Early Life
Leonard Schleifer was born in Queens, New York, to a Jewish family. His father was a sweater manufacturer and a World War II codebreaker. Schleifer attended Cornell University on scholarship and earned a B.S. degree. He then obtained his M.D. and Ph.D. in pharmacology from the University of Virginia, where he trained under future Nobel Laureate Alfred G. Gilman. While working as a practicing neurologist and professor at Cornell Medical School, Schleifer was frustrated by the lack of effective treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, which inspired him to enter the biotechnology field.
Rise to Success
In 1988, Schleifer founded Regeneron Pharmaceuticals with George Yancopoulos. Initially focused on neurotrophic factors, the company later shifted its focus to monoclonal antibodies, a decision that reshaped its trajectory. Under Schleifer's leadership, Regeneron developed groundbreaking treatments for various diseases, including Eylea for age-related macular degeneration, which became a blockbuster drug. He took Regeneron public in 1991. The company's success is also marked by its innovative VelociSuite of technologies, which accelerate the development of fully human monoclonal antibodies.
Key Business Strategies
Schleifer's leadership has been pivotal in Regeneron's success. Key strategies include a strong commitment to research and development, fostering a culture of scientific excellence, and forming strategic collaborations. He emphasized a focus on drugs with well-understood biology and the importance of human testing. Regeneron's ability to develop product candidates is enhanced by proprietary technology platforms, known as the VelociSuite of technologies.
Philanthropy
Schleifer and his wife Harriet have been involved in philanthropy. They have supported research and initiatives related to rare diseases and the advancement of scientific research. Schleifer's company supports STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education and fosters the future of biomedicine.