Between the Biotech Waves

Nessan Bermingham PhD

Between the Biotech Waves—discussing recent developments and market dynamics impacting the biotech sector.

  1. 04/25/2025

    S2 E6: A Between the Biotech Waves Conversation with Steve Paul

    I am thrilled to welcome Steve Paul to Between the Biotech Waves. With nearly 50 years of experience as a physician-scientist, Steve has made significant contributions to the fields of neuroscience, molecular neuropharmacology, and CNS drug discovery and development. He is the scientific co-founder of Sage Therapeutics, where he played a key role as the interim head of Research and Development during its formative stages which ultimately led to the approval of the first drug for postpartum depression. Additionally, he co-founded Voyager Therapeutics, a pioneering company in CNS gene therapy, and served as its president and CEO. Steve’s leadership extends to Karuna Pharmaceuticals, where he served as CEO and chairman, developing groundbreaking treatments for schizophrenia and dementia-related psychosis in Alzheimer’s disease. This innovative work culminated in the company’s sale to Bristol-Myers Squibb in 2023 for an impressive $14 billion. Previously, Steve directed the Appel Alzheimer Disease Research Institute at Weill Cornell Medical College and is currently a professor of psychiatry and neurology at Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine. His distinguished career also includes 17 years at Eli Lilly, where he held multiple leadership roles, including Executive Vice President for Science and Technology and President of Lilly Research Laboratories. Before his time at Lilly, he spent 18 years at the National Institutes of Health, serving as the scientific director of the National Institute of Mental Health. Steve's remarkable contributions have earned him numerous prestigious awards, and he has actively participated in many committees and advisory boards throughout his career. He is the author or co-author of over 550 scientific papers and book chapters, solidifying his impact on the field. Currently, Steve serves as a Venture Partner at Third Rock Ventures and is the recent founder of Seaport Therapeutics. Join me as we explore Steve’s extraordinary journey and gain insights into the future of neuroscience and drug development.

    56 min
  2. 02/20/2025

    S2 E3: A Between The Biotech Waves Conversation with Stan Crooke, Ionis & N-Lorem Founder

    In today's episode, I am honored to welcome Stanley Crooke, the founder and CEO of Ionis Pharmaceuticals the first and leading antisense oligonucleotide biotech and founder, CEO and Chair of N-Lorem, a not for profit entity developing ASOs for ultra rare diseases. Stan is THE pioneer in the field of antisense oligonucleotide based RNA-targeted therapies. With a deep passion for science and innovation, Stan has dedicated his career to transforming the landscape of drug discovery and development, resulting in groundbreaking therapies that address some of the most challenging diseases. Stan's journey in biotechnology is truly inspiring, he comes from a humble beginning in Indianapolis, he was the first in his family to graduate high school, following which he studied pharmacy and ultimately went on to obtain an MD and PhD, following which he embarked on a path that united his clinical expertise with cutting-edge research. Under his leadership, Ionis has become a leader in the development of antisense oligonucleotide technology, paving the way for new treatments for genetic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and many others. Throughout his career, Stan has emphasized the importance of collaboration and scientific rigor, and he has been instrumental in fostering partnerships that drive innovation in the industry. Join us as we explore Stan Crooke’s remarkable journey, his vision for the future of biotechnology, and the impact of Ionis Pharmaceuticals on patients worldwide.

    1h 5m
  3. 01/31/2025

    S2 E2: A Between the Biotech Waves Conversation with Peter Barrett

    Welcome to ‘Between the Biotech Waves,’ the podcast where we navigate the dynamic world of biotechnology and explore the minds driving its innovation. I’m your host, Nessan Bermingham, and today, we have a true visionary in the field, Peter Barrett. Peter is a partner at Atlas Venture, where he has been a key player in the creation of numerous novel therapeutic and drug discovery platform companies. With an unyielding passion for advancing healthcare, Peter has been directly involved in co-founding, building, investing and supporting numerous companies including Celera Genomics, Alynlam Therapeutics and Momenta, to name just a few. Known for his entrepreneurial spirit, Peter co-founded Celera Genomics, where he led groundbreaking work that culminated in the first successful sequencing of the human genome in 2001. His strategic insights propelled Celera into the public arena, and his leadership has shaped the trajectory of many biotech companies over the years. In addition to his roles in the biotech sector, Peter is an Executive Fellow at Harvard Business School and serves as the faculty chair of the advisory board for the prestigious Blavatnik Fellowship Program, helping to cultivate the next generation of leaders in science and business. Join me as we engage in a fascinating conversation with Peter Barrett, delving into his remarkable journey, the evolution of biotechnology, and the innovative spirit that drives his work.

    54 min

Ratings & Reviews

4.9
out of 5
21 Ratings

About

Between the Biotech Waves—discussing recent developments and market dynamics impacting the biotech sector.