For over three decades, Dr. Gerald Nabozny has forged a career at the intersection of groundbreaking science and life-changing medicine. An expert in immunology and inflammation biology, he has dedicated his professional life to unraveling the complexities of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases and transforming scientific insights into therapies that have made a meaningful impact to human health. From his earliest days in academia to the height of leadership in the pharmaceutical industry, Dr. Nabozny has remained committed to one mission: advancing the science of healing.
Dr. Nabozny’s scientific journey began with earning a Ph.D. in Immunology and Microbiology from Wayne State University School of Medicine, where he researched mechanisms underlying immune tolerance, T-cell biology, and the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease. After his Ph.D. studies, Dr. Nabozny continued his training through a research fellowship at the Mayo Clinic, a transformative experience where he established and studied novel animal models and molecular mechanisms underlying autoimmune disorders. The early chapters of his career were shaped by exposure to cutting edge science that honed his curiosity, precision, and drive to uncover the unknown.
He joined Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals in 1995, marking the beginning of an illustrious 30-year tenure. Over nearly three decades, Dr. Nabozny held multiple ascending roles, ultimately serving as Executive Director and later Highly Distinguished Research Fellow in the Department of Immunology and Respiratory Diseases Research. His leadership was instrumental in the discovery and development of therapeutics that addressed critical unmet needs in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, and interstitial lung disease.
One of Dr. Nabozny’s proudest accomplishments was, as a member of the executive leadership team, contributing to the discovery and development of Risankizumab (Skyrizi®) and Spesolimab (Spevigo®), both now approved treatments that have significantly transformed patient lives suffering with autoimmune disease. As a member of the Risankizumab development team, he worked closely with his teammates in strategic decision-making of early clinical trial designs, biomarker development, and therapeutic positioning—work that contributed significantly to its successful out-licensing to Abbvie and eventual commercialization. His role wasn’t merely scientific; it was also vital in bridging data and insight to drive real-world results.
In parallel to his contributions in discovery and early clinical development, Dr. Nabozny became a trusted voice in asset evaluation and business strategy. For over 15 years, he was the primary scientific representative on Boehringer Ingelheim’s Immunology In-Licensing Team. In this capacity, he led the biological due diligence process, assessing the viability of novel assets and shaping the company’s external innovation pipeline. His evaluations often informed high-stakes decisions at the executive level, underscoring his credibility and influence.
Dr. Nabozny’s commitment to translational medicine has also been a hallmark of his career. He was a central figure in establishing a global biomarker strategic framework for research and clinical biomarker teams, contributing to roadmaps that ensured seamless integration of preclinical and clinical programs. His efforts enabled the organization to pursue more predictive and responsive early-phase trials, laying the groundwork for targeted, patient-centric therapies. His deep knowledge of adaptive immunology and biomarker science has made him a go-to expert in an industry that increasingly relies on precision medicine.
After his retirement from Boehringer Ingelheim in 2025, Dr. Nabozny founded GHN ImmunoConsult LLC, a boutique consulting firm focused on empowering the next generation of biotech innovators and venture capital stakeholders. Through this practice, he provides strategic guidance on drug discovery strategies, preclinical development, biomarker design, and indication selection. His consulting work reflects his enduring passion for the field and his desire to give back by mentoring startups, investors, and scientific teams alike.
A prolific author and recognized thought leader, Dr. Nabozny has published over 50 peer-reviewed papers. His work has been cited across scientific disciplines covering both basic science and drug discovery. He continues to serve as an Associate Editor for Frontiers in Immunology and has contributed as a reviewer for journals such as Journal of Immunology and Science Communications, and reviewer for the faculty starter, post-doctoral and pre-doctoral grants in drug discovery for the PhRMA foundation. These activities further reinforce his role as a respected voice in the global scientific community.
Beyond his technical expertise, Dr. Nabozny is deeply committed to scientific mentorship, global collaboration, and ethical innovation. He has presented research across North America, Europe, and Asia, and has built relationships with scientific leaders worldwide. Fluent in the language of science but grounded in empathy and humility, he values integrity, lifelong learning, and the transformative power of collaboration. Whether leading teams of 25 or advising early-stage ventures, he cultivates a culture of curiosity and accountability.
Today, Dr. Nabozny continues to be a vital force in biomedical innovation. His work bridges the scientific rigor of large pharmaceutical enterprises with the agility of the startup ecosystem. He remains energized by the possibility of turning nascent ideas into validated therapies—continuing his legacy of advancing science with purpose. Whether serving as a consultant, advisor, or board member, Dr. Nabozny brings unparalleled experience, a strategic mind, and an unwavering commitment to improving lives.
Character:
Dr. Nabozny exemplifies humility, resilience, and integrity. His colleagues speak of a leader who listens deeply, holds himself to the highest standards, and inspires trust through action. Even at the peak of his career, he remained approachable and grounded, always willing to mentor others and share the credit for success.
Knowledge:
With over 30 years in immunology and drug discovery / development, Dr. Nabozny possesses a mastery of both scientific detail and strategic context. His insights have influenced multimillion-dollar development decisions and helped shape breakthrough therapies. He has continually stayed at the forefront of science, embracing innovation while respecting proven methodologies.
Strategic:
Throughout his career, Dr. Nabozny has demonstrated an uncanny ability to see both the forest and the trees. Whether aligning discovery with patient and market need or guiding early clinical trial design to maximize success, he thinks several steps ahead. His strategic contributions have been pivotal in both operational execution and long-term portfolio planning.
Communication:
Dr. Nabozny is a skilled communicator, equally comfortable presenting at global scientific symposia or engaging in nuanced stakeholder discussions. He translates complex science into actionable strategies with clarity and precision. His ability to connect across disciplines and roles makes him an effective leader, advisor, and collaborator.
