Mike Cooke

Dr. Michael Cooke earned his PhD in stem cell biology from the University of Durham (UK), where he focused on strategies for controlling cell fate. For his post-doctoral work, Dr. Cooke joined Dr. Molly Shoichet’s laboratory at the University of Toronto to investigate the use of a hydrogel (HAMC) in combination with neural stem/progenitor cells for repairing stroke-induced brain damage in mice. His research demonstrated that hydrogel-enhanced cells could promote functional recovery, laying the foundation for future clinical applications. Dr. Cooke and Dr. Shoichet have since collaborated extensively, co-founding AmacaThera to commercialize a proprietary hydrogel platform capable of delivering a wide range of therapeutic molecules. Under Dr. Cooke’s leadership as CEO, AmacaThera has developed a lead product targeting post-operative pain management and is expanding into oncology and other areas. The company has completed a successful Phase 1 clinical trial and raised over US$13 million in financing, while also establishing several key strategic partnerships. Most recently, Dr Cooke secured a $230M partnership with Pacira Biosciences to advance the lead asset through to commercial approval.