Dr. Stanley Crooke recently captivated faculty, students, and postdoctoral associates at the Berkowitz Distinguished Seminar Series with two compelling presentations on the evolution of RNA-targeted therapeutics. His talks traced the journey from fundamental discovery to the creation of entirely new therapeutic platforms, offering profound lessons on how perseverance and rigorous science can transform the field of drug development.
From Discovery to Clinical Impact
Dr. Crooke’s presentations highlighted the scientific and organizational principles behind the development of antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) drugs. What resonated most with the audience was his emphasis on building “learning organizations”—environments where scientists can take informed risks and continuously question assumptions to accelerate innovation and impact.
“These ideas bridge molecular pharmacology, drug delivery, and translational biotechnology in ways that align perfectly with our school’s mission,” explained Mansoor Amiji, PhD, University Distinguished Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Dr. Crooke’s work on RNA therapeutics underscores the expanding role of nucleic acid-based medicines in addressing previously undruggable targets—an area that continues to influence research at Northeastern.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The seminar sparked particularly strong engagement during the Q&A session, when a student asked Dr. Crooke how he balances bold innovation with the high failure rates of drug development. His memorable response—”Failure is the tuition you pay for discovery”—resonated throughout the room and sparked lively exchanges about resilience and culture-building in biotech.
Students were captivated by Dr. Crooke’s journey from academic pharmacologist to founder of a successful biotech company, seeing it as proof that leadership and innovation are skills developed through mentorship and mission-driven science.
Research Applications
The seminar’s insights directly connect to ongoing research at the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, including work on nanoparticle drug delivery, gene silencing technologies, and oral biotherapeutic formulations. Dr. Crooke’s approach to designing therapeutics that consider molecular targets alongside delivery, safety, and long-term patient benefit offers potential for new collaborations integrating antisense or siRNA strategies with next-generation delivery platforms.
“Dr. Crooke’s seminar was an inspiring reminder that transformative science comes from curiosity paired with courage,” said Dr. Amiji. “His pioneering work in RNA therapeutics continues to redefine what’s possible in drug discovery and delivery.”
Continuing the Legacy
The Berkowitz Distinguished Seminar Series is made possible through the generous support of Dr. Barry A. Berkowitz, a proud Northeastern School of Pharmacy alumnus. His vision for fostering scientific dialogue and mentorship has created a platform connecting students, faculty, and industry leaders with pioneers shaping the future of pharmaceutical innovation.
Faculty, students, and alumni interested in supporting future seminar events, which helps bring visionary scientists to Northeastern and fosters mentorship opportunities for the next generation of translational researchers, to do so through the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Dean’s Fund.
For information about upcoming Berkowitz Distinguished Seminar Series events, visit the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences website.
