Dan Kemp, Ph.D.

Dr. Dan Kemp brings over 20 years of leadership experience across biotech startups and top 10 pharma companies, with deep expertise in cell and gene therapy platforms. Formerly CEO of Wugen and Vice President of Cell Therapies BD & Operations at Takeda, he has negotiated and led over $300M in startup investments and more than 20 transactions, including licensing, collaborations, and acquisitions.

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At Takeda, Dr. Kemp created the built-to-buy structure for Gamma Delta Therapeutics and Adaptate Biotherapeutics, serving on both boards prior to their acquisition. He also led the licensing of Katy Rezvani’s CAR-NK program, enabling the successful transition of an academic innovation into pharma.

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As CEO of Wugen, Dr. Kemp drove rapid growth, raising $172M in Series B financing and advancing three INDs in 18 months for CAR-T and NK platforms. Known for his strategic relationships across the U.S., UK, and Japan, he brings a track record of transforming innovation into clinical and commercial success.