Dr. David Bearss is a scientist, entrepreneur and biotechnology leader dedicated to transforming scientific discoveries into life-changing medicines. As co-founder, president and CEO of Halia Therapeutics, he leads the Utah-based biopharmaceutical company in developing novel therapies that target chronic inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. Halia’s research has expanded into a broad pipeline of treatments aimed at addressing some of the world’s most challenging health conditions.
With more than 25 years of experience in drug discovery and development, Bearss has helped advance 16 compounds from the laboratory into clinical development and co-founded eight biotechnology companies. Prior to Halia, he served as CEO of Tolero Pharmaceuticals, which was acquired by Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma, and held leadership roles at Montigen Pharmaceuticals and SuperGen. He also co-founded the Center for Investigational Therapeutics at the Huntsman Cancer Institute and served as an associate professor at both the University of Utah and Brigham Young University.