CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Delphia Therapeutics, a biopharmaceutical company focused on a novel cancer treatment strategy known as activation lethality, has appointed Reza Mazhari, Ph.D., as its new Chief Business Officer. The move comes as the company prepares to advance its targeted oncology programs toward clinical development.
Dr. Mazhari brings over two decades of experience spanning drug discovery, clinical development, and business development, with a focus on oncology and translational medicine. His appointment strengthens Delphia’s leadership team at a pivotal moment in the company’s growth.
“Reza’s creativity and strategic leadership will be invaluable as we accelerate our efforts to bring innovative cancer therapies to patients,” said Kevin Marks, Ph.D., co-founder, president, and CEO of Delphia. “We are excited to welcome him as we continue developing breakthrough treatments based on activation lethality.”
Activation lethality is a novel approach in cancer biology that targets the vulnerabilities created by oncogene overactivation—an area Delphia is pioneering in its research and development efforts.
Dr. Mazhari expressed enthusiasm for his new role: “Delphia’s unique scientific vision could lead to a fundamental shift in cancer treatment. I’m thrilled to join this world-class team to help bring forward therapies that may offer longer, more durable responses for patients.”
Before joining Delphia, Dr. Mazhari served as Chief Business Officer at Triana Biomedicines, where he oversaw a research partnership with Pfizer. He previously led oncology search and evaluation at Novartis, contributing to multiple in-licensing deals and portfolio expansion. He has also held leadership roles at Rexahn Pharmaceuticals, Cerecor, and Cardioxyl Pharmaceuticals—where he was a co-founder. Cardioxyl was acquired by Bristol-Myers Squibb in 2015.
Dr. Mazhari earned his Ph.D. in bioengineering from the University of California, San Diego, and completed a postdoctoral fellowship in cardiovascular medicine at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, where he also began his academic career.
