VERSONNEX
• Over 10 years research experience in Neuroscience with particular interest in GPCRs and ion channels targets.
• 7 years experience of the drug discovery process related to CNS, including discovery and pre-clinical development of small molecules allosteric modulators
• Participated in the development and growth of Addex Pharmaceuticals S.A. including the development of its organization and business (Series C financial round up to IPO, ADXN, Swiss Stock Exchange).
• Major role in defining the strategy of Addex CNS business unit with Addex CEO, and presentation to external companies for future business collaboration.
• Line Management: Group Leader for a group of 2-3 Laboratory Head (PhD) and 6-7 technicians (objective setting, performance appraisals, career development and recruitment).
• Project Management: extensive and successful experience in coordinating group of inter-disciplinary scientists, including external collaborations with big pharma (Merck & Co., Inc), to perform and meet deadlines within therapeutic area (CNS: Depression, Anxiety, SCZ, Parkinson and Alzheimer’s diseases; Metabolic Disorder and Reproductive Health); communicating project progress and plans to senior management. Track record of success in bringing small molecules modulators from hit identification up to entry in Phase I.
• Business Development: Involvement in business plans writing, discussions with life science investors and other companies, due diligences for in/out licensing activities.
• Technical: Wide panel of expertise in: radioligand binding, cell based assays and electrophysiology for GPCR/ion channel targets.
• Strong people and scientific leadership. Enthusiastic team player and strong work ethic with recognized success in meeting or exceeding goals under minimal supervision.
• Co-inventor on 3 patents for allosteric modulators drugs and co-author of 7 peer-reviewed publications in high quality journals and > 20 oral and/or posters communications in international meetings.
Specialties
- CNS drug discovery (Hit-to-Lead, Lead Optimization and Candidate Selection phases)
- In vitro receptor pharmacology
- GPCR and ion channel pharmacology and Allosterism
- Drug mechanism of action
- CNS therapeutic areas: Cognitive disorders, Parkinson and Alzheimer’s Disease, Schizophrenia, Anxiety, Depression
- Project Leader in several drug discovery programs targeting GPCRs within Family 1a, 2 and 3
