer); an M.Eng. in Operations Research from Cornell, and a BS in Computer Science, English, and Economics from Cornell.

Synopsis: In this special episode of Biotech 2050, Host Alok Tayi, CEO and Co-Founder of VibeBio, delves into the world of neurodivergent entrepreneurship and impact investing with guest Chad Belinsky, founder of AtypicalPath.org. Chad shares his inspiring journey from running a transformative B2B materials company to establishing Atypical Path—a nonprofit dedicated to supporting neurodiverse individuals, fostering mentorship, and creating impact-driven investment opportunities. Together, they explore the unique perspectives neurodivergent individuals bring to innovation, the importance of self-awareness, and how capital can drive meaningful societal change. A must-listen for those interested in mission-oriented investment, entrepreneurship, and the untapped potential of neurodivergent talent. Biography: “Dumb” dyslexic, awkward aspie kid, empowered by love & tech, transformed himself and a bootstrapped family material science B2B into a 20 year overnight success with PE platform exit. Now stewarding the proceeds & sharing forward learnings through developing AtypicalPath.org , an entrepreneurial nonprofit community where accomplished neuro-atypical earnest entrepreneurs inspire each other to compound social & economic good, while sharing forward opportunity for the next generation to thrive, through shared wisdom, contacts, grants & impact investment.

Synopsis: In this episode of Biotech 2050, host Alok Tayi explores the world of biotech venture capital with Narayan Chowdhury, Co-Founder of Franklin Park. As a key player in funding the next wave of biotech breakthroughs, Narayan shares how limited partners (LPs) navigate risk, identify high-potential biotech funds, and decide where to allocate billions in capital. Discover why biotech investing is different from tech VC, the growing role of AI in drug development, and how emerging biotech hubs are shaping the future of innovation. Whether you're a founder, investor, or just biotech-curious, this episode unveils the strategies, challenges, and untapped opportunities that fuel the industry. Biography: At Franklin Park, Narayan is responsible for the analysis and evaluation of private equity investment opportunities, monitoring clients' portfolios and conducting industry research. He is also involved in the development and implementation of Franklin Park's technology platform, and regularly interacts with clients on investment and portfolio matters. Prior to Franklin Park, Narayan worked with Hamilton Lane and Public Financial Management. He is a CFA Charterholder and a member of the CFA Institute. Narayan received a B.A. in Mathematics and Economics from Bucknell University.

Synopsis: Join host Alok Tayi as he welcomes David Meeker, CEO of Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, for an inspiring conversation on the transformative journey of rare disease biotech. David shares his incredible path from practicing physician to biotech visionary, recounting his experiences at Genzyme, where he helped shape the rare disease business model and set the stage for a wave of life-changing innovations. In this episode, David dives deep into the breakthroughs and hurdles of developing therapies for rare diseases, the pivotal role of patient-centric approaches, and how advancements in precision medicine are reshaping treatment for conditions like genetic obesity. He also explores the evolving relationship between biotech and big pharma, the critical impact of regulatory decisions, and the essential elements of building a thriving biotech company today. Don't miss this captivating discussion packed with actionable insights, industry wisdom, and a look at the future of rare disease therapeutics. Biography: Dr. David Meeker, a member of Rhythm's Board of Directors since 2015 and Chairman of the Board since 2017, was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company in July 2020. Most recently, he served as President and CEO of KSQ Therapeutics for approximately three years. Previously, David was the Executive Vice President and Head of Sanofi Genzyme, the specialty-care global business unit of Sanofi that focused on rare diseases, multiple sclerosis, oncology, and immunology. He joined Genzyme in 1994 as Medical Director and, over the course of his tenure, served the company as Vice President of Medical Affairs, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Executive Officer. He led Genzyme's commercial organization and global market access functions and managed the launch of several treatments for rare genetic diseases, including Aldurazyme®, Fabrazyme® and Myozyme®. Prior to his tenure with Genzyme, David was Director of the Pulmonary Critical Care Fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic and an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Ohio State University. Dr. Meeker earned his MD from the University of Vermont Medical School and completed the advanced management program at Harvard Business School.

Synopsis: Host Rahul Chaturvedi leads an insightful conversation with Dr. Kristin Yarema, President and CEO of Poseida Therapeutics. Kristin shares the inspiring journey of her career, from her roots in science to leadership roles in big pharma, culminating in her move to biotech entrepreneurship. She reflects on pivotal experiences at Novartis and Amgen, her deep-seated passion for oncology and autoimmune diseases, and the exciting leap into the field of cell therapy. Kristin unveils Poseida's innovative genetic engineering toolkit and the company's advancements in allogeneic cell therapies, spotlighting their potential to revolutionize treatment for conditions like multiple myeloma. She delves into the challenges and opportunities within the cell therapy space, underscoring Poseida's strategic partnerships and commitment to transformative solutions. With candid reflections on the lessons learned as a first-time CEO, Kristin offers valuable insights on fostering cohesive company culture and shares career advice for aspiring biotech professionals. An essential listen for anyone drawn to biotech innovation, the future of cell therapy, and leadership strategies at the intersection of cutting-edge technology and patient care. Biography: Dr. Yarema was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Poseida and named to the Board of Directors in January 2024. She joined Poseida as President, Cell Therapy in April 2023, bringing extensive biopharmaceutical experience in oncology and allogeneic T cell immunotherapy. Prior to Poseida she served as Chief Commercial Officer at Atara Biotherapeutics, where she led the commercialization of EBVALLO™️, which became the world's first marketed allogeneic T cell therapy after receiving regulatory approval in Europe for the treatment of a rare lymphoma. Previously Dr. Yarema held a series of U.S. and global commercial leadership roles at Amgen, including most recently Vice President & Therapeutic Area Head for Global Product Strategy & Commercial Innovation in Hematology-Oncology. Earlier in her career, Dr. Yarema worked at Novartis and McKinsey & Company. Dr. Yarema holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from University of California, Berkeley and is a graduate of Stanford University, where she earned a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and a B.A. in English. She is an officer and member of the board of directors of the Alliance for Regenerative Medicine and serves on the board of directors of the Celiac Disease Foundation.

Synopsis: In this insightful conversation on Biotech2050, host Rahul Chaturvedi sits down with Bharatt Chowrira, CEO, and Eric Elenko, Co-Founder and President of PureTech Health. They explore the company's pioneering R&D model and how it reshapes drug development by focusing on solving specific problems rather than pushing predefined solutions. Bharatt and Eric share their professional journeys and key insights, emphasizing the importance of simplicity and unwavering commitment to impactful ideas. The episode delves into the story behind Karuna Therapeutics, highlighting the challenges of obtaining funding and skepticism from the industry before its success with a groundbreaking schizophrenia drug. Bharatt and Eric underline the importance of patient-centered innovation and reflect on the lessons learned, including overcoming obstacles with persistence. They also discuss the need for more efficient pathways in drug development and share a glimpse into PureTech's upcoming projects. Biography: Bharatt Chowrira, PhD, JD, is the chief executive officer and a member of the board of directors at PureTech. Dr. Chowrira has been a member of the PureTech management team since March 2017, leading various departments including Operations, Finance and Business Development. Dr. Chowrira plays a key role in the Founded Entity fundraisings and provide strategic guidance as a Board member to many Founded Entities, including co-founding Seaport Therapeutics. Prior to joining PureTech, he held various leadership roles including Chief Executive Officer, President, Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel in multiple biotech companies over the past 30+ years, including Auspex Pharmaceuticals Inc., which was acquired by Teva Pharmaceuticals for $3.5 billion and Sirna Therapeutics that was acquired by Merck for $1.1 billion and as a Vice President at Merck & Co. Dr. Chowrira received a JD from the University of Denver's Sturm College of Law, a PhD in molecular biology from the University of Vermont College of Medicine, an MS in molecular biology from Illinois State University and a BS in microbiology from the UAS, Bangalore, India. Eric Elenko, PhD, is the president at PureTech where he has led the development of a number of programs, including three that have received US FDA approvals (EndeavorRx, Plenity and Cobenfy). Dr. Elenko plays a key role in the Founded Entity drug discovery and fundraisings, including co-founding Seaport Therapeutics. Prior to joining PureTech, Dr. Elenko was a consultant with McKinsey and Company where he advised senior executives of both Fortune 500 and specialty pharmaceutical companies on a range of issues such as product licensing, mergers and acquisitions, research and development strategy and marketing. Dr. Elenko received his BA in biology from Swarthmore College and his PhD in biomedical sciences from the University of California, San Diego.

Synopsis: Rob Williamson, CEO of Triumvira, joins Biotech 2050 host, Rahul Chaturvedi, to discuss his dynamic career from economics to biotech, tackling the volatile capital markets, and navigating high-stakes decisions in cell therapy. He shares insights on therapeutic developments in cell therapy, the pressures of solid tumor research, and the evolving biotech ecosystem. A deep dive into biotech board dynamics, funding strategies, and the potential of AI in healthcare, Rob offers invaluable lessons and forward-thinking perspectives on life sciences and patient care innovation. Biography: Robert F. Williamson, III has been active in building biotechnology companies and shareholder value for over two decades. He currently is the President and COO of Triumvira Immunologics. Previously, he was the CBO of OncoMyx, an oncolytic virus company, and CEO of BioTheryX, a protein degradation therapeutics company, raising a $100M crossover round and preparing the company for an IPO. Prior to BioTheryX, Mr. Williamson served as CEO of both PharmAkea and ATXCo, oncology and fibrosis companies financed through a partnership with Celgene, until PharmAkea's acquisition by Galecto and ATXCo's acquisition by Blade Therapeutics. Prior, Mr. Williamson was CEO of Arriva Pharmaceuticals, President and COO of Eos Biotechnology, which he sold to Protein Design Labs, and COO of DoubleTwist, Inc. through its acquisition by Merck and Hitachi. Mr. Williamson also serves as a director and adviser for foundations, private, and public companies. Notably, Mr. Williamson served as an early Director of Pharmasset, Inc., where he helped finance, grow, and advance the company into the public markets and through its acquisition by Gilead in 2011 for $11 billion. Earlier, Mr. Williamson was a Partner with The Boston Consulting Group and a Research Assistant for the Federal Reserve Board. He received a BA in economics from Pomona College and an MBA from Stanford.

