San Diego, California, United States
With more than 15 years in biotech and pharma leading Immunology and Inflammation (I&I) discovery and translational programs. My background centers on small molecule drug discovery, with experience spanning target validation, preclinical and translational research, and the successful transition of programs from preclinical development into first-in-human (FIH) clinical studies. I’ve built and led teams that connect biology, pharmacology, and clinical strategy to make data-driven decisions and advance programs efficiently toward clinical success. While my primary expertise is in small molecule I&I discovery, I’ve also contributed to biologic and immuno-oncology programs earlier in my career—experience that helps me bring a broad, integrated perspective to drug discovery strategy.
Led Immunology and Inflammation discovery programs focused on small molecule therapeutics. Partnered with senior leadership to shape research strategy, portfolio prioritization, and program advancement from lead optimization through IND-enabling studies. - Directed cross-functional research integrating biology, translational science, and bioinformatics to define biomarker and patient-stratification strategies. - Collaborated with Translational and Clinical Immunology teams to align preclinical data with clinical readiness and indication strategy. - Managed and mentored a team of 15 scientists, fostering collaboration, accountability, and scientific rigor. - Partnered with CROs, KOLs, and academic collaborators to support pipeline progression and external innovation. - Contributed to key go/no-go and portfolio decisions ensuring focus on high-value programs.
Directed translational biology and discovery efforts across Immunology and Immuno-Oncology programs, bridging early discovery and clinical development. - Served as biology lead for an immune-oncology small molecule program, advancing candidates from lead optimization to selection. - Led translational biology activities supporting BTK inhibitor development, including PD assay design and target engagement validation for clinical readiness. - Collaborated with clinical, pharmacology, and bioinformatics teams to develop robust non-clinical data packages and IND documentation. - Supported early I&I programs through biomarker discovery and translational strategy development. - Promoted collaboration across scientific disciplines to enhance program efficiency and scientific excellence.
Contributed to translational and preclinical research supporting multiple Immunology programs from non-clinical through clinical transition. - Generated preclinical data packages enabling first-in-human (FIH) studies for small molecule assets for neurological diseases. - Provided scientific leadership for strategic research alliances with academic partners studying mechanisms of action for ozanimod in MS and IBD. - Supported Ph3 advancement of cendakimab (an anti–IL-13 mAb) through translational studies in relevant disease models. - Led preclinical studies for an IL-2 mutein program, optimizing dosing and demonstrating PD and efficacy in animal models.
Biology leader involved in numerous activities to support Celgene/Receptos pipeline. - Lead early stage research programs with small molecule therapeutics for the treatment of inflammatory disorders, including MS and IBD. - Involved in target identification and lead research activities for validation of potential new targets. - Designed and implemented flow scheme assays to support medicinal chemistry and SAR efforts, accelerating identification of optimized leads. - Supported translational research for ozanimod through non-clinical, mechanistic studies. - Managed external collaborations and CRO studies to support advanced candidates and Moa understanding of assets in clinical development
Advanced bispecific antibody programs for inflammatory and immune-mediated diseases from early discovery to preclinical validation. - Designed and executed in vivo and in vitro assays to assess efficacy and mechanism of action. - Managed research associates and coordinated internal and external research activities. - Collaborated with academic and industry partners to explore novel biologic therapeutic approaches. - Evaluated emerging technologies and contributed to target identification initiatives.