John Michael Sauer

John Michael Sauer, Ph.D., is a highly experienced professional in the fields of pharmacology and toxicology, currently serving as Vice President of Safety Assessment at Denali Therapeutics since April 2025. Previously, Sauer held key positions including Vice President of Nonclinical Development at BioCryst Pharmaceuticals and Senior Consultant at Aclairo Pharmaceutical Development Group. With significant experience in both industry and scientific leadership, Sauer's background includes strategic oversight of drug discovery and development projects at Peptilogics, as well as senior roles at Critical Path Institute, Pfizer, Covance Laboratories, Elan Pharmaceuticals, and Eli Lilly and Company. Sauer holds a Ph.D. in Pharmacology and Toxicology from the University of Arizona and multiple degrees from Western Michigan University.