Biotech2050 Host, Rahul Chaturvedi, engages with Gene Mack, Interim CEO and CFO of Gain Therapeutics, as he shares his journey from aspiring neurosurgeon to biotech leader. Gene reflects on his career shift from clinical research to Wall Street and eventually operational roles in biotech. He details the development of Gain's lead asset, GT02287, which targets Parkinson's disease by aiming for disease modification rather than symptom management. Gene also discusses the challenges of biotech leadership, running clinical trials, and navigating the financial landscape, highlighting the dynamic intersection of science, business, and innovation in neurodegenerative diseases.

Synopsis: Discover how Bitterroot Bio is poised to revolutionize cardiovascular health in this captivating conversation between host Rahul Chaturvedi and CEO Pavan Cheruvu. Pavan opens up about his inspiring journey from engineering to leading a biotech company at the forefront of cardio-immunology. Learn how his visionary leadership is driving innovative solutions to combat atherosclerosis—one of the world's deadliest diseases. Delve into Bitterroot Bio's cutting-edge approach, blending scientific breakthroughs with bold strategies to create life-saving treatments while overcoming the hurdles of drug development in an ever-changing biotech landscape. Biography: Dr. Pavan K. Cheruvu is the President and Chief Executive Officer at Bitterroot Bio. Prior to joining Bitterroot, Dr. Cheruvu was an early member of the executive team at Roivant Sciences and served as President and CEO of Sio Gene Therapies. Over the course of his career, he has worked with multiple biotechnology and medical device companies, as well as in the public sector, with focus areas spanning neurology, oncology, women's health, and cardiology. Dr. Cheruvu previously worked as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company, where he focused on R&D strategy and transformation for biopharmaceutical firms across North America, Asia, and Europe. Dr. Cheruvu holds a BS in biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, and chemistry from Duke University and an MSc in computer science from the University of Oxford, where he was a Rhodes Scholar. He went on to earn an MD from Harvard Medical School and MIT. Dr. Cheruvu completed his residency in internal medicine at Johns Hopkins Hospital and continued his training as a clinical fellow in cardiovascular medicine at the University of California, San Francisco. He currently resides in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife and daughter. He serves on the Executive Leadership Team of the American Heart Association's Research Roundtable, and the Board of Advisors of Life Sciences Cares Bay Area.

Synopsis: In this episode of Biotech 2050, Alex Martin, CEO of Abcuro, sits down with host Rahul Chaturvedi to share his inspiring journey from aspiring actor to biotech trailblazer. Alex reveals how his unique background shaped his leadership approach as he drives Abcuro's groundbreaking work on Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM), a rare muscle disease with no current treatments. He offers valuable insights for biotech CEOs on navigating the complexities of fundraising, building mission-driven teams, and fostering productive relationships with boards. Tune in to discover how Alex is leading Abcuro to the forefront of biotech innovation and making a profound impact on patient lives. Biography: Alex Martin brings over 30 years of experience building companies and closing transactions in the biopharmaceutical industry. He was most recently Chief Executive Officer of Palladio Biosciences, a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company which was acquired by Centessa Pharmaceuticals (CNTA), and previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Realm Therapeutics (RLM) which was acquired by ESSA Pharma (EPIX). He was also Chief Operating Officer of Intercept Pharmaceuticals (ICPT), and Chief Finance Officer of BioXell (BXLN) which was acquired by Cosmo Pharmaceuticals (COPN). He began his career at SmithKline Beecham Pharmaceuticals where he held roles of increasing responsibility in marketing and business development and later joined Novartis as Vice President, Global Business Development & Licensing. Alex is an active coach and mentor to other senior executives, and a guest lecturer at Wharton and Columbia Business School on biotech, entrepreneurship, and raising capital. He holds a BA from Cornell University and an MBA from Harvard.

Synopsis: Abe Ceesay, CEO of Rapport Therapeutics, sits down with host Rahul Chaturvedi to reveal how precision neuroscience is driving revolutionary treatments for neurological disorders. They explore Rapport's cutting-edge lead program targeting focal epilepsy and discuss the groundbreaking advancements that are reshaping the landscape of drug development. Abe also shares his dynamic leadership journey, offering insights into the biotech industry's future and how innovative approaches are delivering life-changing treatments. Don't miss this powerful discussion on the future of precision medicine and the hope it brings to patients with neurological conditions. Biography: Abe brings nearly two decades of biopharmaceutical industry experience to Rapport. He served as President of Cerevel Therapeutics from May 2021 through February 2023, and was previously CEO of Tiburio Therapeutics, where he built a fully integrated company that led to the investigational new drug enablement for a rare neuroendocrine tumor. Prior to joining Tiburio, Mr. Ceesay held positions including Chief Operating Officer at scPharmaceuticals, Head of Commercial at Keryx Biopharmaceuticals, Vice President of Marketing at Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, and roles of increasing responsibility at Sanofi, formerly Genzyme. Mr. Ceesay serves as Chairman of the Board for Life Science Cares and on the Board of Trustees at The Museum of Science in Boston. He earned his bachelor's degree from Ithaca College and Master of Business Administration from Suffolk University's Sawyer School of Management.

Synopsis: Explore the forefront of biotech innovation as host Rahul Chaturvedi interviews Dr. Dave Bearss, Co-Founder & CEO of Halia Therapeutics, in this engaging episode of Biotech 2050. Dr. Bearss shares the story behind Halia's pioneering genetic discoveries and their mission to tackle Alzheimer's disease. Learn about the science driving breakthrough therapies that target neuroinflammation, offering hope in the fight against neurodegenerative disorders. Packed with insights and inspiration, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of healthcare and biotech innovation. Biography: Dr. David J. Bearss, a serial entrepreneur and pharmaceutical innovator, has over two decades of experience spanning academic and industrial roles. His expertise lies at the intersection of structure-based small-molecule drug discovery and the utilization of genetic model systems for drug discovery. Dr. Bearss's career is marked by significant achievements, with a strong foundation in translational research focused on drug advancement to the clinic and using genetic markers for predictive drug sensitivity. Notably, Dr. Bearss has discovered 16 compounds that have successfully navigated from discovery in the lab to IND into clinical development. His entrepreneurial experience is evident through his roles as the co-founder of eight biotechnology companies. More importantly, his unwavering commitment to advancing novel drug development truly sets him apart. Before taking on his role as chief scientific officer at Halia in January 2021 and assuming the CEO position in March 2022, Dr. Bearss served as the CEO of Tolero Pharmaceuticals, an organization later acquired by Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma in 2017. His tenure as chief scientific officer at Montigen Pharmaceuticals, followed by its acquisition by SuperGen Inc., demonstrates his dedication to driving early-stage drug discovery and development. At SuperGen, he continued to develop his expertise in these critical areas. Dr. Bearss's academic career is equally impressive. It led to his founding role as the Center for Investigational Therapeutics Co-Director at the Huntsman Cancer Institute. He also held academic positions as an Associate Professor in the Department of Oncological Sciences at the University of Utah and as an Associate Professor of Physiology and Developmental Biology at Brigham Young University, demonstrating his deep knowledge and expertise in these fields. Dr. Bearss's academic career began with a Ph.D. in cell biology from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, Texas, and a post-doctoral fellowship at the Institute for Drug Development at the Cancer Therapy and Research Center also in Texas. He has won several awards for his entrepreneurial and scientific achievements, including the Utah Governor's Medal of Science and BIO Utah Entrepreneur of the Year.

Synopsis: In this episode, host Rahul Chaturvedi interviews Sarah Boyce, President & CEO of Avidity Biosciences, as she shares her dynamic journey from big pharma to leading groundbreaking advancements in RNA therapeutics. Sarah delves into overcoming drug delivery challenges, the transformative potential of genetic medicine, and Avidity's mission to redefine rare disease treatments. She also offers candid insights on leadership, the importance of cultivating a strong company culture, and balancing personal well-being for long-term success. This episode is essential for those eager to explore the future of biotech and the next wave of medical innovation. Biography: Sarah Boyce joined Avidity as President and Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors in October 2019. She has more than 25 years of global leadership experience in both pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies. Sarah's tenure at Avidity has been marked by transformative leadership, starting with the company's successful Series C funding round and IPO. She continues to drive the company's evolution from a research and development entity to a biopharmaceutical company through the advancement of three therapies into clinical development and the expansion of the broad utility of the company's proprietary RNA technology. Prior to joining Avidity, Sarah held the position of president and a member of the board of directors of Akcea Therapeutics. She previously held executive roles in business development and global operations for leading life sciences companies including Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Forest Laboratories, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Novartis Oncology and Roche. Sarah was named a Healthcare Technology Report Top 25 Biotech CEO in 2022 and has been named one of Fiercest Women in Life Sciences. Sarah currently serves as a member of the board of directors at OmniAb, Inc., Contineum Therapeutics, Inc., and Abcuro, Inc. Sarah holds a BSc (Hons) degree in microbiology from the University of Manchester, England.

