Richard W. Welch Ph.D.
About Richard W. Welch Ph.D.
Richard W. Welch, Ph.D., serves as Vice President CMC at Sirnaomics, Inc. since 2021, where he has overseen the production of multiple siRNA-based drug products for oncology and metabolic diseases.
Work at Sirnaomics
Richard W. Welch, Ph.D. serves as the Vice President of CMC at Sirnaomics, Inc. since 2021. In this role, he has successfully produced over seven lots of siRNA-based active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and nine lots of drug products targeting multiple oncology and metabolic disease indications within the last two years. His leadership in CMC emphasizes the importance of quality and efficiency in drug development processes.
Previous Experience at Emergent BioSolutions
Prior to joining Sirnaomics, Richard W. Welch held various leadership roles at Emergent BioSolutions. He served as Vice President of Process and Analytical Development in the Biodefense Division and Vaccine Business Unit from 2011 to 2019. He also held the position of Vice President of Development Services within the CDMO business unit from 2019 to 2021. His tenure included responsibilities in process and analytical development, where he applied his extensive expertise in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Education and Expertise
Richard W. Welch earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Biochemistry from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, completing his studies from 1980 to 1984. He further advanced his education by obtaining a Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry from Rice University, where he studied from 1984 to 1990. His educational background provides a strong foundation for his over 27 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors.
Achievements in Drug Development
Throughout his career, Richard W. Welch has supported the filing of 28 Investigational New Drug (IND) applications and four successful license applications in the United States and Europe. He has utilized a novel, single-strand GalNac platform for broad targeting in drug product development. His experience includes working with a pilot facility in Guangzhou, China, to facilitate the transfer of various products and prepare for GMP production.
Leadership Roles and Industry Impact
Richard W. Welch has held significant leadership positions at Emergent BioSolutions, Lonza Microbial US, and Cambrex BioScience. His focus has been on drug substance and drug product development and manufacturing, where he has applied LEAN principles from commercial manufacturing to product development and program management. His extensive experience in the industry has contributed to advancements in pharmaceutical processes and product quality.