Samiksha Shrut Shah, Founder and CEO on Influential Women
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Influential Woman · Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical

Samiksha Shrut Shah

Founder and CEO, What's Next for Pharma

Sharon, MA 02067

1Year experience
1Award received

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Boston University - MS Cert Clinical Development Strategies: Beyond Clinical Trials Cert Mastering Negotiation & Influence Cert Competitive Strategy Cert Strategy, Entrepreneurship & Innovation Member Women in Science and Entrepreneurship (WISE) Member Ladies Who Lead

Her Story

About Samiksha

Samiksha Shah is a biotechnology and pharmaceutical executive, entrepreneur, and strategic innovator with a strong foundation in neuroscience, biochemistry, and pharmaceutical development. She earned her undergraduate degree in Biochemistry and Neuroscience from Brandeis University and a Master of Science in Neurobiology and Behavior from Boston University Medical School. To further strengthen her leadership capabilities, she also completed a General Management program focused on AI-driven leadership and strategic decision-making.

Over the course of her career, Samiksha has accumulated approximately a decade of experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, holding key roles at leading organizations including Biogen, Intergalactic Therapeutics, and Novartis. She has successfully led cross-functional teams across the full drug development lifecycle—from early discovery and preclinical research through development and commercialization. Recognized as one of the youngest leaders within a major global pharmaceutical company, she has guided therapeutic programs to critical milestones while driving strategic portfolio management, alliance development, and innovation.

Today, Samiksha is the Founder and CEO of What's Next for Pharma, a strategic insights platform dedicated to advancing the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries through digital innovation, artificial intelligence, and integrated decision-making. Her work focuses on helping industry leaders navigate an increasingly complex healthcare landscape by leveraging emerging technologies, fostering collaboration, and transforming portfolio development. Through her leadership, she continues to shape conversations around the future of biotech and pharmaceuticals, enabling organizations to make smarter, data-driven decisions that accelerate innovation and improve patient outcomes.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Samiksha

01What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to my passion for helping people, my commitment to continuous learning, and my willingness to embrace innovation. Over the past 10 years in the biopharmaceutical industry, I have combined my background in biochemistry and neuroscience with expertise in digital technologies and AI to drive meaningful advancements in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. As the founder of What's for Next Pharma and a leader who has helped bring therapeutic products to market, I am most fulfilled by creating solutions that improve healthcare and make a positive impact on people's lives.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

The best career advice I’ve ever received is to never be afraid to build my own path and to always question the status quo. Those two principles have guided me toward a unique and unconventional career journey—one that may look different from others but has been incredibly fulfilling and has allowed me to create meaningful impact.

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