Derek Di Rocco
About Derek Di Rocco
Derek Di Rocco is a Director at Rivus Pharmaceuticals and Mineralys Therapeutics, Inc., with extensive experience in the biotechnology sector. He holds a PhD in Pharmacology and has served in various leadership roles across multiple organizations, including RA Capital Management and Acrivon Therapeutics.
Current Roles at Rivus Pharmaceuticals and Mineralys Therapeutics
Derek Di Rocco has been serving as Director at Rivus Pharmaceuticals since 2022. In this role, he contributes to the strategic direction and management of the company. Additionally, he holds the position of Director at Mineralys Therapeutics, Inc., also since 2022. His responsibilities in both organizations involve overseeing projects and guiding teams to achieve their objectives.
Experience at Acrivon Therapeutics and Werewolf Therapeutics
Since 2021, Derek Di Rocco has been a Director at Acrivon Therapeutics, Inc. and Werewolf Therapeutics. In these roles, he is involved in directing initiatives that align with the companies' missions in advancing therapeutic solutions. His leadership is essential in navigating the complexities of the pharmaceutical landscape.
Professional Background in Capital Management
Derek Di Rocco has extensive experience in capital management, having worked at RA Capital Management, L.P. since 2013. He progressed from Analyst to Associate and then to Principal before becoming a Partner in 2020. His role involves identifying investment opportunities and providing strategic guidance to portfolio companies.
Educational Background in Biology and Pharmacology
Derek Di Rocco earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the College of the Holy Cross, where he studied from 1998 to 2002. He furthered his education at the University of Washington - School of Medicine, obtaining a PhD in Pharmacology from 2004 to 2009. His academic background provides a strong foundation for his work in the pharmaceutical industry.
Research Contributions and Board Memberships
Derek Di Rocco has made significant contributions to research, including studying the Wnt signaling pathway in mouse models of kidney disease and participating in the discovery of a stem cell subtype linked to solid organ fibrosis. He serves on the boards of several companies, including 89Bio, iTeos Therapeutics, Connect Bio, CANbridge, and Werewolf Therapeutics, where he provides strategic oversight.