Synopsis: Step into the future of biotech as host Rahul Chaturvedi delves into an exclusive conversation with Fabrice Chouraqui, CEO of Cellarity, as he unveils the groundbreaking ways AI is revolutionizing drug discovery. Fabrice will take you behind the scenes of Cellarity's trailblazing approach, revealing how their pioneering technology is accelerating drug development and creating a synergy-driven powerhouse. Tune in for a front-row seat to the next era of biotech innovation and gain exclusive insights from a leader at the cutting edge of the industry. Biography: Fabrice Chouraqui is CEO-partner of Flagship Pioneering and CEO of Cellarity. Cellarity is a Flagship-backed company developing game-changing medicines that are unreachable with traditional methods of drug discovery. By harnessing the power of AI and single-cell omics data, Cellarity's approach allows them to see disease biology others can't. The Cellarity platform links biology and chemistry to multi-omics data and enables the design of medicines against cellular dysfunction – an approach applicable to a vast array of diseases to offer new hope to patients in need. Fabrice is an experienced global pharmaceutical executive with a passion for driving the progress of medical sciences and bringing innovation to patients. He has deep experience across the business spectrum, from R&D to commercial leadership, business development and investor communications. Fabrice has led the launch of breakthrough treatments in a number of areas, including oncology, immunology, neuroscience and cardiovascular. Prior to Cellarity, Fabrice was president of the U.S. Pharmaceuticals business for Novartis, where he was credited with transforming the organization to adapt to a new market environment and turning around its performance. He also represented Novartis on the board of BIO. Fabrice earned an MBA from INSEAD in France and a Doctorate in Pharmacy, a Post-Graduate Degree in Quality Assurance of Medicines, and a MSc in Biological and Medicinal Sciences from University of Paris V. Born in Paris, France, he is fluent in English and French.

Get ready for an insightful conversation as host Rahul Chaturvedi connects with John Alam, CEO of CervoMed, to uncover the revolutionary advancements transforming dementia treatment, with a spotlight on Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB). John shares his remarkable journey from practicing medicine to leading cutting-edge biotech innovations, shedding light on the bold breakthroughs in neurodegenerative research and the intense, high-stakes world of clinical trials. This episode reveals how CervoMed is not just advancing dementia care but redefining it, proving that resilience and bold thinking are the keys to success in biotech. Biography: John Alam serves as the Chief Executive Officer at CervoMed, co-founding the company (formerly known as EIP Pharma) in 2014. John is an industry leader in translational medicine with over 30 years of experience creating value to help build companies through clinical development success. Until May 2014, he was therapeutic area head for diseases of aging at Sanofi, where he led all discovery and development activities directed at Alzheimer's disease, as well as a number of other age-related diseases including sarcopenia/frailty, osteoarthritis, chronic pain and many others. From 1997 to 2008, he held positions of increasing responsibility at Vertex Pharmaceuticals, including Chief Medical Officer and Executive Vice President, Medicines Development. At Vertex, he played major roles in the development of novel innovative medicines for HIV, Hepatitis C and Cystic Fibrosis. Prior to Vertex, Alam led clinical development of Avonex (interferon beta-1a) for multiple sclerosis at Biogen from 1991 to 1997. John is a member of the board of directors of the Alliance for Aging Research (AAR), a Washington, D.C. based non-profit organization dedicated to promoting innovation to address the healthcare needs of older Americans. He received a MD from Northwestern University School of Medicine and a BS in Chemical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In addition, he completed an internal medicine residency at Brigham and Women's Hospital and a post-doctoral fellowship at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Renée Aguiar-Lucander, CEO of Calliditas Therapeutics, appears on this insightful episode of Biotech 2050 with host Rahul Chaturvedi. Renée shares her unconventional journey from investment banking to biotech leadership, underscoring the crucial role of capital markets and regulatory strategies. The discussion explores the unique challenges of developing treatments for rare diseases, strategic decisions on indication selection, and the complexities of managing a global team. Highlighting the importance of continuous learning and curiosity, Renée provides invaluable insights into navigating the fast-paced biotech industry. Tune in to discover the strategic and operational nuances of leading a successful biotech company in today's dynamic environment. Biography: CEO since 2017. Before joining Calliditas, Renée Aguiar-Lucander was a Partner and COO of Omega Fund Management, an international venture capital company focused on investments within the life science sector. Before that, she served as a Partner in the venture capital group 3i Group plc in London, where she managed the publicly quoted assets and was co-head of the global healthcare and technology portfolio. Prior to this, Renée Aguiar-Lucander was the European Group Head and Managing Director at a global investment bank and has more than 12 years' experience in corporate finance. Prior to her career in investment banking, she was the Head of European Sales and Marketing in a company focused on the sale of software for financial services. Renée took up BA in Finance from Stockholm School of Economics and finished her MBA from INSEAD.

Synopsis: In this engaging episode, host, Rahul Chaturvedi welcomes Marshall Fordyce, Founder and CEO of Vera Therapeutics, to discuss his transformative journey from physician to biotech entrepreneur. Marshall shares the story behind Vera Therapeutics' strategic pivot to focus on IG nephropathy and their development of atacicept, a promising B-cell modulator. He provides valuable insights into the biotech industry's landscape, emphasizing the importance of scientific rigor, adaptability, and maintaining a lean, effective operating model. Marshall's enthusiasm for advancing autoimmune disease treatments and his advice for aspiring entrepreneurs make this a must-listen episode. Biography: Dr. Fordyce brings more than 15 years' experience leading teams in drug discovery, development, clinical translation, and commercialization of new treatments. Before founding Vera, Fordyce was the founder and CEO of gene-editing company Trucode Gene Repair, Inc., having previously served as an entrepreneur in residence at Kleiner Perkins Caufield and Byers. Earlier in his career, Fordyce served as Senior Director of clinical research at Gilead Sciences, Inc., where he contributed to seven new drug approvals and served as project lead for Gilead's TAF/GENVOYA development program. With subspecialty training in infectious disease from Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Fordyce was previously Chief Resident at NYU Bellevue and spent two years as a translational research fellow at Rockefeller University. Fordyce currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Albert and Mary Lasker Foundation. He received his BA from Harvard University and his MD from Harvard Medical School.

Zandy Forbes, Founder, President, and CEO of MeiraGTx, joins host Rahul Chaturvedi in this compelling episode. Zandy shares her inspiring journey from academia, where she developed a deep interest in molecular biology and genetics, to her significant role in biotech investing, and eventually leading a groundbreaking gene therapy company. She elaborates on Meira's cutting-edge approach to genetic medicines, focusing on the development of innovative therapies for non-inherited diseases. Zandy discusses the unique challenges and opportunities that arise in the biotech sector, shedding light on the strategies Meira employs to navigate this complex landscape. Biography: Alexandria Forbes, Ph.D. is the President and CEO of MeiraGTx (NASDAQ: MGTX). MeiraGTx is a vertically integrated gene therapy company with core capabilities in viral vector design and optimization and gene therapy manufacturing, as well as a potentially transformative gene regulation technology. The company is developing innovative gene therapy products to cost effectively treat a range of serious medical disorders, with clinical programs currently in the eye, salivary gland and CNS. Prior to founding MeiraGTx, Dr. Forbes served as Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations at Kadmon Holdings, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, from September 2013 to April 2015.Before joining the biotech industry, she spent 10 years as a healthcare investor at Sivik Global Partners (Argus Partners) and Meadowvale Partners. At Sivik, Dr. Forbes was responsible for investments in biotechnology, specialty pharmaceuticals and diagnostics public equities and was portfolio manager of the Sivik Global Life Science Fund, a long-biased public markets fund investing in biotechnology companies globally. During her time as a biotechnology investor, Dr. Forbes covered over 300 companies and gained expertise in biotechnology business strategies and clinical drug development as well as a wide range of disease areas. Particular areas of focus included HIV, HCV, diabetes, obesity, autoimmune disorders, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, kidney disease and liver disease. Before entering the hedge fund industry, Dr. Forbes was an academic scientist studying the regulation of stem cell identity and different aspects of embryogeneis. She was a Human Frontiers/Howard Hughes postdoctoral fellow at the Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, where her research focused on cytoplasmic determinants and cell signaling pathways involved in the migration, establishment and maintenance of germ line stem cells in Drosophila melanogaster. Prior to this, Dr. Forbes was a research fellow at Duke University and at the Carnegie Institute at Johns Hopkins University where she studied the role of the hedgehog gene and its signaling pathway in the Drosophila embryo and adult. Dr. Forbes received her Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics from Oxford University, UK and attained a double first degree in Natural Sciences from Cambridge University, UK. Dr. Forbes serves on the Board of Directors of MeiraGTx, and as a Trustee and Director of the Selfridges Group Foundation, the European arm of the Weston Brain Institute, a charity supporting research into neurodegenerative diseases with the aim of speeding the time to the development of disease modifying treatments for these currently intractable diseases, particularly Alzheimer's.

Dive into this episode of Biotech 2050 where host Rahul Chaturvedi interviews Jeb Keiper, CEO of Nimbus Therapeutics. Discover Jeb's fascinating journey from MIT chemist to industry leader, as he shares insights into Nimbus' groundbreaking work in ultra-rare diseases, innovative corporate structure, and strategic capital management. Emphasizing bold risks, team collaboration, and strategic partnerships, Jeb shares valuable insights into biotech's challenges, opportunities, and the future of cancer therapies. Biography: Jeb Keiper, M.S., M.B.A., has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer and as a member of our board of directors since October 2018. He previously served as Chief Business Officer from November 2014 to October 2018 and as Chief Financial Officer from February 2017 to October 2018. Since joining Nimbus, Mr. Keiper has overseen the discovery and development of three programs into clinical testing across a range of indications, over $400M raised in equity funding, executed deals worth over $7B, and the return of over $4B in gains back to equity holders. Prior to joining Nimbus, Mr. Keiper served as the Vice President of Business Development at GSK Oncology (a subsidiary of GlaxoSmithKline plc (NYSE: GSK)) from March 2011 to October 2014, where he was responsible for identifying and concluding several critical collaborations for GSK in Oncology, including the Novartis-GSK Oncology integration, and spent a decade at GSK in various business development leadership roles. Prior to GSK, Mr. Keiper was a consultant at McKinsey & Company starting in September 2000-2002, then September 2004 to 2005, after having started his career as a pharmaceutical chemist at Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) in 1998. Mr. Keiper currently serves as a member of the board of directors at private biotechnology companies Cardurion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and ROME Therapeutics, Inc. Mr. Keiper received two B.S. degrees, one in Chemistry and one in Chemical Engineering, as well as an M.S. in Chemical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and an M.B.A. from the MIT Sloan School of Management with joint program in Biomedical Enterprises with the Harvard Medical School.

