Shahin Gharakhanian MD, DPH

Dr. Shahin Gharakhanian MD, is a Pharmaceutical Executive with expertise in Pharmaceutical Medicine, Leadership/Management, and operational experience both in the US & in Europe. A physician specialized in HIV Medicine, Clinical Virology, Infectious Diseases, Internal Medicine, he was trained at AP-HP [Assistance Publique–Hopitâux de Paris] & University of Paris, France. AP-HP is the largest hospital system in Europe, one of the largest worldwide. SG holds EU medical licensure, French Board of Internal Medicine certification, his sub-specialty being Infectious Diseases. He has also obtained United States ECFMG Certification, degrees in Public Health, Tropical Medicine & International Health, trained in Viral Hepatitis and Biostatistics.

He practiced clinical medicine (full- or part-time) for over 20 years in AP-HP Hospitals. SG joined the pharmaceutical industry in 1991, progressing to Vice-President of Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc., Medicines Development Group, Global R&D in Cambridge MA, USA, with roles in 3 main areas, i.e. Clinical Development, Medical Affairs, Strategic Leadership including membership in the corporate Operating Council. Overall, within industry, he has held positions ranging from General Manager of a Contract Research Organization to Program Executive leading product development, regulatory approval/launch thus including projects for 12 companies, 10 brands, 4 drug launches, in multiple therapeutic areas covering Asia, Canada, EU, USA.

He has authored/co-authored ~150 conference abstracts, book chapters, peer-reviewed publications, reports & training courses. He thus has extensive track record in medical education as well as training of pharmaceutical staff. SG has founded, built, organized full functional departments/units for biotechnology companies or hospitals as well as two LLCs as an entrepreneur. He is a member of several international societies. His passion is Patient-focused programs for drug & vaccine development, approval and launch.