Phoenix Molecular Designs Appoints Fred Eshelman, Pharm.D., to its Board of Directors

SAN DIEGO, California - VANCOUVER, British Columbia, September 3, 2024 – Phoenix Molecular Designs (PhoenixMD), a privately held, clinical-stage therapeutics company specializing in transformative first-in-class RSK kinase inhibitors for cancer treatment, is proud to announce the appointment of Fred Eshelman, Pharm.D., to its Board of Directors.

Dr. Eshelman’s proven visionary approach, combined with decades of executive experience in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, significantly supports the company’s strategic direction and growth trajectory. His appointment comes at a pivotal time as PhoenixMD begins its Phase 2 clinical trial, Dauntless-1, evaluating the safety and efficacy of PMD-026, a first-in-class RSK kinase inhibitor in patients with metastatic HR+ breast cancer in combination with fulvestrant. 

“This is an exciting time to be joining the Board of Phoenix Molecular Designs,” said Dr. Eshelman. “The company’s innovative approach to precision oncology and its dedication to developing targeted therapies for cancer patients are truly inspiring. I look forward to working with the team to support their groundbreaking research and development efforts.”

Dr. Eshelman is a leader with unwavering perseverance, a serial entrepreneur and a builder of companies. Following an executive tenure at Glaxo, he founded PPD, Inc, a CRO which grew to provide R&D services worldwide and was sold to private equity in 2011. That same year he founded Furiex Pharma, a company that in-licensed early-stage compounds and developed them to an approvable stage. Furiex was sold to Actavis in 2014. Dr. Eshelman then founded a private investment company, Eshelman Ventures LLC, specializing in healthcare with an emphasis on oncology. He served as Chairman of one of the portfolio companies, The Medicines Company, which was sold to Novartis. Beyond his talent for building companies, he is a dedicated mentor and renowned philanthropist, committed to fostering innovation through education.

“We are thrilled to welcome Fred Eshelman to our Board of Directors,” said Sandra Dunn, Ph.D., Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Phoenix Molecular Designs. “Fred’s unparalleled expertise in pharmaceutical development and his proven track record of fostering innovation and growth will be invaluable as we advance our mission to develop breakthrough treatments for cancer patients.”

Phoenix Molecular Designs is at the forefront of oncology innovation, utilizing state-of-the-art technology and research to develop targeted therapies that address unmet medical needs. The addition of Dr. Eshelman to the Board underscores the company’s commitment to excellence and its focus on driving significant advancements in cancer treatment.

To learn more about Fred Eshelman, visit PhoenixMD.