Dr. Stephen Mon Wei Chang is a distinguished leader in the life sciences industry with over 40 years of experience in scientific innovation, drug development, and commercialization. His pioneering work in gene therapy and complex biological treatments has significantly advanced patient care and therapeutic options. Dr. Chang’s leadership has resulted in the successful development of two groundbreaking therapies: Adstilirin™ (rAd-ifn/syn3) for bladder cancer and Intravail™ diazepam for epilepsy, both of which are transforming the landscape of medical treatment. His extensive expertise encompasses stem cells, cell and gene therapy, and drug development, positioning him as a sought-after consultant and entrepreneur. Dr. Chang’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident through his advising of several innovative companies at the forefront of developing cutting-edge therapies in oncology, inflammation, and neurological diseases. He currently advises Mirimus, Micoy Therapeutics, Diodem Therapeutics, Vita Therapeutics, Syenex of Chicago, Envoya, Tissue Regeneration, Rumi Scientific, Triovance, TFBS (Taiwan) and Virtus Therapeutics.
Dr. Chang is not only a researcher and entrepreneur but also a mentor and educator, committed to fostering collaboration and diversity within the scientific community. His extensive experience equips him with the unique ability to navigate the complexities of the life sciences sector, ensuring that transformative therapies reach the patients who need them most. Dr. Chang is committed to fostering the next generation of scientists and entrepreneurs as an Entrepreneur Advisor at both Rutgers University and New York University. His mentorship bridges the gap between research and industry, encouraging innovation and collaboration and team work with his work at Firstfounders. Recently he has joined the Brink Center at San Diego University as a business mentor.
Key Achievements
- Pioneered Breakthrough Therapies: Authored and led the development of innovative gene therapies that have received FDA approval, making a significant impact on patient outcomes. His work in the mRNA vaccine field is particularly noteworthy, as he is recognized as an expert in this area. Additionally, Dr. Chang has engaged with international markets, notably in New Zealand, Korea, Japan, Australia, Taiwan, and China, reflecting his global perspective and understanding of diverse healthcare landscapes.
- Leadership & Team Building: Successfully managed and expanded teams from, fostering growth and innovation in the biotech sector. He has trained over dozen C level suite individuals.
- Strategic Consulting: Provided expert guidance to several organizations and startups in the life sciences industry, helping them to navigate challenges in drug development and commercialization and fund raising.
- Advocacy & Education: Actively involved in teaching and mentoring the next generation of scientists, promoting advancements in biotechnology through partnerships and collaborations. He played a essential role in 2005/2006 on Prop 78/79 as an advocate raising $100 million.
Independent Consultant
Present
- Provide strategic guidance and training for organizations in life sciences technology, drug development, and commercialization.
- Coach and advise CEOs and startups, fostering innovation and growth.
Senior Vice President of Research, Kodikaz Therapeutics
Present
- Lead innovative projects, including the development of a novel cancer therapy gene therapy platform.
Strategic Consultant, for Bridgewest Ventures and Kenna VC London/Dubai
Present
- Oversaw significant growth and expansion initiatives, resulting in multiple successful business units.
Chairperson of the Board and Acting CEO, Histogen, Inc.
2017-2019
- Transformed a struggling biotech company, securing financing and driving successful partnerships and entering the Public market.
Senior Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Research, NY Stem Cell Foundation
2010-2018
- Led research and development initiatives that resulted in major advancements in stem cell therapies. Automation was the key advance using advanced machine learning.
Education
Business Certificate from UCSD Engineering Professional Program 1993-94
Ph.D. in Biological Chemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biochemistry
University of California, Irvine, 1983
B.S. in Zoology, Microbiology, and Cell and Molecular Biology
University of Michigan, 1977 – Graduated cum laude
Professional Affiliations & Contributions
- Board Member for multiple biotech firms, providing strategic direction and governance.
- Mentor and Educator at various academic institutions, including Rutgers University, NYU, San Diego University and San Diego State University.
- Reviewer and Advisor for NIH and other scientific grant programs, demonstrating commitment to advancing medical research and innovation.
- Currently, he is a board member of Mirimus and Virtus, where he continues to influence the direction of biotechnology innovations. He serves on both audit committee’s.
Publications and Patents
Dr. Chang is a prolific author with over fifty patents filed globally, contributing to the advancement of gene therapy and biotechnology. His research has been published in numerous prestigious scientific journals, influencing the next generation of therapies and medical practices.
Why Choose Dr. Stephen Chang?
With a career dedicated to scientific excellence and innovation, Dr. Stephen Mon Wei Chang is your ideal partner for navigating the complexities of drug development and commercialization. His unique blend of experience, passion for biotechnology, and commitment to patient care positions him as a leader in advancing the future of medicine.
Contact Dr. Stephen Chang today to discuss how he can help drive innovation and success in your organization.
Phone: (619) 743-3806
Email: smchang55@gmail.com 
(mailto:smchang55@gmail.com)
