Expanding the Exploration of Chemical Space

Abstract: This talk will present a number of case studies to address two questions pertinent to drug discovery: where do chemical starting points come from and how do we accelerate learning? The focus will be on approaches to expand chemical diversity, introduce innovation, and leverage technology to accelerate design-make-test cycles.

Bio: Andy received his BSc degree in chemistry from Miami University followed by his PhD degree in organic chemistry from MIT under the supervision of Professor Stephen Buchwald. He joined GSK in 1997 where, over the course of ~25 years, he rose to the level of Senior Director and was elected as a Senior Scientific Fellow.

In 2022, Andy joined Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine (JJIM) as the Site Head of Discovery Chemistry at Spring House PA. His team, which has ranged in size from 30-50 chemists, is focused on the discovery of small molecule and peptide therapeutics. The latter includes the recent discovery of Icotyde®, a macrocyclic peptide inhibitor of IL-23 developed in partnership with Protagonist, that is awaiting FDA review of a New Drug Application. Andy is also responsible for leading numerous global, cross-functional initiative within JJIM, including the application of AIML strategies for Lead Optimization.

Andy’s track record of drug discovery includes inventorship of a Phase 3 enabled asset, 3 positive clinical Proof-of-Concept decisions, 4 First-Time-in-Human completions, and numerous Development Candidates spanning diverse therapy areas and modalities. Andy led a global clinical development team that successfully advanced an asset for severe respiratory tract infections from Development Candidate to Phase 2b studies, securing FDA Fast Track designation. As part of these roles, he has served as an external-facing leader to government task-forces (BARDA), public-private partnerships (Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation), professional organizations (ACS, Pharma Leaders), and Joint Steering Committees responsible for research collaborations.

This chemistry seminar, hosted by Professor Andrei Yudin, will take place in a hybrid format, allowing for both in-person and online attendance. The zoom link for virtual attendees will be shared in the "Upcoming Events" announcement for the week of March 16-20.

Zoom Link: https://uoft.me/Peat2026
Meeting ID: 876 4409 4555
Passcode: Colloq2526

If you are a student at UTM and UTSC and would be interested in attending this colloquium in person (travel expenses covered) and meeting our invited speaker, please send your request to chem.reception@utoronto.ca.

All are encouraged to attend!