Peptide chemistry is a complex, fast-evolving field—and Manjula Reddy, Associate Director at Sai Life Sciences, is one of those rare experts who combines deep knowledge with a clear vision to push the boundaries of drug development.
With 14 years of experience spanning academic research and industry 10, Manjula’s career reflects dedication and passion. She earned her PhD from Osmania University, focusing on Metallo reagents for DNA cleavage, and went on to postdoctoral research in Germany and France, she deepened her expertise in peptide synthesis and biophysical studies, laying the foundation for her innovative work.
Actively engaged with the global peptide community, she attended the American Peptide Symposium, showcasing Sai Life Sciences’ capabilities, fostering collaborations, and sharing expertise to accelerate next-generation therapeutics.
Her skills include solid phase peptide synthesis, reverse phase purification, and conformational analysis using CD, amino acid analysis, peptide sequencing, fluorescence, UV, and IR spectroscopy. She also designs DNA hydrolytic cleavage agents using metal-peptide complexes, blending analytical precision with creative problem-solving.
Manjula began her industry career at Mylan Laboratories, later leading projects at Issar Pharmaceuticals and Hetero Labs to develop generic peptide drugs—many earning regulatory approvals—and establishing peptide R&D facilities from scratch.
Dr. Reddy has earned the ANR Postdoctoral Fellowship (France), SFB 765 Fellowship (Germany), and ranked first in her division during SSC. In industry, she developed the novel 21-mer Geno pep process at Issar Pharmaceuticals, earning DCGI approval, and led the development of multiple generic peptides at Hetero Labs, including Icatibant Acetate, Liraglutide, and Semaglutide, many achieving regulatory clearance and market entry.
Since 2021, she has been instrumental in establishing Sai Life Sciences’ peptide chemistry facility, leading global projects on cyclic, PEGylated, stapled, and PROTACs-coupled peptides, as well as drug conjugates and advanced modifications.
She has authored widely cited papers, with several featured on journal cover pages, and presented at major international conferences. Her blend of passion, precision, and persistence continues to inspire peers and shape the future of therapeutic peptide development.