Careers in Discovery

Marco Schmidt, biotx.ai

This week on Careers in Discovery, we sat down with Marco Schmidt, CSO of biotx.ai, to talk about AI, Biotech, and the future of drug discovery.

Marco’s career has taken him from Biochemistry to Biotech start-ups, where he’s using causal inference to reshape clinical trials and drug development. We explored the evolution of AI in science, the rise of tech-bio companies, and why he believes this is the best time in history to be a scientist.

We also got into the mindset shift needed for scientists moving into business - and why failure isn’t just inevitable, but essential.

Join us for a really thought-provoking episode.

Tommi Kainu, GlyProVac

This week on Careers in Discovery, we’re joined by Tommi Kainu, Chairman of GlyProVac, a Biotech developing bacterial vaccines with the potential to tackle antimicrobial resistance.

Tommi’s career has taken him from medicine and research to consulting at BCG and leadership roles in Biotech. He shared insights on GlyProVac’s work, why commercial thinking is key in drug development, and lessons from his time at Bavarian Nordic - including the unexpected rise of the MPOX vaccine.

His advice for scientists moving into industry? Start with the end in mind.

A great conversation on science, strategy, and the business of Biotech.

Martijn Van De Bunt, Cytoki Pharma

This week, Emma spoke with Martijn Van De Bunt, Chief Scientific Officer at Cytoki Pharma, a pioneering Biotech in Denmark developing IL-22-based therapies for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease. Martijn shared insights from his journey from medicine and academia to leading a lean, globally connected Biotech team advancing transformative therapies.

Martijn discussed the pivotal moments in his career, from a PhD at Oxford that sparked his passion for impactful science, to his tenure at Novo Nordisk, and ultimately to joining Cytoki Pharma. Along the way, he emphasised the importance of adaptability, the nuances of transitioning between academia and industry, and the role of networks and teamwork in achieving success.

With Cytoki Pharma approaching critical milestones in their clinical studies, Martijn also reflected on the challenges and excitement of developing ground-breaking treatments in a dynamic Biotech environment. Tune in for a conversation packed with advice on career growth, the evolution of drug discovery, and the human side of building innovative Biotech companies.

Jordi Carreras-Puigvert, Phenaros Pharmaceuticals

This week, we welcomed Jordi Carreras-Puigvert, Chief Scientific Officer and Co-Founder of Phenaros, a Swedish company revolutionising drug discovery at the intersection of artificial intelligence and life sciences. Jordi shared his journey from personal tragedy inspiring a career in science, to leading a cutting-edge platform combining high-content microscopy and AI to accelerate therapeutic development, especially in rare diseases.

Jordi delved into his unconventional career path, including his foundational work in phenotypic drug discovery, insights on transitioning from academia to biotech, and the critical role of mentorship and networking in shaping his success. He also explored the transformative potential of AI in drug development, emphasising the importance of generating high-quality data to drive innovation.

Listen in for a brilliant conversation about leveraging technology to address unmet medical needs, and the power of adaptability in forging a meaningful career in science.

Henri Huttunen, Herantis Pharma

In this episode of Careers in Discovery, Emma sits down with Henri Huttunen, Chief Scientific Officer at Herantis Pharma, a Finnish biotech developing ground-breaking therapies for Parkinson’s and related neurodegenerative diseases. Henri shares the exciting progress on their next-generation molecule that crosses the blood-brain barrier and their innovative approach to tackling the challenges of clinical trials in this field.

Henri reflects on his journey, from his early days in academic research to founding start-ups and leading Herantis’ mission to develop disease-modifying treatments. He talks about the importance of balancing scientific rigour with innovation, navigating the risks of challenging established dogmas, and the role personal passion plays in driving success.

This episode is packed with insights into the cutting edge of neurodegenerative research, the lessons learned from taking bold career steps, and the inspiration behind Henri’s dedication to improving patients’ lives. Tune in for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation.

 

Arvid Söderhall, Empros Pharma

In this episode of Careers in Discovery, Emma is joined by Arvid Söderhall, the first employee and project lead at Empros Pharma, as he shares his unique journey from physicist to biotech innovator. Arvid unveils the vision behind Empros Pharma’s pioneering work to combat obesity with a pharmaceutical approach to gastric bypass surgery.

Emma and Arvid’s conversation delves into the evolution of Empros Pharma, the challenges of developing innovative treatments in a competitive field, and the critical importance of adapting to an ever-changing market landscape. Arvid also reflects on his career trajectory, discovering his leadership potential, and the value of seizing unexpected opportunities along the way.

A must-listen episode for biotech enthusiasts, aspiring leaders, and anyone passionate about making an impact in the life sciences industry.

 

Jonas Dyhrfjeld-Johnsen, Acousia Therapeutics

This week on Careers in Discovery, we’re joined by Jonas Dyhrfjeld-Johnsen, Chief Development Officer and Managing Director at Acousia Therapeutics, a company developing innovative therapies to preserve and restore hearing.

Jonas shares his journey from academic Biophysics to Biotech leadership, reflecting on the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. We discuss Acousia’s groundbreaking work targeting sensory hair cells and their Phase 2 trial aimed at preventing chemotherapy-induced hearing loss, as well as the challenges and rewards of leading a lean, virtual Biotech.

An inspiring conversation about tackling a major global health issue and building a meaningful career in science.

David Gray, Vigil Neuroscience

Could microglia hold the key to treating neurodegenerative diseases? This week on Careers in Discovery, Emma Hobbs is with David Gray, Chief Scientific Officer at Vigil Neuroscience, who is pioneering new approaches to harness the brain’s immune system.

David shares his unique career journey, from aspiring author to leading drug discovery programs at Pfizer and now in Biotech. He reflects on the power of curiosity, mentorship, and cross-disciplinary learning that shaped his path to leadership.

In this episode, David and Emma discuss Vigil's ground-breaking work in targeting ALSP and Alzheimer’s disease, the lessons he’s learned transitioning from big pharma to Biotech, and why having fun is essential to building a fulfilling scientific career.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about leadership, innovation, and advancing treatments for patients in need.