An Unexpected Fight: A Pediatric Cancer podcast

Dr. Richard Gaster

Richard Gaster, M.D., Ph.D., is a Managing Partner at venBio with experience as a physician, entrepreneur, and life science investor. Now, a cancer dad. 

He has helped to launch, invest, and serve on the board of or as board observer of a number of venBio companies. Prior to joining venBio, Dr. Gaster served as the head of translational medicine at Pliant Therapeutics. As a key member of the founding management team, Dr. Gaster was instrumental in the formation and launch of Pliant Therapeutics from Third Rock Ventures where he previously served as a Senior Associate.

Dr. Gaster has published numerous articles in top-tier peer-reviewed journals including Nature Medicine and Nature Nanotechnology, holds more than a dozen patents, was awarded first prize in the IEEE Change the World Competition, and was named one of Forbes “30 Under 30” in Science and Healthcare.

Dr. Gaster holds a B.S.E in Bioengineering from the University of Pennsylvania where he graduated summa cum laude and was a University Scholar. He received his M.D. and Ph.D. in Bioengineering from Stanford University in the Medical Scientist Training Program.

On March 1, 2024, my daughter, Claire experienced a seizure. She was diagnosed with a type of brain cancer called AT/RT (atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor), a highly aggressive grade IV glioma..... tune in for the rest of the story!


You can also get involved with the Gold Ribbon Kids Cancer Foundation or the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation through fundraising, volunteering, promoting awareness, or contributing to pediatric cancer research. Visit goldribbon-kids.org or nationalpcf.org for more information

To contact Tiffany, please email info@goldribbon-kids.org
To contact Kelly, please email kgoddard@nationalpcf.org

Support the show

People on this episode