Beckley Psytech, a clinical stage, biotechnology company dedicated to addressing neuropsychiatric disorders through the novel application of psychedelic medicines, has appointed Frank Wiegand as Chief Medical Officer.
Dr. Wiegand, a trained neurologist and neuroscientist, joins Beckley Psytech after more than 20 years with Janssen (a Johnson & Johnson company), where he most recently held the position of Vice President, Global Medical Affairs in Neuroscience. Over his two decades at J&J, he has held positions of increasing responsibility in marketing and sales, global strategic marketing, medical affairs, and market access in addition to extensive research and development experience across the organisation.
His broad experience leading multiple functions across the continuum of pharmaceutical research, development and commercialisation reportedly brings extensive knowledge to the Beckley Psytech executive team, where he will be responsible for all aspects of the clinical development of the company’s assets.
Dr. Wiegand joins the company at an exciting time following a Series B fundraise in August 2021 and as the lead psychedelic compounds, low-dose psilocybin and 5-MeO-DMT, are entering Phase I clinical trials.
Cosmo Feilding Mellen, CEO of Beckley Psytech, said: “Following our highly successful series B fundraise and as our lead psychedelic compounds begin to enter the clinic, we are thrilled to be welcoming Dr. Wiegand as our Chief Medical Officer. Frank brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise alongside extensive leadership experience to Beckley Psytech and his involvement and experience in developing and commercialising esketamine for treatment resistant depression will be invaluable as we progress through our clinical trials and continue our rapid growth as a leader in psychedelic medicine.”
Dr. Frank Wiegand said: “I am truly excited to be joining the leadership team at Beckley Psytech as we usher in a new age in the research, development and delivery of psychedelic medicines. Bringing novel and more effective patient-centered solutions to devastating neuropsychiatric diseases has been the focus of my entire career. I am thrilled to be joining the inventive and passionate team at Beckley Psytech, where we will work relentlessly to make this dream a reality.”
