Brian Lian, Ph.D., serves as the Chief Executive Officer at Viking Therapeutics Inc., a position he has held since the company's inception. Dr. Lian is a seasoned biotechnology executive with a strong background in drug development and corporate leadership. He earned his Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of California, San Diego, and has since built an impressive career in the biopharmaceutical industry. Prior to founding Viking Therapeutics, Dr. Lian held various leadership roles at several prominent biotech companies, including serving as Vice President of Corporate Development at Exelixis, Inc., where he was instrumental in forging strategic partnerships and advancing the company's drug pipeline. At Viking Therapeutics, Dr. Lian has been pivotal in steering the company's focus towards developing novel therapies for metabolic and endocrine disorders. Under his leadership, Viking has made significant strides in advancing its clinical programs, notably with VK2809, a drug candidate for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and VK0214, a potential treatment for X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH). Dr. Lian's strategic vision and dedication to innovation have been crucial in securing substantial funding and forging key collaborations that have propelled Viking's growth and development. His ability to navigate the complex landscape of drug development and his commitment to improving patient outcomes have solidified his reputation as a respected leader in the biotechnology sector. In addition to his role at Viking Therapeutics, Dr. Lian is actively involved in the broader scientific community. He has authored numerous publications and is a frequent speaker at industry conferences, where he shares insights on the latest advancements in metabolic disease research and drug development strategies. His contributions extend beyond the company, as he serves on the board of directors for several organizations and participates in advisory roles, further demonstrating his commitment to advancing the field of biotechnology. Dr. Lian's leadership continues to drive Viking Therapeutics forward, positioning the company as a key player in the development of transformative therapies for patients worldwide.