From Scientist to Founder: David Llewellyn On DJS Antibodies’ $255M Exit
In recent years, the field of biotechnology has witnessed a remarkable surge in scientific and technological breakthroughs, driving progress across healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. Within this dynamic landscape, innovative biotech startups have emerged as pivotal players, catalyzing transformative developments.
DJS Antibodies is one such trailblazing biotechnology company, dedicated to forging the future of antibody therapeutics. Spearheading this endeavor is David Llewellyn, the company's managing director and co-founder, whose mission is to engineer antibodies combating chronic inflammatory diseases.
The culmination of their efforts reached a significant milestone in October 2022 when DJS Antibodies was acquired by AbbVie for a staggering $255 million. This strategic partnership promises to bolster research capabilities and fortify AbbVie's immunology portfolio.
On November 16, David will detail his journey with DJS Antibodies in a global keynote for Founders Network. During the event, he’ll share how his passion for exploring medical advancements led him to establish a cutting-edge biotech startup worth millions.
David will also cover:
- Creative strategies for funding a business in the idea phase
- Practical tips for how to accomplish more with less capital
- Insights into how to close an M&A deal
- How to identify who will help and hinder you during your startup journey
Opening Remarks @ 9:30am PT
Join us for opening remarks with Dina Fattom, Member Success Manager at Founders Network, to get the latest updates from the Network and opportunities for getting involved.
Keynote Speaker @ 9:40am PT
David Llewellyn is the Managing Director and co-founder of DJS Antibodies and led the company from initiation through to its acquisition by AbbVie in 2022. He completed a Ph.D. at the University of Oxford’s Jenner Institute and has more than 10 years of experience in immunology and antibody discovery.
DJS was founded with Dr. Joe Illingworth to pursue the discovery and development of novel therapeutics against chronic inflammatory diseases and secured investment from pharma, venture capital, and non-dilutive granting bodies prior to the acquisition.
Prior to founding DJS, David co-founded and led Beyond Equality, an organization promoting positive masculinity and gender equality amongst groups of young men. David remains committed to promoting values of equality and diversity throughout DJS and more broadly.
Stage-Based Roundtables @ 10:30am PT
Complimentary Ticket:
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About Founders Network:
Founded in 2011, Founders Network offers lifelong peer mentorship to over 600 tech startup founders globally. Our platform, programs and high-touch service facilitate authentic experience sharing, warm introductions and long-term professional relationships. Additional benefits include over $500k in startup discounts and promotion to 2,000 newsletter readers. Members are located in San Francisco, New York City, Los Angeles, Vancouver, Toronto, London and other tech hubs. Each month our Membership Committee admits a new cohort of full-time tech founders who are nominated by an existing member. Learn more about us here
Confidentiality Policy
All information shared within Founders Network is strictly confidential. We are built on a foundation of trust, and the community takes confidentiality seriously. Investors, members, and staff all share experiences and opinions off the record. In this roundtable forum, we continue to model our fnValues of Reciprocity, Humility, Authenticity and Inclusivity. Read more about our Privacy Policy here.
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