Alexander Neumeister
Alexander Neumeister is an Austrian-American physician-scientist and biotechnology executive specializing in neuroscience, clinical psychopharmacology, and translational research. He has held academic and clinical leadership roles at major U.S. institutions and currently works in the biotech industry, focusing on clinical development programs across diverse therapeutic areas.
He is based in Boston, Massachusetts, and is known for advancing treatments for central nervous system disorders and other conditions through scientific research and regulatory collaboration.
Early life and education
Neumeister was born in Vienna, Austria, where he was raised in a culturally rich environment. He studied piano professionally and developed strong interests in both music and science. He earned his M.D. from the University of Vienna Medical School between 1984 and 1990, and completed his residency in psychiatry and neurology at the University of Vienna in 1998.
Research and academic career
In 2001, Neumeister joined the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in Bethesda, Maryland, as a research fellow in experimental psychopharmacology. His work focused on using neuroimaging and genetic techniques to study molecular mechanisms underlying mood and anxiety disorders.
He held faculty appointments at Yale University School of Medicine, the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and New York University School of Medicine. From 2006 to 2010, he directed the PTSD Research Program at the VA Connecticut Healthcare System. His research contributions included work on neuroimaging, biomarkers, and drug development strategies in mental health.
Neumeister has authored over 300 peer-reviewed publications and book chapters, and delivered more than 300 invited lectures worldwide. He has collaborated with regulatory agencies such as the FDA, EMA, MFDS, and ANZCTR. During one stage of his academic career, he was involved in the mishandling of research funds, for which he accepted responsibility and completed legal resolutions. He fulfilled community service by performing piano music for elderly individuals in care facilities. This experience influenced his approach to ethical leadership and mentorship.
Biotechnology career
Neumeister has worked in executive roles within the biotechnology sector, overseeing clinical development for treatments targeting a range of conditions including central nervous system disorders, ophthalmology, dermatology, infectious diseases, and metabolic conditions.
As Head of Clinical Development at OliX Pharmaceuticals in Boston, he led programs focused on neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. His work contributed to a $630 million licensing agreement and advanced assets through early-stage development and regulatory review.
Currently at AskBio, Inc., Neumeister leads clinical development programs within the company’s gene therapy portfolio. He focuses on designing innovative, scientifically rigorous, and patient-centered clinical strategies, working closely with research, regulatory, and commercial teams.
Personal life
Neumeister has three children. His eldest daughter, Anne-Sophie, a graduate of Fordham University, passed away in 2021. His son Nicolas is a medical student at Brown University, and his youngest son, Timothy, is involved in biological research at Massachusetts General Hospital.
He lives in Boston, Massachusetts, and participates in public health advocacy, community outreach, and mentorship for emerging scientists. He also maintains an appreciation for the arts and nature, caring for a personal plant collection and supporting local cultural institutions.