313: Biotech layoffs, founder-focused VC, & a big pharma exit
Jul 11, 2024
auto_awesome
Jonathan Wosen discusses biotech layoffs, while Alexis Borisy and Zach Weinberg talk about their biotech incubator Curie.Bio. The podcast also covers Pfizer's leadership change and a new side effect of the diabetes drug Ozempic.
Biopharma layoffs impact larger companies due to patent expirations and revenue declines.
Pfizer navigates leadership changes amidst drug development challenges and addressing side effects.
Deep dives
Layoffs Shift in Pharma Industry
Layoffs in the drug industry reflect changes in the pharma landscape, predominantly affecting established pharma companies rather than startups. Job cuts are driven by factors like patents expiring, reduced COVID revenues, and the need to maintain profit margins.
Pfizer's Leadership Change and Obesity Drug Development
Pfizer faces leadership changes as its R&D chief departs amid questions about the company's post-COVID direction. Pfizer announced a new version of the obesity drug Danuglipron after setbacks with previous formulations, aiming to address weight loss concerns and pursue further studies.
New Side Effect of Diabetes Drug
Research links Ozempic to a rare eye condition called Nion, raising concerns about potential adverse effects. The study reveals elevated risks associated with somaglutide, the drug component in Ozempic, shedding light on previously unseen effects amid ongoing observations.
Biopharma Workforce Changes
Biopharma companies witness layoffs predominantly in large pharma firms, signaling a shift from cash-strapped startups. Workforce reductions are driven by factors like patent expirations, revenue declines, and strategic restructuring, impacting job security and industry dynamics.
STAT's West Coast biotech reporter Jonathan Wosen joins "The Readout LOUD" to discuss what’s driving workforce cuts. Plus, entrepreneurs Alexis Borisy and Zach Weinberg call in to discuss their biotech incubator Curie.Bio and how they hope to “free the founders.” We also discuss a big change in Pfizer’s leadership and the debate over a new side effect tied to the diabetes drug Ozempic.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode