Dr. Zhiyang Zack Zou, Ph.D., is a distinguished scientist with over 30 years of expertise in drug discovery and development. His contributions span across renowned organizations, including Eli Lilly, Lundbeck USA, and the Global Health Drug Discovery Institute (GHDDI). Specializing in CNS, diabetes, oncology, and infectious diseases, Dr. Zou has successfully completed 20+ preclinical IND studies and has extensive experience in DMPK, bioanalysis, and toxicology. His dedication has earned him multiple awards for his innovative contributions to drug development.
Profile
Scopus
Strengths for the Awards
- Extensive Experience in Drug Discovery and Development
- Over 30 years of significant contributions in pharmaceutical R&D, spanning CNS, diabetes, oncology, infectious diseases, and more.
- Led 20+ preclinical IND studies for FDA filing, with expertise in small molecules, biologics, and regulatory standards.
- Diverse Skill Set
- Profound knowledge in DMPK (Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics), Toxicology, Bioanalysis, and Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) modeling.
- Expert in applying advanced tools like LC-MS/MS, Phoenix WinNonlin, and PBPK modeling for human dose predictions and drug interaction studies.
- Leadership and Team Contributions
- Recognized leader with several awards, such as the “Contribution Award GHDDI 2023” and “Breakthrough Award 2022” for work on Covid-19 3CLPro inhibitors.
- Proven ability to lead large teams (e.g., managing 60+ team members at Sundia Meditech) and develop high-performance research groups.
- Global Collaborations and Achievements
- Worked with world-renowned pharmaceutical companies (e.g., Eli Lilly, Neurocrine Biosciences, Lundbeck).
- Successfully advanced projects from early discovery to clinical stages, contributing to FDA-approved drugs like Orilissa and Indiplon.
- Academic Excellence
- Holds a Ph.D. in Clinical/Bioanalytical Chemistry, with additional advanced education in biochemistry and chemistry.
- Authored and co-authored numerous impactful publications in high-ranking journals, contributing to both applied and theoretical drug development.
- Patents and Innovations
- Holder of patents, such as for pharmaceutical compositions targeting coronavirus infections, showcasing innovation in addressing urgent global health challenges.
- Training and Certification
- Well-trained in state-of-the-art pharmacological methodologies, ensuring cutting-edge approaches in research.
Education 🎓
- Ph.D. in Clinical/Bioanalytical Chemistry – Cleveland State University/Cleveland Clinic Foundation
- Master’s in Biochemistry – Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences
- Bachelor’s in Chemistry – Peking University, Beijing, China
Dr. Zou’s academic journey laid the foundation for his groundbreaking research and industry contributions, particularly in bioanalytical chemistry and biochemistry.
Professional Experience 🏢
Head of DMPK and Toxicology, GHDDI (2019–Present):
- Led breakthrough projects like COVID-19 3CLPro inhibitors and anti-malaria drugs.
- Recognized with multiple accolades, including “Breakthrough Award 2022”.
Vice President, Sundia Meditech (2015–2019):
- Directed a team of 60+ scientists, leading multiple preclinical IND filings.
Associate Director, Eli Lilly (2013–2015):
- Worked on type-2 diabetes drug discovery, specializing in PK/PD modeling and human dose predictions.
Dr. Zou has also contributed to Lundbeck, Neurogen, and Neurocrine Biosciences, showcasing his leadership and innovative strategies in drug metabolism and bioanalysis.
Dr. Zou is passionate about:
- Drug metabolism, pharmacokinetics (PK/PD), and toxicology
- ADME studies and human dose projections
- Developing solutions for diseases like CNS disorders, oncology, and infectious diseases
- Modeling and simulation for drug development
Awards 🏆
- GHDDI Contribution Award (2023)
- Breakthrough Awards (2020 & 2022) for COVID-19 and malaria research
- Best Team Awards at Sundia Meditech (2016–2018)
- Numerous accolades for contributions to IND filings and innovative bioanalysis
Publications 📚
1. Investigation of liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of a peptide aldehyde SJA6017 with identifying its hemiacetal, gem-diol, and enol ether
- Authors: Zou, Z.Z., Han, M.-J.
- Journal: Journal of Mass Spectrometry
- Year: 2024
- Citations: 0
2. Enabling a novel solvent method on Albendazole solid dispersion to improve the in vivo bioavailability
- Authors: Han, M.-J., Zou, Z.Z.
- Journal: European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Year: 2024
- Citations: 2
Conclusion ✨
Dr. Zhiyang Zack Zou is a visionary leader in pharmaceutical sciences, with profound expertise in drug discovery and development. His illustrious career, filled with significant achievements, continues to inspire advancements in medical research and therapeutic innovations.
