Our CEO Abbas Kazimi was recently interviewed for a LifeSciVC article by Aimee Raleigh from Atlas Venture, exploring frameworks for decision-making and the concept of “failing fast” in drug discovery.

Data-Driven Decision Making

Between 2016 and 2022, Nimbus discontinued 70% of our programs for various scientific, commercial, or competitive reasons. Rather than viewing these as failures, we celebrate these decisions as much as program advances—they free up resources to focus on our most promising opportunities.

Our approach emphasizes rigorous, objective evaluation based on predetermined criteria. When we reach a “no-go” decision efficiently, we’ve gained valuable knowledge and can redirect efforts toward programs with greater potential for patient impact.

This disciplined approach has enabled significant successes, including our TYK2 inhibitor program (now advancing with Takeda) and our WRN inhibitor program.

Framework for the Industry

The LifeSciVC article outlines practical frameworks applicable across biotech:

• Establish clear success criteria before launching programs
• Map out potential outcomes before experimental readouts
• Maintain objectivity when evaluating data against benchmarks
• Align stakeholders on success definitions upfront

As the industry continues navigating resource allocation and strategic focus, these decision-making frameworks become increasingly critical for teams across the biotech ecosystem.

Read the full LifeSciVC article: Frameworks for Decision-Making & Lessons Learned from “Failing Fast” (April 17, 2025)