Sujal Patel, co-founder and CEO of Nautilus Biotechnology, discusses their innovative work in proteomics and its impact on drug development. Sujal shares his transition from tech to biotech, the formation of Nautilus with Parag Mallick, and their revolutionary approach using multi-affinity probes. The conversation highlights the importance of proteomics in drug discovery, the broad applications of their technology, and the significance of product-market fit and fiscal discipline in building a sustainable business. Biography: Sujal Patel is the co-founder of Nautilus Biotechnology, a life sciences company working to create a platform technology for quantifying and unlocking the complexity of the proteome. Nautilus' mission is to democratize access to the proteome and, in doing so, enable fundamental advancements across human health and medicine. Sujal founded Isilon Systems in 2001, a storage company built for the future of unstructured, file-based data. In 2006, Isilon completed one of the most successful initial public offerings of the year. EMC (since acquired by Dell) acquired Isilon in December 2010 for $2.6 Billion, the largest acquisition in EMC's history. Sujal served as the president of EMC's Isilon Storage Division from the acquisition until November 2012, driving significant revenue growth, market expansion, and organizational scale. Prior to EMC and Isilon, Sujal served in various engineering roles at RealNetworks, Inc., in part as the chief architect behind the company's second-generation core media delivery system. Sujal holds nineteen patents in the areas of storage, networking, and media delivery and five patents for innovations related to the development of Nautilus Biotechnology's technology. He is a well-known speaker on entrepreneurship and has received a variety of industry awards. Currently, Sujal serves on the board of directors at Qumulo and Rainier Scholars and helps direct the philanthropic efforts of his family's foundation. He graduated from the University of Maryland College Park in 1996 with a degree in computer science.

Synopsis: In this episode of Biotech 2050, host Alok Tayi, CEO and co-founder of Vibe Bio, speaks with Dr. Bruce Leuchter, President and CEO of Neurvati Neuroscience. They discuss capital markets, neurology, psychiatry, and Neurvati's work in ultra-rare diseases. Dr. Leuchter shares his journey from clinical training to leadership at Neurvati. The conversation covers the convergence of neurology and psychiatry, advanced technologies in drug development, and addressing unmet medical needs in neuroscience. Join us for insights into the future of biotech and developments in neuroscience. Biography: Dr. Bruce Leuchter brings deep-rooted, wide-ranging experience to his role as President and CEO at Neurvati, spanning neuroscience, clinical neuropsychiatry, biotechnology equity research, healthcare investment banking and entrepreneurship. His expertise captures all aspects of building and leading a neuroscience company, and his experiences have generated deep empathy for the patient journey. Across his many roles in the clinic, industry, and beyond, Dr. Leuchter has maintained a passion for knowledge and has aimed to purposefully apply that knowledge to help patients suffering from diseases of the brain and nervous system. A physician by training and neuropsychiatrist by specialty, Dr. Leuchter completed residency training in Neurology and Psychiatry at New York Presbyterian Hospital and Weill Cornell Medical College and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Leuchter served as Director of Clinical Neuropsychiatry at Weill Cornell Medical College and maintains a voluntary faculty appointment in the Department of Psychiatry. Dr. Leuchter has also held multiple financial services roles including biotechnology equity research at Goldman Sachs, healthcare investment banking at Credits Suisse, and biotechnology mergers and acquisitions at PJT Partners, all of which drive a nuanced understanding of the biotechnology industry and particularly the neuroscience ecosystem. Dr. Leuchter is Co-Founder and Founding Neuropsychiatrist of a digital therapeutics company, Click Therapeutics, which specializes in the treatment of neurological and psychiatric disorders. He serves as a member of the Scientific Advisory Committee for the Daedelus Fund for Innovation at Weill Cornell Medical College, as a member of the Life Science Institute Leadership Council at the University of Michigan, as a member of the Advisory Board at Michigan Drug Discovery, and as a Business Advisory Board member at FOXG1 Research Foundation.

Synopsis: In this episode of BioTech 2050, Ken Keller, President and CEO of Daiichi Sankyo, provides an in-depth look into the company's transformation from a cardiovascular-focused organization to a leader in oncology. He discusses the groundbreaking advancements in antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), particularly highlighting the success of their HER2-targeted therapies. Ken shares his career journey, emphasizing the importance of building a team of passionate individuals who are eager to innovate and make a difference. He also touches on the significance of strategic partnerships in accelerating drug development and ensuring global access to life-saving treatments. The conversation offers valuable insights into the future of cancer therapies and the dynamic landscape of the biotech industry. Biography: Ken Keller is the Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. He is also the Head of the Global Oncology Business responsible for leading the overarching company strategy of ensuring innovative medicines are available to patients with cancer around the world. With more than 30 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Ken has led multi-billion dollar businesses in both U.S. and Europe while working to unify cross-functional teams to create a global infrastructure – enabling the commercial success of Daiichi Sankyo oncology and specialty medicines. Through leadership roles in multiple markets, across cultures and within different healthcare systems, Ken has successfully launched numerous biologic products in therapeutic areas ranging from oncology to bone health to nephrology to inflammatory diseases, transformed businesses, and delivered sustainable revenue and profit growth. With more than 20 years of oncology experience, Ken had a longstanding career at Amgen where he held several leadership roles, with increasing global and commercial responsibility, including Vice President and General Manager, Bone Health Business Unit. Prior to joining Daiichi Sankyo, Ken served as Chief Operating Officer at Spectrum Pharmaceuticals, where he held global responsibility for leading commercial operations, medical and clinical development, regulatory, quality, safety and pharmaceutical operations. Ken is motivated by passion for innovation and compassion for patients, which is at the core of everything he instills within his leadership teams. Developing and coaching high-performing global teams that can have a profound impact on patient lives and leading an organization that is responsible for helping to change the standard of care for the oncology community is a privilege he is incredibly grateful for.

Synopsis: In this episode of Biotech2050, Praveen Tipirneni, CEO of Morphic Therapeutics, shares insights on Morphic's strategic IPO, the rising interest in autoimmune treatments, the journey of their alpha 4 beta 7 program, and maintaining a conservative yet opportunistic approach in biotech. He also discusses the importance of building a strong team, navigating the complex biotech landscape, and the value of enjoying the journey. Biography: Praveen Tipirneni, MD, MBA is Chief Executive Officer of Morphic Therapeutic Inc. Previously, he was Senior Vice President of Corporate Development and Global Strategy at Cubist Pharmaceuticals, a position in which he served from 2002 until the company's acquisition by Merck in 2015. In his time at Cubist, he was a member of the clinical group working on the Cubicin NDA (skin and skin structure infections) and sNDA (Staph. Bacteremia and Endocarditis) teams. He was head of business development since January 2006. Prior to joining Cubist, Dr. Tipirneni worked at Sun Microsystems in corporate strategy, Covad Communications in Corporate Strategy, and Deltagen in business development. He also served time as a 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Dr. Tipirneni received a bachelor's degree from MIT in mechanical engineering and an M. D. from McGill University. After completing his post-graduate residency in Internal Medicine at University of Illinois, Chicago, he received his MBA from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business in healthcare finance.

Synopsis: In this episode of BioTech 2050, Robert Ang, CEO of Vor Bio, shares insights on the current state of cancer therapies and next-gen modalities. He discusses Vor Bio's work on shielded stem cell transplants and CAR T-cell therapies targeting hematologic malignancies like AML and MDS. Robert also talks about his experience serving on boards and emphasizes the importance of core values in shaping organizational culture. He highlights his approach to hiring, focusing on finding individuals who are passionate about making an impact over titles. Overall, the discussion provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of cancer treatment. Biography: Robert Ang, MBBS, MBA brings experience as a senior biotech executive and is formerly a physician, venture capitalist, and strategy consultant. Prior to Vor Bio, Robert was Chief Business Officer at Neon Therapeutics, serving as part of the early team that established the company prior to its Series A investment through IPO. Before Neon, he served as Senior Vice President of Business Development at Bavarian Nordic, where he was primarily responsible for conducting a $975 million transaction with Bristol-Myers Squibb for PROSTVAC, a Phase 3 immuno-oncology asset, and served as Head of Business Development and Medical Affairs for Cadence Pharmaceuticals. Robert also worked at Frazier Healthcare Ventures, a leading life sciences venture capital firm, where he was involved in several pharmaceutical and biotechnology investments including Cadence Pharmaceuticals (purchased by Mallinckrodt), Incline Therapeutics (purchased by The Medicines Company), Alnara Pharmaceuticals (purchased by Eli Lilly), and Collegium Pharmaceuticals. Robert also has strategy consulting experience at the Boston Consulting Group and has general surgical training. He holds an MBBS (Doctor of Medicine) from the University of Western Australia and an MBA with honors from Columbia Business School. Robert serves as the Board Chair of Enara Bio, a UK-based biotechnology company focused on non-classical HLA targets for immuno-oncology approaches. He is also a member of the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors of the Alliance for Regenerative Medicine (ARM), the leading international advocacy organization dedicated to realizing the promise of regenerative medicines and advanced therapies.

Synopsis: In this episode of Biotech2050, Vik Bajaj, Co-founder and CEO of Foresite Labs, delves into the convergence of tech and biotech, hyper-growth phases in biotech companies, changes in finance and capital markets, and lessons from global healthcare systems, particularly the UK. He highlights the transformative potential of technology in biotech and the challenges and opportunities of rapid growth. Biography: Vik is the founder and CEO of Foresite Labs, Foresite Capital's entrepreneurial innovation hub. He is also managing director at Foresite Capital, evaluating and pursuing investments at the intersection of technology and life sciences, including in personalized and precision healthcare. Most recently, Foresite Labs, ARCH Venture Partners, and Dr. David Baker of the UW Medicine Institute for Protein Design teamed up to launch Xaira to deliver transformative medicines by harnessing AI for drug discovery and development. With $1B in funding, Xaira launched with one of the largest biotech funding rounds in history. He is also managing director at Foresite Capital, evaluating and pursuing investments at the intersection of technology and life sciences. Prior to joining Foresite Capital, Vik was the chief scientific officer of GRAIL, a life sciences company working to detect cancer early (acquired by ILMN). He is also the co-founder and former chief scientific officer of Verily (formerly Google Life Sciences) and previously served as chair of its scientific advisory board. He is also a Director of Genomics England, an initiative of the United Kingdom's Department of Health, and is a co-founder and director of numerous biotechnology companies. In the educational realm, Vik currently holds the position of Adjunct Associate Professor at the Stanford School of Medicine. He was previously an affiliate scientist at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the University of California, Berkeley. He also served on the advisory board of the College of Chemistry at the University of California, Berkeley. Vik's research interests lie at the interface of the physical sciences, engineering, and life sciences, including in the generation and use of large biomedical datasets and new AI/ML methods to productively harness them for product development. In his academic career, he and his collaborators have developed nanotechnology probes for the early detection and molecular imaging of disease, spectroscopic tools for imaging objects on the nanoscale, microfabricated and miniaturized analytical and imaging systems for point-of-care testing, methods and devices that dramatically enhance the sensitivity and specificity of MRI, and new tools for clinical bioinformatics and integrative systems biology. Aspects of this work have been commercialized through several startups. At GRAIL, Vik led laboratory and data science teams at the forefront of industrial cancer genomics and diagnostics development. He holds a Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Vik's scientific and engineering awards include the Anatole Abragam Prize (2012), the R&D 100 Award for the most promising commercialized technologies (2011 and 2013), and the Department of Energy's LBL Innovation Grant (2013).

Synopsis: In this episode of Biotech2050, Dr. Ted Love, former CEO of Global Blood Therapeutics and Current Chairman of BIO, shares insights on sickle cell breakthroughs, transitioning from academia to research, navigating a tight funding environment, and protecting an innovative ecosystem to benefit patients. Biography: Dr. Ted Love is the chair of the Board of Directors at the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), a position he assumed in June 2023. A long-time BIO Board Member, Dr. Love has focused on championing access to care, standing up for science, and improving the narrative around the biopharma industry. Dr. Love previously served as president and chief executive officer of Global Blood Therapeutics (GBT). During his tenure at GBT, Dr. Love led the company from a pre-clinical start-up, through the accelerated approval and launch of Oxbryta®, and into a global commercial company with an advanced pipeline of innovative therapies focused on sickle cell disease. Prior to GBT, Dr. Love was executive vice president, research and development and technical operations, at Onyx Pharmaceuticals, Inc., where he played an instrumental role in the accelerated approval of Kyprolis® for multiple myeloma, and the subsequent purchase of Onyx by Amgen. Previously, Dr. Love served as president, chief executive officer and chairman of Nuvelo, Inc., and as senior vice president, development, at Theravance, Inc. Dr. Love began his biotech career at Genentech in 1992, where he held several senior management positions in clinical science and product development, and ultimately as chairman of Genentech's Product Development Committee. As vice president, product development, Dr. Love oversaw the development strategy and execution leading to approvals of Rituxan®, Herceptin®, Xolair®, TNKase®, Raptiva® and Avastin®. Prior to Genentech, Dr. Love was a member of the Department of Cardiology at the Massachusetts General Hospital. Dr. Love currently serves on the boards of directors of Royalty Pharma and Structure Therapeutics. Dr. Love holds a B.A. in molecular biology from Haverford College and an M.D. from Yale Medical School. He completed a residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in cardiology at the Massachusetts General Hospital.

Synopsis: In this episode of the Biotech 2050 podcast, host Rahul Chaturvedi engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Ray Stevens, a prominent figure in the biotech industry who co-founded Structure Therapeutics. Ray's extensive experience and pivotal role in advancing structure-based drug discovery make him a compelling guest for biotech entrepreneurs seeking to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and funding strategies. The episode delves into Ray's journey as a serial entrepreneur, the evolution of structure-based drug discovery, and the strategies employed by Structure Therapeutics to drive innovation and create impactful treatments for global health challenges. Ray's insights into the changing funding environment, the impact of distributed teams on value creation, and the significance of shared passion and mission in a company's success offer valuable knowledge for industry professionals and entrepreneurs. His reflections on the industry's future trends and the personal growth aspect add a relatable and human element to the discussion, making it a valuable resource for individuals at all career stages. Biography: Dr. Stevens helped pioneer the field of structure-based drug discovery. He has been involved in the discovery and development of several therapeutic molecules that have become breakthrough drugs including Palnziq™, which was developed at BioMarin Pharmaceutical and approved in 2018 to treat phenylketonuria. Dr. Stevens also founded Receptos which developed Zeposia™—a GPCR agonist targeting the S1PR1 receptor approved in 2020 for multiple sclerosis and 2021 for ulcerative colitis. Prior to Structure, Dr. Stevens founded the Bridge Institute at the University of Southern California (USC), and the iHuman Institute at ShanghaiTech University. He was previously a tenured chaired chemistry professor at Scripps Research and before that, an assistant professor of chemistry at the University of California, Berkeley. Dr. Stevens' laboratory and students have launched several successful biotech startups including Syrrx (acquired by Takeda), MemRx (acquired by Chiron/Novartis), Receptos (acquired by Celgene/BMS), and RuiYi (now Bird Rock Bio). A prolific scholar, Dr. Stevens has authored more than 400 peer-reviewed publications and received several academic and industry awards. Dr. Stevens conducted postdoctoral research in structural biology at Harvard University with William Lipscomb, who was awarded the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 1976. Dr. Stevens earned his Ph.D. in chemistry from USC with Robert Bau and George Olah, the latter of whom received the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 1994. He completed his undergraduate degree in chemistry from the University of Southern Maine.

Synopsis: In this episode of Biotech2050, Scott Megaffin, CEO of Adiso Therapeutics, shares valuable insights on the challenges and opportunities in the biotech industry. His deep involvement in the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical sector has shaped his strategic approach to leadership and business management. Scott emphasizes the importance of a CEO's versatility and willingness to undertake any task, no matter how small, and also highlights the burden of proving the value of differentiation in a small company. The conversation delves into the significance of collaboration with research institutions and strategic partners, underlining the importance of differentiation and collaboration in competitive markets. Scott's reflections on his career journey and the development of Adiso's asset Adso 51 provide valuable lessons for professionals and entrepreneurs in the field, making this episode a must-listen for biotech entrepreneurs and professionals seeking to enhance their ability to differentiate and collaborate in competitive markets. Biography: Scott joined Adiso Therapeutics as Chief Executive Officer in January 2022, bringing more than 35 years of successful industry leadership, having held multiple senior executive, CEO and board director roles during his career at both Fortune 500 pharmaceutical and emerging biotechnology companies. Among Mr. Megaffin's many career leadership roles, he previously served as the CEO of Adastra Pharmaceuticals Inc., a pioneer in the pursuit of better treatment options for high unmet need cancers, where he led the company from early informative to clinical-stage advancement of first-in-class clinical programs, and ultimately to its acquisition by Cothera Bioscience. Earlier, he served as a President of Churchill Pharmaceuticals, Inc., leading the organizational growth and development of a fully differentiated oral oncology asset for metastatic castrate resistant prostate cancer through FDA approval and ultimately a transaction to Sun Pharma. Mr. Megaffin has held numerous global strategic and operational positions of increasing responsibility within Onconova, Schering-Plough, Yamanouchi, Pharmacia, and Bristol-Myers Squibb. During his career Scott has led six global drug development programs resulting in regulatory approvals. He possesses far reaching knowledge in a broad number of therapeutic categories including oncology, anti-infectives, inflammation, pain, critical care, and virology. Mr. Megaffin currently serves as a board member of Adastra and on the Board of Directors for BioNJ, the biotechnology and life science organization of New Jersey. Mr. Megaffin holds a B.S. in Biology from Pittsburg State University.

