Andrea Pfeifer - Biotechnologist
Challenges came early in Andrea Pfeifer’s life: both her parents suffered from chronic diseases, an experience that surely formed her character. She rapidly carved out an exemplary career in pharmacology, with stops at the National Institutes of Health in the US and as head of research at Nestlé. Such success might have drained the ambition from some people but Andrea Pfeifer was eager for another challenge. Starting from null, she grounded AC Immune in 2003 with the aim of developing medications specifically to combat Alzheimer's. Named Entrepreneur of the Year in 2009 by Ernst & Young, she is pursuing her dream of developing an effective medication with her typical discipline and passion.