David Johnson

About

Life sciences professional with 9+ years of experience spanning translational research, biotech operations, and venture diligence. Leads complex workstreams, analyzes operational and market data, and translates scientific insight into actionable business recommendations, with experience in stakeholder engagement, process analysis, and technology-enabled decision-making.

Experience

• Business Lead · POKO Therapeutics01-01-2026

  POKO Therapeutics is a stealth‑mode biotechnology startup spun out of the University of Michigan, developing novel therapies aimed at slowing or preventing the progression of post‑traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). As Business Lead, I work directly with the CEO to assist with: Fundraising, Target Product Profile (TPP) Development, Customer discovery (Completed NSF I-Corps March 2026), and CRO identification for manufacturing.

• Invent Scholar · Seattle Children's Research Institute07-01-2022 – 01-01-2026

  • Designed and led translational oncology program evaluating TrkA agonists for neuroblastoma in collaboration with the David Baker Lab; generated preprint and potential IP filing. • Researcher at the Cancer Vaccine Institute; optimized colon cancer vaccine development, improving antigen selection and process reproducibility (Frontiers in Immunology, 2025). • Secured internship with the clinical development team to gain exposure to IND-enabling studies, trial design, and Investigational Brochure preparation. • Selected for Venture Capital University (UC Berkeley/NVCA) and Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Venture Consultant, gaining formal venture diligence training.

• Venture Analyst · Accelerator Life Science Partners09-01-2024 – 03-01-2025

  • Evaluated 10 biotech companies in immuno-oncology, gene therapy, and synthetic biology, conducting diligence on mechanism, IP, and market opportunity • Assisted with Target Product Profile development; TAM/SAM analyses for ALSP’s portfolio company Kayothera • Supported go/no-go discussions with the VP of Investments

Education

• Cold Spring Habor School of Biological SciencesPh.D., Biological Sciences
• Brown UniversityBSc, Molecular neurobiology / translational genetics (as reflected by completed summer research programs)

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