Kirk Taylor, MD

Kirk Taylor, MD is an accomplished physician-executive and life sciences leader with more than 25 years of experience spanning drug development, medical affairs, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and public-sector leadership. A neurologist by training, his career has focused on advancing innovative therapies across oncology, neurology and rare diseases, with a strong emphasis on addressing unmet patient needs. 

In November 2026, Dr. Taylor joins the CLL Society as Chief Medical Officer, having served on the organization's Board of Directors for several years. In his new role, he succeeds Brian Koffman, MDCM and brings extensive medical leadership and drug-development experience, including previous work in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). 

Most recently, Dr. Taylor served as President and CEO of the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC), where he led efforts to strengthen Massachusetts' life sciences ecosystem through innovation, public-private partnerships, economic development and investment in emerging areas of science and technology. 

Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at Pfizer, Sanofi, Biogen and EMD Serono (Merck KGaA), as well as biotechnology companies including Finch Therapeutics, Verastem Oncology and Brainstorm Cell Therapeutics, where he served as Chief Medical Officer, Executive Vice President and Advisor. His experience spans the drug-development lifecycle from clinical development and regulatory strategy through commercialization and product launch, alongside work with emerging companies pursuing Series A, B and C financing and IPOs. 

Dr. Taylor earned his BA in English Literature from Harvard College and his MD from SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, followed by neurology residency training and postdoctoral work in neuropathic pain and headache at UCSF. He has also completed executive leadership programs at Stanford, INSEAD and Harvard Business School.