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DR. SHIN MUKAI

CO-FOUNDER, CEO, CHIEF SCIENTIFIC OFFICER

Shin appears in the Top 100 

Innovators & Entrepreneurs Magazine

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Dr. Shin Mukai

Within the domain of cancer research, Dr. Shin Mukai emerges as a symbol of hope and innovation. As the co-founder, chief executive officer, and chief scientific officer of New Wind Therapeutics L3C, his mission is both noble and personal. Having lost his father to the pervasive disease, Shin is determined to eradicate it.

Over the past 15 years, Shin has proven himself to be a trailblazing chemical biologist and entrepreneur whose unique set of skills bridges the worlds of synthetic organic/medicinal chemistry and biology/immunology. Always willing to embrace challenges and step outside his comfort zone, Shin believes that creativity, enthusiasm, and courage are paramount in effecting meaningful change in the world.

At New Wind Therapeutics L3C, Shin is not only a leader, but a visionary. He shapes the company's overarching goals and purposes, paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in cancer research. His responsibilities, however, extend well beyond strategic development; he also leads the research team in the preclinical development of novel small-molecule anti-cancer drugs, fostering an environment of innovation and scientific excellence. His leadership is marked by a commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists and maintaining clear communication with stakeholders ranging from donors to regulatory bodies.

Central to New Wind Therapeutics' mission is its unique structure as a Low-Profit Limited Liability Company (L3C), where social impact takes precedence alongside scientific advancement. By bridging the gap between academia and the pharmaceutical industry, New Wind Therapeutics aims to maximize positive social outcomes while driving scientific breakthroughs. Shin envisions the company as a guiding light of hope in the Valley of Death, where promising research often languishes without industry investment.

Beyond his role at New Wind Therapeutics, Shin is dedicated to strengthening global connections and fostering future leaders. He serves as a Council Leader at The U.S.-Japan Council, advocating for collaborative scientific and medical research between the two nations. Additionally, as a Subject Matter Expert at Harvard Alumni Entrepreneurs, Shin supports leaders and innovators across Harvard Schools, sharing his expertise and inspiring others to pursue their passions.

Shin's educational journey spans continents and disciplines, from earning his bachelor's and master's degrees in chemistry at Kyoto University, to completing his PhD in bio-organic chemistry at The University of Western Australia. He further honed his skills through postdoctoral training at prestigious institutions such as Brigham and Women's Hospital/Harvard Medical School and entrepreneurship education at Harvard Business School. His diverse experiences, including work at Sanofi, have equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of both academia and the pharmaceutical industry.

Shin's contributions to cancer research extend further than the laboratory. He has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Australian Postgraduate Award and the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) Travel Grant for his outstanding research achievements. His patented treatment for chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease stands as a testament to his commitment to improving patient outcomes. Additionally, Shin's prolific publication record and role as an academic editor underscore his stature within the scientific and medical communities.

In the ever-evolving landscape of cancer research, Shin remains a steadfast advocate for progress and social impact. We spoke with him to learn more about his mission.

Shin, can you tell us about your current career positions and how they contribute to the community beyond your role at New Wind Therapeutics L3C?

In addition to my responsibilities at New Wind Therapeutics L3C, I hold significant roles aimed at fostering broader connections and promoting leadership development. Firstly, I serve as a council leader at The U.S.-Japan Council, where I focus on enhancing the relationship between the US and Japan, with a specific emphasis on advancing scientific and medical research while nurturing the next generation of leaders in both nations. Secondly, I act as a subject matter expert at Harvard Alumni Entrepreneurs, supporting the global community of leaders and innovators across all Harvard Schools. These positions allow me to extend my impact beyond the confines of the workplace, contributing to the greater good and facilitating positive change on a larger scale.

What inspired the establishment of New Wind Therapeutics L3C?

I am driven by a desire to carve out my own path and make a lasting impact on the world. The decision to launch New Wind Therapeutics L3C was both deeply personal and driven by professional aspirations. Having witnessed firsthand the profound effects of cancer on individuals and families, including my own experiences, I felt compelled to take action. My vision for New Wind Therapeutics L3C was centered on charting a course towards tangible progress in the battle against cancer.

Why is it essential to foster the growth of future scientific leaders?

Beyond the realm of drug development, New Wind Therapeutics L3C recognizes the vital importance of nurturing the next generation of scientific leaders. This commitment to mentorship and innovation reflects our overarching mission to eliminate cancer. By investing in the development of emerging talent, we aim to cultivate a legacy of expertise and enthusiasm that will drive future advancements in the fight against cancer.

Lastly, Shin, as you push the boundaries of cancer research innovation, New Wind Therapeutics is also uniquely positioned to address the "Valley of Death" gap between academia and the pharmaceutical industry. Can you elaborate on this?

Our focus is on advancing preclinical research to pioneer novel anti-cancer drugs. Operating as an L3C, New Wind Therapeutics marries the efficiency of a for-profit entity (pharmaceutical company) with the heart of a non-profit organization (academic research institute). My passion lies in cancer research, driven not by financial gain but by a deep-seated commitment to defeating cancer and making a positive global impact. Our aim is not centered on amassing substantial profits; rather, it's about revolutionizing cancer treatment and leaving a lasting legacy of progress.

 

Dr. Shin Mukai
Co-Founder, Chief Executive Officer, and Chief Scientific Officer
New Wind Therapeutics L3C
Website: https://newwindl3c.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shin-mukai-phd-32419640

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