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EcoR1 Capital, LLC is a venture capital firm founded in 2012 and headquartered in San Francisco, California. The firm focuses on biotechnology investments, particularly in companies developing therapeutics for untreated diseases. EcoR1 Capital has established itself as a significant player in the biotech sector, managing approximately $5 billion in assets under management (AUM) as of March 2024.
The firm has a diverse portfolio of around 50 companies, showcasing its commitment to advancing therapeutic innovation. EcoR1 Capital emphasizes long-term partnerships with entrepreneurs, providing not only capital but also strategic support throughout the drug development process. The firm operates globally, with a strong presence in North America, and is known for its rigorous evaluation process when selecting investments.
Notable milestones include co-investing in significant funding rounds, such as Attovia Therapeutics' $90 million Series C. EcoR1 Capital's approach combines scientific rigor with a collaborative ethos, ensuring that its portfolio companies are well-positioned to navigate the complexities of the biotech landscape.
EcoR1 Capital invests primarily in the biotechnology sector, targeting companies engaged in the development of therapeutics for untreated diseases. The firm focuses on various stages of investment, including seed, Series A, Series B, Series C, growth equity, and pre-IPO rounds. Check sizes range from $1 million to $50 million, allowing for flexibility in supporting companies at different stages of their development.
The firm employs a holistic evaluation process, emphasizing scientific rigor and management quality. EcoR1 Capital seeks to partner with entrepreneurs who are committed to advancing therapeutic innovation and improving patient outcomes. The firm’s investment strategy is characterized by a long-term perspective, aiming to support companies through their research and development phases and into commercialization.
Geographically, EcoR1 Capital has a global focus, with a strong emphasis on North America. This broad reach enables the firm to identify and invest in innovative biotech solutions worldwide, aligning with its mission to enhance healthcare through novel therapeutics.
EcoR1 Capital's portfolio includes a diverse array of biotechnology companies, reflecting its commitment to therapeutic innovation. Notable portfolio companies include:
Oleg Nodelman: Founder and Portfolio Manager at EcoR1 Capital, Oleg has extensive experience in biotechnology investments and has led numerous successful funding rounds. He is known for his strategic insights and deep understanding of the biotech landscape.
Areesha Saif: Analyst at EcoR1 Capital, Areesha focuses on market research and due diligence for potential investments. She brings a strong analytical background to the team.
Basheer Zada: Principal at EcoR1 Capital, Basheer plays a key role in sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities. His expertise lies in identifying innovative biotech companies.
Caroline Cho: Executive Personal Assistant, Caroline supports the firm's operations and ensures smooth communication within the team.
Caroline Stout: Partner at EcoR1 Capital, Caroline has a strong background in venture capital and plays a crucial role in guiding portfolio companies.
Catherine McWilliams: Director of Partner Relations, Catherine is responsible for managing relationships with portfolio companies and investors, ensuring alignment of interests.
Daniel Rodriguez: Counsel, Daniel provides legal guidance and support for the firm's investment activities.
Geoff Keough: Trader, Geoff manages the firm's trading activities and investment strategies.
Maddie Gehrich: Investor Relations Associate, Maddie focuses on maintaining relationships with current and potential investors.
Miranda Fornaro: Operations Manager, Miranda oversees the firm's operational processes and ensures efficiency.
Nima Emami: Analyst, Nima assists in market analysis and investment evaluations.
Oleg Khusainov: Controller, Oleg manages the firm's financial operations and reporting.
Sarah Marriott: Partner, COO, and General Counsel, Sarah plays a vital role in the firm's strategic direction and legal compliance.
Scott Perlen: CFO, Scott oversees the financial management of EcoR1 Capital.
Whan Lee: Senior Analyst, Whan focuses on investment research and analysis.
To pitch EcoR1 Capital, founders should send an email to tardigrades@ecor1cap.com. It is important to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the startup's business model, market opportunity, and scientific basis for the therapeutic innovation. EcoR1 Capital typically responds within a few weeks, but response times may vary based on the volume of inquiries.
Warm introductions are preferred, as they can enhance the chances of securing a meeting. Founders should ensure that their pitch clearly communicates the potential impact of their innovation on patient outcomes and the competitive landscape within the biotechnology sector.
In January 2025, EcoR1 Capital increased its stake in Zymeworks by approximately $2.97 million, now holding around 15.4 million shares. This move reflects the firm's confidence in Zymeworks' potential within the biotechnology sector.
EcoR1 Capital co-invested in Attovia Therapeutics' $90 million Series C funding round, further solidifying its commitment to supporting innovative biotech companies. The firm continues to actively manage its diverse portfolio, focusing on therapeutic innovation and long-term partnerships.
What are EcoR1 Capital's investment criteria?
EcoR1 Capital primarily invests in biotechnology companies focused on developing therapeutics for untreated diseases. The firm evaluates potential investments based on scientific rigor, management quality, and the potential for significant patient outcomes.
How can I pitch EcoR1 Capital?
Founders can pitch EcoR1 Capital by sending an email to tardigrades@ecor1cap.com. It is advisable to include a detailed deck outlining the business model, market opportunity, and scientific basis of the therapeutic innovation.
What makes EcoR1 Capital different from other investors?
EcoR1 Capital distinguishes itself through its deep expertise in biotechnology and its commitment to long-term partnerships with entrepreneurs. The firm emphasizes a collaborative approach, providing not just capital but also strategic support throughout the drug development process.
What is EcoR1 Capital's geographic focus?
EcoR1 Capital has a global investment focus, with a strong emphasis on North America. This allows the firm to identify and invest in innovative biotech solutions worldwide.
What is the typical check size for investments?
EcoR1 Capital typically invests between $1 million and $50 million in its portfolio companies, allowing for flexibility in supporting companies at various stages of development.
What is EcoR1 Capital's post-investment involvement?
After investing, EcoR1 Capital actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing strategic guidance and support to help navigate the complexities of drug development and commercialization.
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