Dr. Leen Kawas, the Managing General Partner of Propel Bio Partners, has had a remarkable journey in the biotechnology industry. Despite starting her career as a pharmacist, Dr. Kawas pursued her passion for research and earned a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology. Her unwavering dedication to improving human health has made her a prominent figure in the field.
In a recent appearance on the Recruitomics Consulting Podcast, Dr. Kawas shared valuable insights on building effective teams, the importance of diversity in clinical trials, and the need for patient involvement in drug development. As Propel Bio Partners grows, Dr. Kawas is focused on recruiting individuals with a growth mindset, embracing innovation, and bringing a fresh perspective. She believes a team with diverse backgrounds and a sense of fun is crucial for successful collaboration and execution of ideas.
Dr. Kawas strongly advocates for increased diversity in clinical trial management and patient selection. She emphasizes that diversity in the management team is essential for the success of clinical trials and the recruitment of the right patient population. By including more women and minorities in these roles, Dr. Kawas believes that patient participation from these demographic groups will be enhanced. Additionally, she stresses the importance of diversity in clinical trial patient selection, as it better represents how a drug will impact a significant portion of society.
One of Dr. Kawas’ most notable contributions to drug development is her commitment to patient involvement. She firmly believes that patients should be included in every discovery and development phase rather than invited to participate only when the development cycle is near completion. This dedication to patient feedback stems from her experience conducting sessions to determine why certain drugs fail. By incorporating the patients’ voices in the clinical design, Dr. Kawas aims to improve outcomes and ensure that the developed drugs meet the needs of those they are intended to help.
Looking ahead, Dr. Kawas has ambitious goals for the next decade. She aspires to invest in companies developing technologies to improve human health globally. Additionally, she is committed to providing internship opportunities for students and recent graduates from diverse backgrounds, recognizing the importance of nurturing the next generation of biotechnology professionals. Dr. Kawas also strongly believes in giving back to future entrepreneurs, acknowledging the support and guidance she received throughout her career.
Dr. Leen Kawas’ journey in the biotechnology industry is a testament to her unwavering dedication to improving human health. From her early aspirations to cure cancer to her current role as a visionary leader, Dr. Kawas has consistently demonstrated her commitment to innovation, diversity, and patient-centered approaches. As she continues to drive Propel Bio Partners forward, her influence and impact on the biotechnology landscape will surely be felt for years.