Synopsis: In this episode of the Biotech2050 podcast, Dr. Mathai Mammen, CEO of FogPharma, shares valuable insights into the future trends of the biotech industry and the development of peptide-based therapeutics. Dr. Mammen's extensive career trajectory, from academia to leading pharmaceutical organizations, provides a comprehensive understanding of the industry's evolution and the pivotal roles he played at Theravance, Merck, and J&J. The episode delves into the significance of intracellular protein interactions and FogPharma's focus on developing helicon peptides to address this unmet need. Dr. Mammen's emphasis on a moonshot culture at FogPharma, coupled with his strategic approach to commercial success in biotech, makes this episode essential listening for executives in the biotech industry who are looking to stay ahead of future trends and gain insights into the innovative approaches shaping the industry's landscape. His profound knowledge and experience position him as a thought leader, offering invaluable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in biotech, making this episode a compelling resource for industry executives seeking to implement strategies for commercial success in the biotech sector. Biography: Mathai Mammen is a world-renowned innovator in drug discovery, development, and team and company building. He brings significant global R&D and corporate leadership experience to his role as CEO, President and Chairman at FogPharma. Most recently, Mathai was a member of the executive committee at Johnson & Johnson, where he served as executive vice president of pharmaceuticals, R&D. During his tenure, he spearheaded a significant evolution of Janssen's R&D, one of the largest R&D organizations in the world. Mathai was a key leader in Johnson & Johnson's bold foray into COVID vaccines and he helped drive Janssen's substantial growth to become one of the top pharmaceutical companies globally. Under Mathai's leadership, Janssen R&D executed 40+ acquisitions and licenses and 350+ strategic partnerships and collaborations. A central pillar of his strategy was data science, which he used to couple recent revolutionary advances in data, compute and algorithmic approaches to every aspect of discovering and developing medicines. Mathai led his team to global approvals of eight new medicines, including Tremfya™, Darzalex Faspro™, Balversa™, Carvykti™, Rybrevant™, Ponvory™, Spravato™ and Tecvayli™, with many additional global approvals for expanded indications of marketed products. Prior to his role at Johnson & Johnson, Mathai served as senior vice president at Merck, where he was responsible for multiple research areas, including cardiovascular, metabolic and renal diseases, immunology, oncology and immuno-oncology. Before Merck, he led R&D at Theravance, Inc., a company he co-founded out of graduate school based on his work at Harvard University with Dr. George Whitesides. Under his leadership, Theravance advanced a robust pipeline of multiple development-stage compounds resulting in five approved pharmaceutical products, and separated into two companies: Theravance Biopharma, Inc. and Innoviva, Inc. In addition to his extensive corporate experience, Mathai currently serves on the board of directors of 10x Genomics, Inc. He has authored more than 150 peer-reviewed publications and patents. Mathai holds an M.D. from the Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (HST) and a Ph.D. in chemistry from Harvard University.

Synopsis: In the recent episode of Biotech2050, Ken Galbraith, CEO of Zymeworks, shares profound insights into the biotech industry, leadership, and the complexities of developing innovative treatments for challenging cancers. Galbraith's accidental entry into biotech in 1987, despite lacking prior experience, led to his pivotal role in establishing a successful biotech company in Canada, shaping the industry significantly. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the critical elements of leadership, continuous learning, and the relentless pursuit of groundbreaking science. Galbraith's focus on addressing unmet medical needs and navigating the dynamic biotech landscape offers valuable lessons for current and aspiring biotech leaders. Furthermore, his involvement in developing innovative biologic structures for difficult-to-treat cancers, exemplified by Zymeworks' mission, underscores the episode's relevance for biotech professionals seeking insights into leadership, growth, and pioneering solutions for challenging medical conditions. Galbraith's wealth of experience and strategic approach provide a compelling narrative that makes this episode an invaluable resource for understanding the keys to success in the dynamic and impactful field of biotechnology. Biography: Mr. Galbraith has served as Zymeworks' Chair & CEO since January 2022. Mr. Galbraith has over 35 years' experience in biotechnology and venture capital having acted as an executive, director, investor as well as an advisor to companies in the biotechnology, medical device, pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors across North America and the UK in the growth of both private and public companies from an early-stage through regulatory approval and commercialization. Ken has worked with many biotechnology companies including: Liminal BioSciences Inc., Macrogenics, AnorMED, Alder Pharmaceuticals, Celator Pharmaceuticals, Novadaq, Profound Medical, Fairhaven Pharmaceuticals, Tekmira, Angiotech, Aquinox, and Xenon Pharmaceuticals among others. Mr. Galbraith currently serves on the board of directors of Profound Medical He earned a Bachelor of Commerce (Honors) degree from the University of British Columbia in 1985.

Synopsis: In this episode of Biotech2050, host Alok Tayi engages in a profound conversation with Craig Chambliss, CEO and co-founder of Neurellis, delving into their strategic advancements in precision therapies for CNS diseases. Chambliss shares his journey, highlighting his finance and accounting background and pivotal roles in pharmaceutical companies like Bristol Myers Squibb and Alza Pharmaceuticals. His passion for impactful drug delivery technologies led to the launch of life-changing products, including an intranasal diazepam program for seizure emergencies, ultimately culminating in the founding of Neurellis in 2008. With the approval of their product Altoco in 2020, Neurellis addressed unmet needs in the epilepsy market, emphasizing the significance of a passionate team and a foundational product for successful clinical trials and market access. The conversation emphasizes the importance of precision therapies in the CNS space, collaboration for innovative solutions, and the potential of Neurellis' pipeline in addressing severe epileptic encephalopathies. Chambliss's insights into the strategic management of a biotech company, the utilization of platform technologies, and the evolving landscape of the biotech industry offer compelling takeaways for biotech executives seeking strategic insights. This episode provides a valuable opportunity to gain strategic insights into precision therapies for CNS diseases and the journey of a successful biotech company. Biography: Craig Chambliss' 30-year tenure in the biopharma and drug delivery sectors has largely specialized in rare diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) and epilepsy. As the co-founder, CEO, and President of Neurelis, he has orchestrated the company's growth, securing over $300M in funding and guiding its evolution into a fully integrated organization, spanning from early-stage development to commercialization. Before his current role at Neurelis, Mr. Chambliss played a key part in reshaping NextWave Pharmaceuticals into a CNS-focused entity, serving as its Chief Business Officer. Under his leadership, NextWave secured $45M in Series C financing and was later acquired by Pfizer in a deal value exceeding $700M in 2012. Prior to NextWave, he also helped rebuild Questcor Pharmaceuticals as a CNS-focused organization, where he led commercial operations supporting the relaunch of Acthar® Gel for the treatment of a rare epilepsy disorder in pediatric patients. Mr. Chambliss's pharmaceutical journey began in sales at Bristol Myers Squibb and continued through various roles at Alza Pharmaceuticals and Elan Pharmaceuticals. In 2001, he helped launch Xcel Pharmaceuticals, a CNS startup focusing on epilepsy treatment, leading to a successful acquisition by Valeant Pharmaceuticals in 2005 for $280M. His academic foundation includes Bachelor of Science degrees in Finance and Accounting from Missouri State University.

Synopsis: On the Biotech2050 podcast, Tuyen Ong, CEO at Ring Therapeutics and CEO partner at flagship pioneering, shared his journey from a medical background to leading innovative gene therapy companies, highlighting the importance of cross-disciplinary expertise in driving biotech advancements. His insights into the gene therapy landscape and the future of genetic medicine, including its intersection with artificial intelligence, offer valuable perspectives for biotech professionals seeking to navigate the complexities of precision medicine and drug development. Tuyen's emphasis on fostering a values-driven culture, leveraging innovation in genetic medicine, and maintaining a resilient mindset in the face of industry challenges serves as a guiding light for aspiring biotech professionals and organizations striving to make a positive impact on global health. With a deep understanding of the industry's challenges and opportunities, Tuyen's discussion with host Rahul Chaturvedi provides a comprehensive exploration of culture-building, precision medicine, and strategic growth within the biotech industry, making it a must-listen for professionals seeking insights into innovative advancements in precision medicine. Biography: Tuyen is a physician, bioentrepreneur and Ring's CEO. Prior to joining Ring Therapeutics in September 2020, Tuyen served as Senior Vice President at Biogen and as Chief Development Officer at Nightstar Therapeutics until its acquisition by Biogen. During this time, he was involved with the company's public listing on the NASDAQ, corporate and gene therapy strategy, investor, and M&A activities. Tuyen brings over 20 years of clinical and drug development experience from both large pharma and biotech, working in the fields of genetics, ophthalmology, and rare disease at PTC Therapeutics Inc., Bausch and Lomb Inc. (acquired by Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc.), and Pfizer. Tuyen holds an MD from the University College London and an MBA from New York University Stern School of Business. He is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and a Churchill Fellow.

Synopsis: In a recent episode of Biotech2050, hosted by Alok Tayi, Kristen Fortney, CEO of BioAge, provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of aging biology and the innovative approach BioAge is taking to identify therapeutic targets. Kristen's background in aging biology, genetics, and statistics underscores her expertise in the field. The conversation delves into the shift towards translational research in aging biology, emphasizing the increasing interest in targeting aging-related diseases such as heart disease, Alzheimer's, and cancer. Kristen highlights the importance of leveraging human data, utilizing relevant animal models, and strategically allocating resources to enhance the success rate of drug development in the biotech industry. She shares BioAge's unique approach to drug discovery, focusing on human data sets collected over decades, and emphasizes the importance of identifying novel targets for aging-related diseases. This episode is essential listening for entrepreneurs in biotech and aging research, providing valuable insights into the current state and future prospects of the field, and highlighting the potential for driving innovation through collaboration and strategic partnerships. Biography: Kristen leads BioAge in its mission to develop a broad pipeline of therapies that target metabolic aging by harnessing the science of human longevity.Kristen draws from a deep background in geroscience and systems biology to advance BioAge's data-driven approach to identifying and targeting the molecular pathways that drive aging. Kristen received her PhD in Medical Biophysics from the University of Toronto, followed by postdoctoral training at Stanford University where she was a fellow of the Ellison Medical Foundation / American Federation for Aging Research. She has over 15 years of experience developing novel bioinformatics approaches for data-driven investigation into the mechanisms of aging and age-related disease, with 18 published papers spanning computational drug discovery, biomarkers of aging, and the genetics of exceptional human longevity. BioAge recently closed a Series D financing bringing the company's total raise above $300 million.

