Madhavi Mulay

Madhavi is an experienced pharmacologist, translational researcher, and strategic project leader with over 13 years of experience at the intersection of pharmaceutical R&D and cross-functional program management. She holds a Ph.D. from Mumbai University, specializing in Oncology research, and completed her postdoctoral research at the Indian Council of Medical Research’s National Institute of Immunohematology (ICMR-NIIH), specializing in immunology and Haematogenetics.

Her career spans key roles in both academic and industry settings. At Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, she led drug discovery initiatives across immuno-oncology, dermatology, respiratory, and inflammation pipelines, driving projects from target ideation through clinical candidate nomination and IND-enabling studies. Her contributions have been integral to the advancement of three clinical candidates and numerous preclinical programs.

Outside the bench, Madhavi is known for her strategic acumen and program-management expertise, leading multidisciplinary teams, managing stakeholders, and aligning scientific execution with regulatory objectives. She has successfully led collaborations with global CROs and institutions such as NIH, ACTREC, and IIT, and has trained teams in governance, legal coordination, resource planning, and budget management.

As Founder and Director of Abhinavayan Biotech, she is spearheading a new paradigm of lean, collaborative drug development model aligned with the needs of the Indian and global biotech ecosystem. Madhavi provides strategic and operational directions, ensuring organizational alignment and disciplined execution across scientific programs, operations, and partnerships.