Liam Tremble, Principal Scientist at Poolbeg Pharma, is deeply involved in developing innovative treatments for diseases with significant unmet medical needs. His current work spans oncology, infectious diseases, and endocrinology, where he leads drug discovery efforts. Tremble collaborates closely with the Vice President of Clinical Operations, particularly on clinical trials. At Poolbeg Pharma, a small but highly experienced team works together on a variety of projects, all with a common goal of advancing clinical assets and commercialising drugs that are already approved. Their collective experience, which averages two decades per team member, plays a key role in driving the company’s success in multiple therapeutic areas.
Reflecting on his career, Tremble highlights his role at Poolbeg Pharma as the most rewarding. He was involved in the company’s spin-out from hVIVO plc in 2021 and has since taken the lead on several clinical and pre-clinical programmes. His work has given him opportunities to collaborate with global experts and thought leaders, exposing him to cutting-edge research across leading pharmaceutical and research institutions. One of his proudest moments was the strategic expansion of POLB 001, an oral preventive therapy for cancer immunotherapy-induced cytokine release syndrome (CRS). This condition affects a significant portion of patients undergoing cancer immunotherapy, often leading to prolonged hospital stays and even increased mortality risks. POLB 001 has the potential to make cancer immunotherapies more accessible, allowing for outpatient administration. Tremble is enthusiastic about the possibilities this treatment could offer and feels privileged to have played a pivotal role in its development.
In terms of advancements that have shaped his work, Tremble believes artificial intelligence (AI) has been both a challenge and a major breakthrough in drug discovery. Over the past few years, AI has evolved from being a data analysis tool to becoming instrumental in solving real-world problems. Tremble compares this transformation to how GPS technology advanced from providing directions to offering real-time, optimised navigation. At Poolbeg Pharma, AI has been used to harness data from the world’s largest human challenge trials involving respiratory infectious diseases. This extensive dataset has enabled Tremble and his team to explore new ways of treating infections by better understanding how viruses cause symptoms and how individuals become infected. AI has allowed them to achieve this in a fraction of the time and cost traditionally required, a feat Tremble finds incredibly exciting.
Throughout his career, Tremble has received valuable advice, but the piece that stands out the most is the importance of celebrating small victories. For someone as passionate about his work as Tremble, it’s easy to blur the lines between work and personal life. He believes in nurturing relationships with his team and creating moments to recognise their efforts. Whether it’s sharing a box of chocolates or organising an after-work drink, these small gestures help maintain a positive work environment and ensure the well-being of the team. Tremble is convinced that appreciating and retaining a good team is essential not only for the success of the company but also for personal satisfaction in the workplace.
For those aspiring to follow in his footsteps, Tremble advises staying open to new opportunities and finding a team that aligns with your work ethic and values. The pharmaceutical industry is fast-paced, and it’s important to be adaptable, particularly early in one’s career. He emphasises the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone and being willing to grow with the needs of the company and your colleagues. Since so much of life is spent at work, Tremble suggests finding a workplace where you genuinely enjoy the company of those around you.
If there were one book Tremble would recommend to everyone, it would be “Sum: Forty Tales from the Afterlives” by David Eagleman. The neuroscientist and adjunct professor at Stanford University offers a witty and unique perspective on how we tend to view the world in similar ways. Tremble believes that Eagleman’s short yet thought-provoking book encourages readers to shift their perspectives and look at things from a fresh angle.
Tremble’s journey at Poolbeg Pharma reflects not only the exciting advancements in drug discovery but also the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and celebrating the small wins along the way. His insights provide valuable guidance for those entering the pharmaceutical industry and underscore the transformative power of AI in shaping the future of healthcare.
Poolbeg Pharma plc (LON:POLB) is a clinical stage infectious disease pharmaceutical company, with a novel capital light clinical model which enables us to develop multiple products faster and more cost effectively than the traditional biotech model.
