Ryan K. Stansfield is a highly experienced and innovative scientific leader with over 23 years of expertise in small molecule drug discovery and development. A recognized authority in the fields of ADME, safety pharmacology, and toxicology, Stansfield has driven the success of multiple drug development programs, with seven progressing from discovery to clinical trials. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated a unique blend of hands-on scientific knowledge, leadership, and analytical problem-solving capabilities that have made him an asset to every organization he has served.
Currently serving as Director of DMPK-Toxicology at 858 Therapeutics in San Diego, California, Stansfield oversees the DMPK and toxicology teams that support the company’s small molecule discovery and development efforts. He has led teams through pivotal milestones, including managing 28-day GLP IND-enabling toxicology studies, successfully authoring non-clinical reports for IND submissions, and building a state-of-the-art DMPK laboratory. His leadership and strategic insight have been instrumental in shaping the development of innovative therapeutic candidates. Stansfield is responsible for all aspects of ADME, safety pharmacology, and toxicology activities, ensuring that preclinical studies are rigorously executed and aligned with regulatory standards.
Prior to his current role, Stansfield worked as a Senior Scientist in DMPK-Toxicology at Genentech (formerly Jecure Therapeutics), where he provided organizational and scientific leadership, particularly in the development of preclinical strategies for novel drug candidates. He also managed external collaborations with contract research organizations (CROs), ensuring that critical studies were completed on time and in accordance with regulatory requirements.
Earlier in his career, Stansfield held key positions at Celgene (formerly Quanticel Pharmaceuticals), where his efforts in leading DMPK and exploratory toxicology groups contributed to the successful progression of multiple drug candidates. He also served as a Senior Scientist at Cylene Pharmaceuticals, where his expertise in pharmacokinetics and bioanalytical methods significantly advanced the development of kinase inhibitors and other small molecule therapeutics.
Stansfield’s career is marked by his ability to effectively manage both scientific and operational aspects of drug discovery and development. His expertise in budgeting, experimental design, and process improvement has led to numerous successful collaborations and the efficient advancement of drug candidates from discovery to clinical trials. His ability to mentor and develop teams has been a key factor in building high-performance environments within every organization he has been part of.
Stansfield is also a prolific contributor to scientific literature, having authored or co-authored several influential papers on the development of small molecule inhibitors. His contributions extend to intellectual property, with a patent for a bromodomain inhibitor pending approval.
An alumnus of the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Zoology, Stansfield has also been recognized with multiple awards, including the Celgene Achievement Award and the “Bravo Award” from Cylene Pharmaceuticals. His professional journey reflects a dedication to advancing the field of drug discovery through scientific excellence, strategic vision, and collaborative leadership.
Stansfield’s work continues to have a profound impact on the drug development landscape, contributing to the progression of cutting-edge therapeutic candidates that have the potential to address significant unmet medical needs.
Character
Ryan K. Stansfield is a dedicated and driven scientist with a proven track record of success in drug discovery and development, demonstrating integrity, reliability, and a commitment to advancing scientific progress.
Knowledge
With over 23 years of expertise in small molecule drug discovery, ADME, safety pharmacology, and toxicology, Stansfield has deep technical knowledge and a broad understanding of the scientific landscape in the pharmaceutical industry.
Strategic
Stansfield consistently demonstrates strategic thinking by leading cross-functional teams, managing complex projects, and navigating the drug development process to ensure the successful progression of drug candidates from discovery to clinical trials.
Communication
An excellent communicator, Stansfield effectively conveys complex scientific concepts and collaborates seamlessly with internal teams and external partners to ensure alignment and the achievement of project goals.
