Biotech startup in I&I.

» Created a department focused on “programmable cell signaling”; hired and managed research team» Oversaw R&D resulting in lead candidate identification for cell therapy manufacturing in multiple indications, pending IND and DMF applications and patent applications » Led strategic discussions with C-level suite including data review and scenario planning to drive decision making for the product portfolio.

Acquired by Lyell Immunopharma.We built programmable signaling platforms for cell therapies. Recruited co-founders, built a team, generated IP, raised seed funding, and closed multiple R&D collaborations with large pharma and biotechs.

» Engaged as an external consultant and subsequently hired as a Venture Partner. As a Venture Partner, focused on the fields of cell therapy, genomics, synthetic biology, and new materials. Created deal flow, identifying new scientific opportunities in small biotech companies to invest (Seed and Series A level funding).

I Invented a cell-programming technology licensed to Novartis. I worked with BD directors from Wyss and Novartis to craft IP strategy, licensing options, and deal structures for cancer immunotherapy applications.Directed autoimmune and oncology discovery programs by designing programmable nanomaterials to control cell fate.

» Assembled new team and built new lab, initiated and maintained both academic and industrial collaborations. » Innovation: Expanded cancer vaccine technology to potential utilization for suppression of the immune system to improve autoimmune decease management. Results were published and patented. The patents became part of the licensing deal with Novartis and with Immulus that was acquired by Lyell.» Co-managed the translation of the first clinically tested, material-based cancer vaccine (WDvax) that I invented and developed from concept to clinic. Designed IND-enabling studies, created a preclinical data package for melanoma vaccine, and co-authored IND application which received FDA approval within 30 days after submission.

Lead Instructor - Cell and Tissue Engineering; Seminar Instructor - Engineering and Biotechnology

» Co-founded start-up with the goal to advance cancer vaccine for melanoma and brain cancer by licensing technology IP from Harvard. Continued to develop the technology at Wyss Institute at Harvard.» Innovation: Invented and patented cancer vaccine platform as a PhD student.» BD and IP: Fund-raised >$4M (angel and grant funding) and solidified IP position by collaborating with IP attorneys on building patent portfolio strategy.» Non-Dilutive Capital Funding: Awarded $3.1M SBIR NIH grant for preclinical discovery and development of a glioblastoma immunotherapy.» R&D Management: Hired team of 5 scientists, build scientific capabilities, and led design of vaccines with the goal to eradicate preclinical brain tumors.Invented preclinical vaccine formulations capable of eradicating brain tumors (Glioblastoma) while preserving neurological function in animal models