In this 'On the Couch' special, Henry Jennings sits down with two small-cap biotechs and one fund manager to discuss what makes a successful biotech, and how to invest successfully in the cutting edge of medical science and drug treatments.


Dr Michelle Miller, Managing Director at Biotron Ltd - Market Cap $23.5m

• Over 25 years in the biotech industry with extensive experience in commercial drug development.
• Since 2002 has been Chief Executive Officer at Biotron.

Biotron

Developing lead compound BIT225 for the treatment of HIV-1 and Hepatitis C. Two fully recruited Phase 2 HIV-1 trials underway in Sydney and Thailand, results expected mid-2023. Added a COVID-19 sub-study to one of its HIV-1 trials, with any participant of the trial being infected with SARS-CoV-2 being included. Results also expected mid-2023.


Gary Phillips, Chief Executive Officer at Pharmaxis - Market Cap $38m

• Joined Pharmaxis in 2003 and was Commercial Director and Chief Operating Officer before being appointed Chief Executive Officer in 2013.

Pharmaxis

Developing drugs for inflammatory and fibrotic diseases with a focus on bone marrow cancer myelofibrosis. 5 trials underway with multiple near-term value opportunities. PXS-5505 for myelofibrosis is in Phase 2 with a data readout expected mid-23. Also developing PXS-6302 as a topical skin scarring treatment, led by renowned burns specialist Professor Fiona Wood.


Jeremy Curnock Cook

• Started out in the sector in 1973 founding a biotech company. 
• Over his career successfully managed in excess of US$1b in equity investments.
• Founder and Managing Director of BioScience Managers, Non-Executive Director of AVITA Medical.

BioScience Managers

An international healthcare investment firm that invests in innovative science and technology. BioScience Managers was created in 2001 and established its Australian base in 2003, making it the oldest specialist biotech fund in Australia.

Currently has A$250m funds under management.


Disclaimer: This is general advice only and you should consult your financial adviser regarding any of the thoughts, ideas or insights in this podcast.

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