Biotech is where ideas in the life sciences gain traction to become the medicines of tomorrow. And while these ideas hold great potential, biotech leaders often need to chart a difficult course to bring them to fruition.

From the most daunting biological problems that come with diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS and more to the intricacies of designing ultra-precise drugs targeting cancer and immune disorders, these leaders from large companies and tiny startups alike are finding the path forward in challenging therapeutic areas. And they’re taking the rest of the industry along with them, driving innovation that has the potential to transform what biotech looks like down the road.

Here are this year’s Biotech Pathfinders.

Shelley Force Aldred

“There are a lot of great teams that just need a chance to show what they can do.” Read more ➔

Lyn Baranowski

“Opportunities to help patients in big ways provide endless motivation.” Read more ➔

David Bearss

“Good science is good medicine, and good medicine is good business.” Read more ➔

Howard Berman

“We have to keep pushing for better treatment options that do more than just treat symptoms.” Read more ➔

Sarah Boyce

“We are fulfilling our promise to profoundly improve people’s lives by revolutionizing the delivery of RNA therapeutics.” Read more ➔

Dr. Michael Ehlers

“As a scientist and entrepreneur, I’m excited to create and grow the next generation of breakthrough biotechs.” Read more ➔

Julie Gilmore

“The opportunity to accelerate the rate of promising novel sciences and medicines in the life sciences is incredibly exciting.” Read more ➔

Jennifer Good

“The patient viewpoint is so critical to getting our therapies right.” Read more ➔

Avak Kahvejian

“Great leaders in life sciences wholeheartedly live their vision and mission while staying rooted in the scientific method.” Read more ➔

Dr. Andrew Scharenberg

“A great leader achieves two outcomes: bringing innovative, life-saving medicines to market while helping nurture the next generation of talent.” Read more ➔

Mari Anne Snow

“The financial constraints experienced by life science startups require teams like mine to create our own unique pathways.” Read more ➔

Ryan Spencer

“New vaccines have the potential to alleviate the burden of infectious disease and improve our healthcare infrastructure.” Read more ➔

Brian Taylor

“In this industry, we’re undergoing a pivotal transformation that continues to accelerate.” Read more ➔