Kirk Tanner is the Chief Scientific Officer at the National Brain Tumor Society. He is an oncology research leader with two decades of industry experience leading Discovery and Development projects/programs resulting multiple clinical candidates and INDs. Kirk leads National Brain Tumor Society’s research program that aims to catalyze treatment development through philanthropic investment in medical research, engaging scientists, clinicians, patients and care partners in research programs

Formerly, Kirk was the Research Oncology Disease Area Expert at Vertex Pharmaceuticals providing both tactical and strategic guidance/leadership to Vertex Oncology Discovery projects. He also has extensive experience with incoming and outgoing BD projects including the licensing of Vertex’s R&D portfolio to Merck KGaA for $250M + royalties.

Prior to his time at Vertex, Dr. Tanner completed a postdoctoral fellowship and training at Oregon Health Science University. He holds several scientific patents and has published more than 20 papers in scientific and medical journals.

Dr. Tanner received a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry and Biochemistry from California State University, Fullerton and his PhD in Chemistry and Biochemistry from the University of California, San Diego.