What Pharma Wants: Positioning Psychedelic Assets for Partnership & Acquisition
Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 5:00 PM PDT – 8:00 PM PDT
Aquillius · 10918 Technology Pl, San Diego, CA 92127, USA
Hosted by Aquillius
The psychedelic therapeutics landscape is evolving rapidly, with major pharma players making headline-grabbing acquisitions and partnerships. But what exactly is pharma looking for in psychedelic assets—and how can startups and researchers best position themselves for success? Join us for an engaging panel discussion featuring leaders from the forefront of psychedelic drug development, deal-making, and regulatory strategy. Our panelists bring firsthand experience from both sides of recent landmark transactions, including the $1.2 billion acquisition of Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals’ asset by AbbVie and the strategic acquisition of Psilera’s portfolio by ataiBeckley. Key topics will include: [ml][ul][li indent=0 align=left]What makes a psychedelic asset attractive to pharma and large biotech[/li][li indent=0 align=left]Lessons learned from recent high-profile deals[/li][li indent=0 align=left]The critical role of regulatory strategy in enabling successful partnerships and acquisitions[/li][li indent=0 align=left]Practical advice for startups and researchers preparing for partnership or exit[/li][li indent=0 align=left][/li][/ul][/ml]Panelists include: [ml][ul][li indent=0 align=left]Adam Klein, Ph.D., Senior Scientist, Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals (in-person)[/li][li indent=0 align=left]Jaqueline von Salm, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer, Psilera (virtual)[/li][li indent=0 align=left]Odette Hauke, Regulatory Affairs Consultant (Odette Alina LLC, formerly of ataiBeckley; in-person)[/li][li indent=0 align=left][/li][/ul][/ml]Moderated by: Kimberly Chew, Senior Counsel and Co-Leader, Psychedelics and Emerging Therapies Practice, Husch Blackwell LLP (in-person) Whether you’re an entrepreneur, scientist, investor, or industry executive, this session will provide actionable insights, and a rare behind-the-scenes look at how deals get done in this dynamic field. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry leaders and gain the inside track on the next wave of innovation in psychedelic therapeutics!