Synopsis: In this episode of the Biotech2050 podcast, Chris Gibson, the co-founder and CEO of Recursion, shares insights on the intersection of technology and biotech, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and diverse partnerships in driving innovation. Gibson's journey from pursuing an MD-PhD program with a focus on merging engineering and medicine to founding Recursion showcases his deep understanding of the evolving biotech landscape. His experience navigating the capital markets and proactive decision-making in response to market conditions offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs in the industry. The episode delves into the challenges and opportunities in the biotech sector, highlighting the transformative potential of technology and the significance of embracing entrepreneurship and risk-taking. Gibson's emphasis on building diverse teams and the impact of partnerships serves as a compelling reason for entrepreneurs and leaders in the biotech industry to listen to this episode, providing valuable insights and strategies for navigating the rapidly changing biotech landscape. Biography: Chris Gibson developed the technology and approach that seeded Recursion as part of his MD/PhD work in the lab of Co-Founder Dr. Dean Li (current President of Merck Research Labs) while at the University of Utah. After completing his Ph.D., Chris left medical school to build Recursion into the rapidly growing company it is today. Chris is a graduate of Rice University with degrees in bioengineering and management. Chris serves on the Board of BioHive, the public-private partnership driving expansion of Utah's life-science ecosystem, the fastest growing in the nation. Chris is also active as an advisor and mentor, both formally and informally, of many young biotech founders. Chris enjoys cycling on both the road and the trails that cut through Utah's great wilderness, as well as spending time with family.

Synopsis: Christian Angermayer, a prominent investor and entrepreneur in the biotech industry, shares valuable insights in the Biotech2050 podcast, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities within the sector. Drawing from his extensive experience, Angermayer emphasizes the importance of making biotech more accessible to a broader audience while maintaining the integrity of the science. He discusses the need for a broader investor community in biotech to unlock more capital and stimulate early-stage science funding. His unique perspective highlights the intersection of tech and biotech, emphasizing the potential for collaboration and innovation. By implementing Angermayer's insights, entrepreneurs can gain a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape of biotech and harness new opportunities for growth and development. By incorporating Angermayer's insights, entrepreneurs can gain essential knowledge of the evolving biotech landscape and capitalize on new opportunities for growth and development. Biography: Christian Angermayer is a serial entrepreneur and investor who builds and invests in companies that are shaping the Next Human Agenda: a future in which technology empowers people to live longer, healthier, and happier lives. Christian's family office and private investment firm, Apeiron Investment Group, has more than USD 2.5 billion under management and 50 people in London, New York City, Abu Dhabi and Berlin. Apeiron focuses on Life Sciences, FinTech & Crypto, Future Tech and Experiences, Hospitality & Happiness. Over the past 20 years, Christian has founded three unicorns himself and has been the lead investor in four unicorns and two decacorns.

Synopsis: In this episode of the Biotech2050 podcast, David Kirn, CEO of 4D Molecular Therapeutics, shares invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs in the biotech industry. Kirn discusses the development of his company's platform that integrates gene therapy and directed evolution to create innovative treatments for genetic diseases. By utilizing directed evolution, 4D Molecular Therapeutics has been able to invent an AAV vector that achieves safe and effective gene expression in the retina, targeting rare genetic diseases initially and subsequently expanding to larger markets. Kirn emphasizes the importance of balancing a strong platform with diverse product opportunities to decrease risk and increase the probability of success in the biotech landscape. Kirn's expertise and experience provide a compelling narrative that sheds light on the vital aspects of biotech entrepreneurship. Kirn emphasizes the importance of balancing a strong platform with diverse product opportunities to decrease risk and increase the probability of success in the biotech landscape. The episode delves into the tension between platform and product focus, offering guidance on fundraising and the regional dynamics of biotech investment. Kirn's expertise and experience provide a compelling narrative that sheds light on the vital aspects of biotech entrepreneurship, making this episode a must-listen for academic entrepreneurs looking to navigate the complexities of biotech investment and build traction in the industry. Biography: David Kirn, MD, is our co-founder and has served as our Chief Executive Officer since our inception in 2013. Dr. Kirn is also Adjunct Professor of Bioengineering and Molecular & Cellular Biology at UC Berkeley. Over his 30 year career, Dr. Kirn has co-founded and been CEO of four viral vector-based genetic medicines companies, three of which to date were either acquired or went public. Dr. Kirn also held senior clinical research and development positions at Onyx Pharmaceuticals (VP) and Celgene (SVP), and was a senior advisor to Novartis, Bayer, Pfizer, Biogen and others in the genetic medicines field. Dr. Kirn received a BA in Physiology (Departmental Citation; Phi Beta Kappa) from UC Berkeley in 1985, an MD (Alpha Omega Alpha) from UC San Francisco Medical School in 1989 and completed internal medicine residency training at Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital (including a term as Chief Medical Resident at affiliated VA hospital). He has also completed hematology-oncology and clinical research fellowships at UC San Francisco and completed a certificate of business excellence from the Haas Business School at UC Berkeley. In 2013, he was awarded the Johnson & Johnson Entrepreneur Innovator award from the J&J Innovation Center.

Synopsis: In this episode of the Biotech2050 podcast, David Esposito, CEO of ONL Therapeutics, provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in the field of ophthalmology. Esposito's extensive career journey, from the United States Military Academy to leading ONL Therapeutics, underscores his deep understanding of the industry. He offers a comprehensive analysis of the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) on indication selection and the evolving capital market for biotech companies. The episode delves into the complexities of proving safety and tolerability in new mechanisms of action, the strategic shift in pursuing chronic indications, and the interplay between big pharma and early-stage biotechs in the current capital environment. Esposito's expertise and in-depth knowledge make this episode essential listening for ophthalmology professionals seeking to navigate industry challenges, understand the IRA's implications, and explore strategic partnerships for clinical development support.,In this episode of the Biotech2050 podcast, CEO of ONL Therapeutics, David Esposito, shares his extensive insights into the challenges and opportunities within the ophthalmology field. With a career spanning from the United States Military Academy to leading ONL Therapeutics, Esposito brings a wealth of experience and understanding to the topic. The discussion delves into the intricate impact of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) on indication selection and the dynamic capital market for biotech companies. Esposito's analysis covers the complexities of proving safety and tolerability in new mechanisms of action, strategic shifts in pursuing chronic indications, and the interplay between big pharma and early-stage biotechs in the current capital environment. Professionals in the ophthalmology sector will find this episode invaluable for gaining insights into industry challenges, comprehending the implications of the IRA, and exploring strategic partnerships for clinical development support. Biography: David is the former CEO of Armune BioScience where he led the development and commercialization of blood-based diagnostics to improve the early detection of cancer. The Company successfully launched the only non-PSA blood test to improve the detection of prostate cancer. Armune BioScience was sold to Exact Sciences (EXAS) in 2017. David Esposito is an experienced healthcare executive who has built and scaled multiple companies that resulted in successful exits to strategic buyers. He was President of Phadia US Inc. (allergy and autoimmune diagnostics) and played a pivotal role in the sale of the business to Thermo Fisher Scientific (TMO) in 2011. David began his career as a sales representative with Merck & Co. Inc. and rose through the ranks of sales, marketing and commercial strategy for the US Division. David is a combat veteran, led an infantry platoon with the 101st Airborne Division through several combat operations, and was recognized with a Bronze Star for combat action in Iraq in 1991. David earned his B.S. degree in Civil Engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point and his MBA from Syracuse University.

Synopsis: In this episode of the Biotech2050 podcast, Jak Knowles, co-founder of Affini-T Therapeutics, shares valuable insights into the challenges faced by bootstrapped biotech companies and the significance of venture capital in the industry. Knowles discusses the importance of finding key partners and securing intellectual property early on, shedding light on the capital-intensive nature of drug development. Furthermore, he highlights the value of experienced investors and the impact of their investment source, emphasizing the advantage of being one of the first investments out of a fund. Knowles also provides an update on Affini-T Therapeutics' focus on developing therapies for solid tumors, offering a glimpse into their innovative approach using cell therapy and synthetic biology to address the challenges of the tumor microenvironment. His journey and expertise in navigating the intricacies of fundraising and company-building make this episode essential listening for entrepreneurs in the biotech industry, providing practical lessons and strategic insights for overcoming funding obstacles and driving success in the competitive landscape of biotechnology.,In this episode of the Biotech2050 podcast, Jak Knowles, the co-founder of Affini-T Therapeutics, offers valuable perspectives on the challenges encountered by bootstrapped biotech companies and the pivotal role of venture capital in the industry. Knowles emphasizes the significance of early intellectual property acquisition and strategic partnerships as critical factors in the capital-intensive arena of drug development. Furthermore, he underscores the importance of securing investment from experienced sources and elaborates on the benefits of being an early investment in a fund. Knowles also provides an update on Affini-T Therapeutics' focus on developing innovative therapies for solid tumors, showcasing the company's pioneering approach involving cell therapy and synthetic biology to address the complexities of the tumor microenvironment. With his wealth of experience and expertise, Knowles offers essential insights for biotech entrepreneurs, providing actionable strategies and valuable lessons for navigating the funding landscape and achieving success in the competitive biotechnology sector. Biography: Jak Knowles, MD, is Co-Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Affini-T Therapeutics. He has more than two decades of R&D, management, and entrepreneurial experience in the life science industry. Prior to launching Affini-T, Jak served as Co-founder and Chief Business Officer for Metagenomi, a next-generation gene editing company based in Berkeley, California. Jak was previously Head of Pharma Venture Investments for Leaps by Bayer, where he helped lead Metagenomi's initial seed financing and early strategy serving on Metagenomi's Board of Directors. Before joining Bayer, Jak served as Chief Executive Officer of CytoSen Therapeutics, where he developed Natural Killer immune cell therapies for oncology indications. In 2016, Jak co-founded and launched Exonics Therapeutics, a CRISPR gene-editing company, serving as President and interim-Chief Executive Officer. Jak previously served on the Board of Directors for Century Therapeutics, Exonics Therapeutics, Metagenomi Technologies, Triumvira Immunologics, and Pyxis Oncology. Jak earned his MD from Stanford University where he graduated with honors in biomedical research, and an undergraduate degree in biology from Binghamton University

Synopsis: Sean Bohen, M.D., Ph.D., is the President and CEO of Olema Oncology, a biopharmaceutical company developing innovative targeted therapies for women's cancers. We're excited to welcome Sean back to the podcast – he last appeared on episode 130 in late 2022. Sean provides an update on all the exciting things that have happened at Olema since then, including an update on their lead product candidate. Sean reflects on navigating the challenging biotech market environment over the past year, making careful spending decisions, and raising significant capital to extend Olema's runway. He also offers advice to first-time CEOs on building a strong support network to guide company growth. Biography: Dr. Bohen has served as Chief Executive Officer of Olema Oncology and a member of the Board of Directors since September 2020. He is also a non-executive director of Gyroscope Therapeutics, Ltd. and AltruBio, Inc. He has extensive oncology drug development experience, having served as Executive Vice President, Global Medicines Development, and Chief Medical Officer at AstraZeneca PLC. Before that, he held a number of senior leadership roles at Genentech, Inc., including Senior Vice President, Early Development, Genentech Research and Early Development. Prior to Genentech, he was a Clinical Instructor in Oncology at Stanford University School of Medicine; a research associate at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute; and a postdoctoral fellow at the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Dr. Bohen received a B.S. in bacteriology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a Ph.D. in biochemistry and biophysics and an M.D. from the University of California, San Francisco.

