Dr. Todd Zion is a leading innovator in protein therapeutics and drug delivery technologies, with more than two decades of experience founding and scaling life sciences companies. He is the co-founder, President, and CEO of Akston, where he also serves as Chairman of the Board. At Akston, Dr. Zion co-developed the proprietary Ambifect® protein platform, which underpins a pipeline of novel biologics including vaccines, ultra-long-acting therapeutics, and treatments for autoimmune diseases. Under his leadership, Akston has strategically pivoted to become the premier company advancing next-generation biotech for companion animals, establishing itself as a leader in veterinary biologics while continuing to innovate in human health. His leadership has been central to advancing strategic global partnerships, including with Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC, and to positioning Akston as a pioneer in next-generation biologics.
Previously, Dr. Zion founded SmartCells, Inc., where as President and CEO he led the development of SmartInsulin™—the first clinically tested, glucose-responsive insulin. He successfully secured over $20 million in equity and grant funding and guided the company through its acquisition by Merck & Co., Inc. in 2010.
Dr. Zion is an inventor on more than 40 patents spanning his time at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, SmartCells, and Akston. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from MIT and graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Cornell University. In addition to his entrepreneurial achievements, he contributes actively to academia and mentorship, serving as Associate Director at MIT’s Venture Mentoring Service and as a member of the Chemical Engineering Visiting Committees at both MIT and Cornell University.