The Expedition for Drug Development

It begins with a promising discovery in research… followed by intellectual property protection… then continues through steps of rigorous pre-clinical development… before advancing into the clinic. At each phase, Emory resources are available to help you navigate the expedition.

STAGE 1: Beyond Exploration

Research Findings

Target Identification and Validation

Screening and Evaluation of Compounds

Good Results! Advance to Stage 2

Resource

Center for New Medicines Guidance, lab infrastructure, funding

STAGE 2: Determining Commercial Potential

Invention Disclosure

Evaluation of IP and Commercial Market

Protection of IP (patent)

Drug has Market Potential! Move to Stage 3

Resources

Office of Technology Transfer First stop + at your side until post-licensing

Emory Entrepreneurship Clinic Training on how to start/scale a company

Biolocity External funder, guide

Georgia Research Alliance External funder, guide

STAGE 3: Bridging the Gap between Research and the Clinic

Evaluation of Pharmacology, Safety, Action Mechanism

Optimization of Compound(s)

Preparation for IND (Investigational New Drug) Application

Marketing of IP (to potential partner/licensee)

On to the Clinic:

  • File IND application, prepare for Phase 1 clinical trials
  • License the drug OR start a company OR partner with third party (to navigate trials)
Resources

Emory Drug Development Fund Guidance, funding to advance toward IND application

Emory Entrepreneurship Clinic Training on how to start/scale a company

Startup Launch Accelerator 8-week program to prep for outside investment

Drug Innovation Ventures at Emory (DRiVE) Robust support for pre-clinical development

Biolocity External funder, guide

Georgia Research Alliance External funder, guide

STAGE 4: If You Choose to Start a Company

Create Legal Structure, Tax Entity

Develop a Business Plan

Attract Venture Investment

Execute Plan

Advance Through Clinical Trials
Resources

Emory Drug Development Fund Guidance, funding to advance toward IND application

Lab2Launch Wet lab infrastructure leased to Emory startups

Drug Innovation Ventures at Emory (DRiVE) Partner or licenser to help move your drug to market

Startup Launch Accelerator 8-week program to prep for outside investment

Office of Technology Transfer Startup services team

Emory Entrepreneurship Clinic Training on how to start/scale a company

Emory Biotech Consulting Club Volunteer consultants to advance biotech innovations

Georgia Research Alliance External funder, guide

Note: The above process is simplified to help you see which entities in Emory’s ecosystem are available to you at different steps and stages.

Emory’s entrepreneurial ecosystem