Akash Bakshi

Akash Bakshi is the co-founder and CEO of YourChoice Therapeutics. Akash was previously the CEO of ANA Therapeutics, where they built a start-up to rapidly develop a treatment and prophylactic for SARS-CoV-2/ COVID-19. Akash raised $6,000,000 USD from leading investors and quickly developed a team of infectious disease experts to support the development of covid-19 treatment. Akash developed a regulatory strategy to rapidly repurpose an FDA approved drug as a treatment. Akash oversaw drafting and submission of pre-IND and IND filings, data monitoring committee ,and clinical trial design. Akash identified and acted upon the opportunity to pivot the niclosamide project to COVID-19. Akash created new company, and built the team to drive the COVID-19 project. Akash built vision for the project and obtained funding to drive the project. Akash adapted and adjusted direction as needed (supply chain away from UM, CRO selection/decision). Akash ensured project momentum by regular follow-up with the team and holding team members accountable for deliverables. Akash fostered a team culture of open communication and an action oriented environment, one of the key components leading to an "approval to proceed" letter for the ANA-001 study within 6 months of the team formation. Akash led the team and the project through a successful acquisition by NeuroBo.

Akash Bakshi attended Y Combinator for their masters in biotechnology. Akash then attended The University of Queensland for their bachelor's degree in science biochemistry and cell biology. Lastly, they attended UC San Diego for their bachelor's degree in science biochemistry and cell biology.

A direct report to Akash Bakshi is and Nadja Mannowetz - Co-Founder & CSO.