Heike Blockus

About Heike Blockus

Scientific Director with a proven history of achieving results in fast-paced, resource-conscious biotech ecosystems. Successfully led internal and external cross-functional drug discovery teams for small molecule, biologics and siRNA development. Experienced team lead in in vitro/in vivo pharmacology, efficacy and biomarker studies including rodent and hiPSC-derived models of neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases. Successfully nominated three development candidates and oversaw IND-enabling studies across nonclinical, clinical and CMC functions. Consistently met project milestones on time, serving as a trusted representative among the executive team, industry partners and CROs. Strong scientific foundation through a decade of high-impact academic research at leading global institutions.

Experience

1. Director of Preclinical Strategy and Scientific Programs

   Moonwalk Biosciences

   Jul 2025 — Present

   Set strategy for IND-enabling studies in obesity; lead cross-functional integration of CMC, non-clinical and clinical teams• Ensure timely and stage-appropriate execution of IND-enabling studies for small molecules and siRNAs • Successful program and alliance management for external partnership overseeing drug discovery screening campaign and research execution • Draft clinical synopsis and lead outreach to Phase 1 units and clinical CROs for FIH-POC clinical trials• CMC and non-clinical vendor diligence, selection, management and audits • Collaborate with academic inventors, internal teams and external consultants to devise pharmacology and toxicology/safety strategy for IND and ex-US equivalent regulatory submissions

Education

• Sorbonne Université

  Doctor of Philosophy - PhD, Neurodevelopment / Neuroscience

  2011 — 2015

• Columbia University

  Postdoc, Neurobiology and Neurosciences

• The University of Bonn

  Master's degree, Molecular Biomedicine

  2006 — 2011