Li Zhang
About Li Zhang
Li Zhang serves as the Senior Director of Preclinical Research at AffaMed Therapeutics, where he leads projects in central nervous system and ophthalmology development. He has a strong background in neuroscience and pharmacology, with previous roles at Latigo Biotherapeutics, Amgen, and Janssen Pharmaceuticals.
Work at AffaMed Therapeutics
Li Zhang serves as the Senior Director of Preclinical Research at AffaMed Therapeutics, a position he has held since 2021. In this role, he leads projects focused on central nervous system (CNS) assets that are currently in preclinical development. Additionally, he provides scientific guidance on business development, particularly in-licensing opportunities. Zhang also acts as the project lead for an ophthalmology asset that is currently undergoing a Phase 1 study in the United States.
Previous Experience at Latigo Biotherapeutics
Before joining AffaMed Therapeutics, Li Zhang worked at Latigo Biotherapeutics, Inc. as a Senior Scientist from 2020 to 2021. His tenure at Latigo was marked by his contributions to biotherapeutic research in Thousand Oaks, California. This role followed his experience at Amgen, where he worked as a Scientist in Neuroscience for one year.
Postdoctoral Fellowship at Janssen Pharmaceuticals
Li Zhang completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship at Janssen, Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson and Johnson, from 2010 to 2013. During this three-year period in La Jolla, California, he engaged in research that contributed to the pharmaceutical field, focusing on innovative therapeutic solutions.
Educational Background in Neuropharmacology
Li Zhang earned his Ph.D. in Neuropharmacology from the University of California, Irvine, where he studied from 2003 to 2009. His academic journey began at Nanjing University, where he obtained a Bachelor's degree in Biology/Biological Sciences from 1999 to 2003. His educational background laid the foundation for his extensive career in biomedical research.
Research Experience at UC Irvine School of Medicine
During his time at the UC Irvine School of Medicine, Li Zhang worked as a Graduate Student Researcher from 2003 to 2009. This six-year experience allowed him to develop his research skills and contribute to various projects in the field of neuropharmacology, further preparing him for his subsequent roles in the industry.