Dr. Leen Kawas, the Managing General Partner of Propel Bio Partners, has embarked on a remarkable journey in the biotechnology industry. Despite starting her career as a pharmacist, Dr. Kawas pursued a Ph.D. and has since become a prominent figure, having successfully led two biotechnology companies.

In a recent appearance on the Recruitomics Consulting Podcast on April 2, 2024, Dr. Kawas shared valuable insights on building effective teams, emphasizing the importance of diversity in clinical trials, and advocating for patient involvement throughout the drug development process.

As Propel Bio Partners grows, Dr. Kawas diligently seeks candidates with the right mindset and potential to contribute to the company’s expansion. She values individuals who embrace growth, approach problems with a fresh perspective, and exhibit innovation. Dr. Kawas recognizes the unique value that professionals new to the biotech industry can bring as they offer fresh ideas and enthusiasm. Moreover, she understands the significance of a positive work environment where team members enjoy collaborating and executing their vision with a sense of fun.

Dr. Kawas is a strong advocate for diversity in clinical trials, both in terms of management teams and patient selection. She believes diverse trial managers, particularly women and minorities, can enhance patient participation from underrepresented demographic groups. By ensuring that clinical trials reflect the diversity of society, drug developers can gain a more accurate understanding of how a specific drug will impact a broader population. This, in turn, can lead to more successful outcomes and significant returns on investment.

In addition to diversity, Dr. Kawas is passionate about increasing patient involvement throughout the drug development cycle. She believes patients should be integral to each phase, from drug discovery to development, rather than being invited to participate only when the cycle is near completion. This conviction stems from her experience conducting patient feedback sessions to understand why certain drugs fail. By incorporating the patients’ voices in clinical design, Dr. Kawas aims to improve outcomes and ensure that the developed drugs meet patients’ needs.

Looking ahead, Dr. Kawas has set ambitious goals for the next decade. She aspires to invest in companies developing technologies to improve global human health. Additionally, she is committed to providing internship opportunities for students and recent graduates from diverse backgrounds, recognizing the importance of fostering the next generation of biotech professionals. Dr. Kawas also believes in giving back to future entrepreneurs, acknowledging the support she received throughout her career.

Dr. Leen Kawas’s journey in the biotechnology industry is a testament to her unwavering dedication to positively impacting human health. From her early ambition to cure cancer to her current role as a visionary leader, Dr. Kawas has consistently demonstrated her commitment to innovation, diversity, and patient-centric approaches. As she continues to drive Propel Bio Partners forward, her influence on the biotechnology landscape is set to grow, paving the way for groundbreaking advancements and improved patient outcomes.