Sahar Esmaeeli

Sahar Esmaeeli, PhD has extensive work experience in the field of human genetics. Sahar is currently the Director of Human Genetics at Neuron23 Inc. In this role, they oversee the genetic research and development efforts of the company.

From 2018 to 2021, Sahar worked at AbbVie as the Head of Human Genetics - Neuroscience. Sahar was responsible for initiating numerous opportunities by utilizing innovative human genomics methods and resources, such as large biobanks and public datasets. Sahar also played a key role in the planning and implementation of genomics efforts, working closely with senior leadership.

Prior to their time at AbbVie, Sahar held the position of Head of Human Genetics at NGM Biopharmaceuticals from 2016 to 2017. Here, they directed the human genetics efforts to identify and evaluate drug targets for antibody therapy of various complex disorders, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders.

From 2015 to 2016, Sahar worked as an R&D Advisor at Zogenix. Sahar played a crucial role in guiding the development of Fintelpa, a low dose fenfluramine liquid solution for the treatment of Dravet syndrome. Sahar'swork contributed to the reduction of off-target toxicity, allowing the drug to enter Phase III trials and ultimately receive FDA approval.

Sahar began their career as a Post-Doctoral Fellow at the University of California San Francisco from 2010 to 2016. During this time, they made significant discoveries related to genetic mutations in patients with progressive encephalopathy and brain atrophy. Sahar also identified numerous putative de novo seizures-causing mutations through whole-exome sequencing.

Sahar's earliest work experience was as a Graduate Research Fellow at the Max Planck Institute for Human Molecular Genetics in Berlin, Germany, from 2006 to 2010. Here, they made important contributions to the field of human genetics, identifying a novel genetic defect in patients with intellectual disability and discovering new genes associated with autosomal recessive intellectual disability.

Overall, Sahar Esmaeeli, PhD has a strong background in human genetics and has made significant contributions to the field through their research and leadership roles.

Sahar Esmaeeli earned a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Human Molecular Genetics from Freie Universität Berlin, where they attended from 2006 to 2010.