CEO
Dr. Monia is a founding member and chief executive officer of Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. As previous head of Drug Discovery and Translational Medicine, Dr. Monia was responsible for preclinical drug discovery research focused on RNA-targeted therapeutics, working directly with clinical investigators, consultants, and with corporate partners. His contributions have focused on the medicinal chemistry and mechanisms of action of oligonucleotide-based medicines, and in the establishment and oversight of numerous preclinical and clinical programs. Programs under Dr. Monia’s direct supervision have resulted in the clinical development of more than forty oligonucleotide-based medicines, several currently in Phase 3 studies, in areas as diverse as neurological, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases. Six medicines under Dr. Monia’s direct supervision have achieved global marketing approval.
Dr. Monia’s publication record exceeds 250 primary research manuscripts, reviews, and book chapters, and he is an inventor on more than 100 issued patents. Dr. Monia also serves on the Board of Directors for Ionis and Cognition Therapeutics. Dr. Monia is a founding member of the Oligonucleotide Therapeutics Society (OTS) and has served as the OTS President and Board of Directors. Dr. Monia is also the recipient of the 2025 OTS Lifetime Achievement Award.
Dr. Monia received his Ph.D. in Pharmacology from the University of Pennsylvania and B.S. degrees in Molecular Biology and Analytical Chemistry from Stockton University.