Michael Martinelli, PhD

Michael Martinelli, PhD

I am a distinguished pharmaceutical executive with over two decades of experience in drug discovery and development. My expertise in chemistry, manufacturing, and controls (CMC) has been instrumental in advancing several therapeutic agents from concept to clinical application. At FibroGen, Inc., I held the position of Vice President of Technical Development, overseeing CMC development activities for the company's leading small molecule clinical candidates, notably FG-4592 (roxadustat), which progressed to phase 2b development under my leadership.

My earlier career includes significant roles at major pharmaceutical companies such as Eli Lilly and Amgen, where I contributed to the synthesis of carbapenem antibiotics and other complex heterocycles. Currently, I serve as vice president at Exelixis, a biotechnology company specializing in oncology therapeutics, where I oversee the development of new treatments aimed at improving the lives of cancer patients.

As a senior-level executive, I have more than 15 years of success in improving human health through drug development. I maximize profitable revenue and sales opportunities by developing and advancing new drug therapies, pursuing scientific ideas that can be realized through extensive research and analysis. I achieve operational excellence by managing commercial and clinical supply chain strategies, leveraging supporting resources, and establishing results-focused objectives and timetables. I lead diverse technical development teams worldwide, attract and develop top talent, and transform underperforming facilities into capable, modern, efficient manufacturing plants.

Throughout my career, I have contributed to the development of multiple drug candidates, demonstrating a consistent ability to translate scientific innovation into therapeutic solutions. My work has advanced the pharmaceutical pipelines of the companies I have served and contributed to the broader field of drug discovery and development.

Key Milestone Expertise in Drug Discovery & Development:

  • Predevelopment (candidate selection)
  • IND enabling
  • Phase I-III trials

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