Chandan Seth Nanda

Runner Up Business Builder of the Year

A biotech leader at the forefront of oncology innovation, I’ve built and led Pear Bio’s therapeutics division from inception as the company’s first drug discovery hire. As VP of Target & Drug Discovery, I established the discovery platform from the ground up and led two best-in-class programs—CDK12 and VSIG4—through the full R&D lifecycle, from target ID through hit-to-lead, optimization, and advanced preclinical development with integrated biomarker strategies. CDK12, Pear Bio’s first therapeutic program, reached IND-readiness within just 18–24 months—an exceptional pace for early-stage biotech.

My approach blends high-throughput phenomics with AI-driven target discovery and translational biomarker development.

Strategically, I’ve been instrumental in transforming Pear Bio from a diagnostics service platform to a therapeutics-focused biotech. I played a key role in securing Series A ($15m) and follow-on funding rounds, crafting the company’s R&D roadmap, and expanding our pipeline of precision oncology assets. I lead global collaborations with CROs and KOLs, ensuring scientific rigor while accelerating development timelines and maximizing efficiency.

As a scientist and builder, I operate at the intersection of innovation and execution—translating complex tumor biology into treatments for cancer patients. My work exemplifies entrepreneurial leadership, scientific excellence, and strategic vision—core values of the Business Builder Award.