Advisor to Early-Stage Biotech Founders
Advisor to early-stage biotech startups, helping teams turn complex science into focused, capital-efficient development programs with real patient impact.
Advisory Scope Summary
Scientific & Translational Strategy Help founders translate complex biology into clear, testable development strategies with defined go/no-go decision points Design capital-efficient preclinical and IND-enabling roadmaps aligned with clinical and investment milestones Stress-test scientific hypotheses and data packages for translational relevance and credibility Early-Stage Company Building Support founders in shaping scientific vision, product strategy, and early portfolio focus Advise on team design, hiring priorities, and building a high-functioning early R&D organization Provide founder-level judgment on when to push, pivot, or stop programs Rare Disease & Novel Modality Expertise Guide indication selection and prioritization in rare and pediatric diseases, including use of natural history data and biomarker strategies Advise on early clinical development considerations where precedent is limited Support development strategies for novel or first-in-class therapeutic platforms Capital Strategy & Fundraising Support Align scientific milestones with fundraising narratives and value inflection points Advise on non-dilutive funding strategies (e.g., SBIR/STTR, patient-advocacy and foundation programs) Support founders in scientific storytelling for investors, boards, and partners External Partnerships & Ecosystem Building Advise on building and managing CRO, academic, and clinical collaborations Provide guidance on engaging patient advocacy groups and key opinion leaders early Support preparation for interactions with regulators and development agencies Operational Problem-Solving Identify and resolve scientific, translational, or manufacturing bottlenecks that block progress Help teams prioritize the few experiments that matter most under resource constraints Bring an experienced, objective perspective during moments of uncertainty or transition
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About the listing author
Agnes Rafalko, PhD, is a biotech founder and translational science leader with over 15 years of experience advancing first-in-class therapies from early discovery…
Agnes Rafalko, PhD, is a biotech founder and translational science leader with over 15 years of experience advancing first-in-class therapies from early discovery…