P. Kent Hawryluk, Ph.D., serves as Chief Scientific Officer at MBX Biosciences Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company pioneering long-acting peptide therapeutics for endocrine and metabolic disorders. With over 25 years of experience in drug discovery and development, Dr. Hawryluk leads the company's scientific strategy, overseeing pipeline advancement from preclinical research to clinical trials. His expertise in peptide engineering and protein therapeutics has been instrumental in positioning MBX's lead candidates, including MBX 2109 for obesity and MBX 2982 for congenital hyperinsulinism, toward key milestones. Prior to joining MBX in 2021, Dr. Hawryluk held senior leadership roles at Alkermes, where he directed programs in neuroscience and oncology, contributing to multiple investigational new drug applications and phase transitions. Earlier in his career, he advanced peptide-based therapies at Amylin Pharmaceuticals, playing a pivotal role in the development of pramlintide (Symlin), an FDA-approved treatment for diabetes. His work has resulted in over 40 peer-reviewed publications, numerous patents, and awards for innovation in biopharmaceutical R&D. Under Dr. Hawryluk's guidance, MBX Biosciences has strengthened its position as a leader in half-life extension technologies, securing significant venture funding and forging strategic partnerships. A graduate of the University of Alberta with a Ph.D. in medicinal chemistry, he remains committed to translating scientific breakthroughs into transformative therapies for patients with unmet medical needs.