Ryan Watts is the CEO and co-founder of Denali Therapeutics, a company dedicated to developing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. With a background in neuroscience and a personal drive fueled by his experiences, Watts leads Denali in its mission to combat conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. His leadership is marked by a commitment to innovation and a deep understanding of the challenges in the biotech field.
Who is the CEO of Denali Therapeutics?
Ryan Watts, the CEO and co-founder of Denali Therapeutics, has a distinguished background in neuroscience. At Genentech, he led significant advancements in drug discovery for cancer and Alzheimer's disease, including pioneering methods for delivering therapeutics across the blood-brain barrier. His leadership at Denali is driven by both professional expertise and personal motivation, particularly influenced by his mother's battle with Alzheimer's disease.
This blend of personal and professional dedication fuels his mission to develop groundbreaking treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.
Work History
- Denali Therapeutics - CEO (2015 to Present)
- Genentech - Director (2004 to 2015)
Education History
Ryan Watts has a robust educational background in the biological sciences. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Biology from the University of Utah, where he studied from 1994 to 2000. Following this, he pursued a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Biological Sciences at Stanford University, completing his doctoral studies between 2000 and 2004. This extensive academic training laid a strong foundation for his subsequent career in neuroscience and biotechnology.
When did Ryan Watts join Denali Therapeutics?
Ryan Watts co-founded Denali Therapeutics and has been serving as its CEO since the company's inception on January 1, 2015. With a strong background in neuroscience and a personal drive to combat neurodegenerative diseases, Watts has led the company for over eight years. His leadership at Denali is marked by a commitment to innovation and a deep understanding of the challenges in the biotech field, driven by both professional expertise and personal motivation.