Michael Ehlers

Michael Ehlers's Title

Michael Ehlers is the Chief Scientific Officer and a venture partner at life sciences venture capital firm Apple Tree Partners. In this role, he leverages his extensive background in neuroscience and pharmaceutical research to guide the firm's investments in cutting-edge life sciences companies. His leadership is pivotal in identifying and nurturing promising scientific innovations that can translate into transformative therapies.

Michael Ehlers's Company

Apple Tree Partners is a leading venture capital firm specializing in the life sciences sector. As Chief Scientific Officer, Michael Ehlers brings a wealth of experience to the firm, having previously held senior positions at Biogen and Pfizer. At Apple Tree Partners, he plays a critical role in shaping the firm's scientific strategy, fostering innovation, and driving the development of groundbreaking therapies.

Michael Ehlers's Background

Michael Ehlers has an illustrious career in both academia and the pharmaceutical industry. He began his professional journey as the George Barth Geller Professor of Neurobiology and a Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator at Duke University Medical Center. His academic work primarily focused on neuronal organelles and the trafficking of neurotransmitter receptors, such as the AMPA receptor. This foundational research laid the groundwork for his subsequent roles in the pharmaceutical industry, where he became a key figure in neuroscience research and development.

Michael Ehlers's Education and Expertise

Michael Ehlers holds a BS in chemistry from Caltech, earned in 1991, and an MD and PhD in neuroscience from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine under the mentorship of Richard L. Huganir. His academic training provided a robust foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of neuroscience. His expertise spans the trafficking of neurotransmitter receptors and neuronal organelles, which has been instrumental in his contributions to both academic research and the pharmaceutical industry.

Michael Ehlers's Achievements

Michael Ehlers has made significant contributions to neuroscience and pharmaceutical research. At Biogen, he served as Executive Vice President for Research and Development, where he oversaw the development of novel therapies for neurological conditions. Prior to that, he was the Chief Scientific Officer for Neuroscience at Pfizer, where he played a crucial role in advancing the company's neuroscience pipeline. His academic work at Duke University, particularly on AMPA receptor trafficking, has been widely recognized and remains influential in the field.