ABC CHATS - Dr. Alon Seri levy from Sol-Gel
From Academic Research to FDA-Approved Drugs: Insights from Alon Seri-Levy
We had the privilege of attending an inspiring talk by Alon Seri-Levy, CEO of Sol-Gel Technologies at the Bina 'ABC' chat.
Alon shared his remarkable journey, transitioning from the chemistry bench at Prof. David Avnir, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem to building a successful company that develops FDA-approved treatments.
His story is a testament to determination, commitment, and focus, even when faced with challenges like limited industry knowledge or costly missteps.
Some key takeaways from his journey:
Luck matters, but determination matters more – Alon was driven to start his company despite having no prior business experience.
Focus is key – Set a clear target and stay committed to it.
Silica beads to sunscreens – Starting with cosmetics, Sol-Gel pivoted to pharmaceuticals, understanding the importance of innovation in the acne market over branding in cosmetics.
Regulation is crucial – While expensive and time-consuming, it's non-negotiable for success in pharmaceuticals.
Market access and competition matter – Always evaluate timing, competition, and collaboration opportunities in advance.
Teamwork wins – A strong, cohesive team is essential to overcome obstacles and scale up.
Under Alon’s leadership, Sol-Gel achieved milestones, including Israel’s Nasdaq IPO. His talk was not just a reflection of his journey but also a valuable lesson for those navigating the intersection of science, innovation, and business.
Thank you, Alon, for sharing your experiences and inspiring us to focus on determination, timing, and collaboration for success!
