William Pao ’97 PhD, ’98 MD, an esteemed alumnus of our institution, has published a groundbreaking new book titled Breakthrough: The Quest for Life-Changing Medicines. Dr. Pao's illustrious career as a physician-scientist has spanned academia, industry, and biotechnology, making significant contributions to the field of medical science.
Motivated by the loss of his father to cancer at the age of 13, Dr. Pao embarked on a journey to combat this devastating disease. He began his career as a thoracic oncologist, lab researcher, and clinical investigator at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York. He later joined Vanderbilt University in Nashville, where he served as the Division Chief of Hematology/Oncology.
Dr. Pao's expertise and leadership extended to the pharmaceutical industry, where he held prominent positions such as Chief Development Officer for Pfizer and Head of the Roche Pharma Research & Early Development unit. In these roles, he oversaw the discovery and development of numerous new molecular entities, many of which have been approved to treat a variety of diseases, from cancer to rare blood disorders.
Throughout his career, Dr. Pao has advised numerous professional associations, served on the editorial boards of prestigious medical research journals, and received multiple awards and recognitions. He is currently the CEO and co-founder of a cancer biotechnology company, continuing his mission to improve patient care and outcomes.
In his new book, Breakthrough: The Quest for Life-Changing Medicines, Dr. Pao delves into the intricate and often unpredictable journey of drug discovery. He charts the development of eight revolutionary drugs, highlighting the innovative spirit and relentless dedication of scientists working to bring new treatments to patients. The book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs of medical research, celebrating the collaborative efforts and serendipitous moments that lead to breakthroughs.
Dr. Pao's work not only sheds light on the complexities of drug development but also inspires a broader culture of innovation that can be applied to various fields, including technology, business, careers, politics, and life.
We congratulate Dr. Pao on his remarkable achievements and his continued contributions to the advancement of medical science. His new book is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and collaboration in the pursuit of better healthcare for all.