Session Chair Profile
M.D., MBA, VP and Head, Regeneron Genetics Center
Biography
Dr. Baras serves as Vice President, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and Head of the Regeneron Genetics Center (RGC), one of the largest human genetics programs in the world, spanning large-scale sequencing, informatics, and translational sciences using human genetics to advance and guide the development of Regeneron’s pipeline of important new medicines. He has established and leads several foundational genomics collaborations, such as with the Geisinger Health System to sequence at least 250,000 participants and with the UK Biobank to sequence 500,000 participants. The RGC has produced many high impact discoveries identifying new drug targets (such as HSD17B13 in chronic liver diseases), validating existing development programs (Regeneron’s evinacumab program targeting ANGPTL3, REGN3500 targeting IL33, and many more), and contributing important new gene discoveries and precision medicine strategies. The RGC has sequenced more than 300,000 individuals to date, collaborating with more than 60 institutions around the world, and plans to sequence the genomes of millions of participants across its studies. Previously, Dr. Baras held roles and responsibilities at Regeneron across R&D and business development. Prior to Regeneron, Dr. Baras contributed to other biotechnology ventures and conducted research spanning antibody based therapeutics, cancer research, and nanotechnology applications in drug development. Dr. Baras received his Bachelor’s of Science, M.D., and M.B.A., all from Duke University.
Session Abstract – PMWC 2017 Silicon Valley
Session Synopsis: Genomic discovery has fueled major advances in medicine and drug discovery spanning rare diseases, cancer and broader precision medicine initiatives. Leaders of large-scale human genetics programs share their experiences and perspectives on the biggest successes, challenges and overall potential for the future of human genetics in transforming science to medicine.
