 |
 |
Alan Olivero Associate Director: Discovery Chemistry |
"After working five years in the fine chemical industry, in 1993 I joined Genentech as a scientist in what is now known as the Discovery Chemistry department. I was originally attracted to Genentech because of the company's reputation for innovative research and it's focus on science. The bright and enthusiastic people, the "work hard-play hard" atmosphere, and the unique corporate culture, continue to make Genentech a terrific place to work. Early in my career here, I worked in collaboration with the Cardiovascular department, designing and discovering novel small molecule anti-thrombotics and anti-platelet agents (in particular, inhibitors of Tissue Factor/VIIa and antagonists of IIbIIIa)."
Current Projects "Today, I am an associate director in the Discovery Chemistry department and much of my work focuses on the discovery of small molecule oncology drugs. The effort requires working in multi-disciplinary teams with the unified goal of identifying novel, small molecule inhibitors of cancer signaling. Using molecular structure-driven approaches, Genentech medicinal chemists design and synthesize new molecules that selectively bind to the desired biological target and, in turn, inhibit a particular cancer signaling event. The discovery process involves multi-parameter optimization of molecules for optimal potency, selectivity, pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmaceutical properties. While I am still very much involved in the design and discovery of new inhibitors, much of my role today focuses on leading the various chemistry, project and early development teams which passionately pursue the goal of finding new therapies for unmet medical needs."
Collaborations "Over the years, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with numerous departments and individuals here at Genentech. Currently I am involved in many, fruitful collaborations with members of the Drug Metabolism/Pharmacokinetic (DMPK), Cancer Signaling, Protein Engineering/Crystallography, and Biochemical Pharmacology departments. In addition, I have also had the great pleasure to work with numerous external collaborators, both within the pharmaceutical industry, as well as at academic institutions."
Inspiration/Vision "I am constantly inspired by my many colleagues here at Genentech and their dedication to bringing new therapies to patients. Through their passion for science and creative energy, difficult objectives such as curing cancer, seem possible. I find it very rewarding to contribute to these multi-disciplinary teams that are working diligently towards such a vision."