Synopsis: Troy Wilson, Ph.D., J.D., is the President and CEO of Kura Oncology, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to realizing the promise of precision medicines for the treatment of cancer. Troy talks about his experiences being a CEO and the differences in responsibility between being a CEO and a board member. He also shares what it takes to have a productive board for a biotech company. He discusses recruiting at both the team level and the board level and the qualities that he looks for in a candidate. He shares where he thinks cancer drug development is headed, where it needs to head and where he thinks there's unmet need. Finally, he talks about the work they're pursuing at Kura and where they are from a development perspective. Biography: Troy E. Wilson, Ph.D., J.D., is one of Kura's Co-founders and has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer and as the Chairman of our Board of Directors since our inception in August 2014. Previously, Dr. Wilson served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Wellspring Biosciences, Inc., a privately held biopharmaceutical company, and its parent company Araxes Pharma LLC from July 2012 to March 2019 and as President and Chief Executive Officer of Avidity Biosciences, Inc., a publicly held biopharmaceutical company, from November 2012 to February 2019. Dr. Wilson served as the President and Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors of Intellikine, Inc., a privately held biopharmaceutical company, from April 2007 to January 2012 and from August 2007 to January 2012, respectively, until its acquisition by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited. He has also been a member of the Board of Directors of Puma Biotechnology, Inc., a publicly held biopharmaceutical company, since October 2013, Chairman and a member of the Board of Directors of Avidity Biosciences, Inc., a publicly held biopharmaceutical company, since February 2019 and November 2012, respectively, Executive Chairman and a member of the Board of Directors of Wellspring Biosciences since February 2019 and July 2012, respectively, and a member of the Board of Managers of Araxes Pharma LLC since July 2012. Dr. Wilson holds a J.D. from New York University and graduated with a Ph.D. in bioorganic chemistry and a B.A. in biophysics from the University of California, Berkeley.

Synopsis: Keith Gottesdiener, MD, and Jeremy Duffield, MD, PhD, FRCP, are the President & CEO and CSO, respectively, of Prime Medicine. Prime Medicine was founded to bring the promise of gene editing to patients. They use Prime Editing, a next-generation technology that can “search and replace” to restore normal genetic function almost anywhere in the genome. Keith and Jeremy discuss the arc of their careers and how they go to where they are today. They talk about the differences working in big pharma vs. a smaller biotech like Prime. They discuss the importance of companies investing in safety and what they've learned in terms of indication selection frameworks within the context of gene editing. Finally, they talk about their goal of engaging in partnerships down the road, and the importance of having transparency within their organization. Biography: Keith Gottesdiener, MD is President and Chief Executive Officer of Prime Medicine and has served as a member of our Board of Directors since July 2020. From October 2011 until March 2020, Dr. Gottesdiener served as the Chief Executive Officer and a director of Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company that develops therapeutics in rare genetic obesity. During that time, Rhythm submitted a New Drug Application for setmelanotide in two indications, for which setmelanotide was subsequently approved. Dr. Gottesdiener received his B.A. from Harvard College and his M.D. from the University of Pennsylvania. He completed his residency and fellowship at the Brigham and Women's Hospital-Beth Israel Medical Center-Dana Farber Cancer Institute Children's Hospital programs. After his fellowship, Dr. Gottesdiener did postdoctoral research in the laboratory of Dr. Jack Strominger at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. He then joined the faculty as an assistant professor at Columbia University, where he started an independent research laboratory with NIH RO-1 funding, ending his academic career as Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine at the time he left to join Merck in 1995. Jeremy Duffield, MD, PhD, FRCP, is the Chief Scientific Officer of Prime Medicine. He has many years of drug discovery experience at Vertex Pharmaceuticals and Biogen Inc. preceded by a distinguished career in academic medicine. Dr. Duffield has held several leadership roles, with focus in the fields of human genetics, innate immunity and regenerative medicine. He served as Global Head of Human Biology at Vertex Pharmaceuticals and as Vice President of Business Development where he and his team played important roles in discovering and advancing candidates to clinical studies in rare diseases including cystic fibrosis, a1-antitrypsin deficiency, sickle cell disease, FSGS and muscular dystrophies. Several candidates are now approved therapies. He was instrumental in building Vertex Cell and Genetic Therapies. At Biogen, Dr. Duffield served as Senior Research Fellow and Vice President with responsibilities in early research programs, as joint Head of Innate Immunity and Regenerative Medicine therapeutic area, and as Head of the Biogen Post-Doctoral program. There he contributed to advancing integrin inhibitors, TNF superfamily inhibitors and IRAK inhibitors to clinical evaluation for pulmonary fibrosis and autoimmune diseases. Dr. Duffield received his B.A. and M.D. (B.M., B.Ch.) from Oxford University and a Ph.D. in Immunology from the University of Edinburgh in the laboratory of Sir John Savill.

Synopsis: Brett Hall, Ph.D., is the CSO of Immuneering, a public, clinical-stage oncology company dedicated to developing medicines for broad populations of cancer patients by applying its deep knowledge of translational bioinformatics to every stage of the drug development process. Brett talks about his background in the military targeting nuclear missiles prior to becoming a scientist and some of the commonalities between working in the military and pharma/biotech. He shares his thoughts on AI and machine learning in drug development. He talks about Immuneering's disease-agnostic platform that enables the company to utilize human data, novel biology and chemistry, and translational planning to create and advance its pipeline. Finally, he discusses their focus on oncology and providing potential treatments for patients with advanced solid tumors. Biography: Brett Hall, Ph.D. has served as Chief Scientific Officer of Immuneering since November 2019. He also served as the Founder and Chairman of the board of directors of BioArkive, Inc., or BioArkive, a privately held biotechnology services company from January 2019 until December 2021. Prior to joining Imuneering, Dr. Hall served as the Chief Executive Officer of Asellus Therapeutics, LLC from July 2015 until May 2018. Dr. Hall served in roles of increasing responsibility with Johnson & Johnson from November 2008 until July 2014, culminating in his role as the Head of Biomarkers of the Hematologic Disease Area Stronghold, where he led translational efforts for Sylvant® and Imbruvica® through clinical development. Subsequently, he served as the Head of Translational Medicine of Oncology at Medimmune, LLC, the biologics division of AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP, from July 2014 until July 2015, before transitioning to executive discovery roles in biotechnology. He has extensive drug development and leadership experience ranging from early drug discovery through translational clinical sciences, including multiple drug registrations. Dr. Hall has extensively published in the areas of tumor microenvironment (TME) and translational sciences, and holds multiple patents for drug pharmacology and discovery. He was also a tenure-track Assistant Professor at Ohio State University where his laboratory focused on the development of human TME-aligned models to better translate preclinical data into the clinic and discover novel biomarkers. Prior to Dr. Hall's career in life sciences, he served in the United States Air Force and worked as an investment banker. Dr. Hall received his B.S. in biochemistry from Ohio State University, his Ph.D. in immunology and cancer biology from West Virginia University, and completed his post-doctoral fellowship in cancer cell epigenetics at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Synopsis: Ivana Magovčević-Liebisch, PhD, JD, is the President and CEO of Vigil Neuroscience, a microglia-focused company dedicated to improving the lives of patients, caregivers, and families affected by rare and common neurodegenerative diseases by restoring the vigilance of microglia, the sentinel cells of the brain's immune system. Ivana shares how sitting on boards of other companies has informed how she operates as CEO at Vigil. She talks about how she's seen her role evolve as the company has grown over the last three years. She discusses the importance of having diversity and diversity of thought on the leadership team. She provides her perspective on neurology as a therapeutic area, where unmet needs still exist, and the challenges and opportunities in precision-based neurology. Finally, she shares her approach to building culture at Vigil. Biography: Ivana is an accomplished pharmaceutical and biotechnology executive focused on corporate excellence and execution. She has over 20 years of senior management experience in financing, strategic partnerships, M&A, clinical development, regulatory affairs, commercialization, legal and IP strategies, and preparation and execution of operating plans. Prior to Vigil, Ivana was Executive Vice President (EVP) and Chief Business Officer at Ipsen where she was responsible for fueling the pipeline through external innovation and led the External Innovation, Business Development and Alliance Management functions. Prior to Ipsen, Ivana was EVP, Chief Strategy and Corporate Development Officer at Axcella Health, Senior VP (SVP) and Head of Global Business Development for the specialty drug business at Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. She previously worked at Dyax Corp in management roles including EVP and Chief Operating Officer where she launched the company's first drug, Kalbitor® for an orphan indication, Hereditary Angioedema, and at Transkaryotic Therapies, Inc. Ivana serves as a member of the Board of Directors for Aeglea BioTherapeutics, Inc. Ivana holds a PhD in Genetics from Harvard University and received her JD in High Technology law from Suffolk University Law School.