Dave Bearss
person active confidence: Medium status: Draft updated 2026-06-19
Summary
Dave Bearss is a Utah drug-discovery scientist and entrepreneur who spans academic translational programs and venture-backed clinical-stage companies. Bearss represents a connective tissue role in Utah life sciences: he works in the academic-to-venture translation layer that most ecosystems lack.
Impact
Bearss represents a connective tissue role in Utah life sciences: he works in the academic-to-venture translation layer that most ecosystems lack. U2TAH's mandate covers all disease areas, giving Bearss broad influence over which early university discoveries become venture-backed programs. Halia Therapeutics's lead candidate, ofirnoflast (HT-6184), is a first-in-class allosteric NEK7 inhibitor in clinical development — a tangible output of his scientific drug-discovery work.
What They Offer
Deep experience in academic drug discovery at the University of Utah, oncology and inflammation expertise, and network connections across Utah's life-sciences ecosystem — particularly the HCI, PIVOT Center, and U2TAH triangle. For therapeutics founders, Bearss represents a potential pathway into U of U resources, collaboration, and commercialization infrastructure.
What They're Looking For
Not known from public sources. Inference: most likely interested in scientifically credible drug programs with university roots, particularly those targeting chronic inflammation, aging biology, or cancer.
Track Record
- Senior Managing Director, U2TAH (University of Utah Therapeutic Accelerator Hub, $22.5M commitment)
- Founder, Halia Therapeutics — lead program ofirnoflast (HT-6184), first-in-class allosteric NEK7 inhibitor in clinical trials
- Publicly affiliated with Huntsman Cancer Institute translational work
Good Fits
Early-stage U of U therapeutics spinout founders seeking translational guidance; founders in inflammation, oncology, or aging biology looking for academic-ecosystem connections; researchers translating laboratory programs into IND-enabling studies.
Public Connection Path
University of Utah Therapeutic Accelerator Hub and Halia Therapeutics public channels; conference appearances at Utah life-sciences venues.
Evidence
See Also
- Halia Therapeutics
- Huntsman Cancer Institute
- Curza — another U of U therapeutics spinout
Open Questions
- What is Bearss's current primary affiliation balance between U2TAH leadership and Halia operations?
- Is there a public intake path for founders seeking U2TAH support?
- What are the current criteria and stage requirements for U2TAH engagement?