Core Insights - Chen Li, founder and CEO of Hualing Pharmaceutical, has been recognized as an outstanding figure in the overseas Chinese community in Shanghai for his contributions to bridging Chinese and international pharmaceutical innovation [1][6] Group 1: Background and Experience - Chen Li worked at Roche's R&D center in the U.S. in 1992, focusing on high-throughput technology, which is now associated with AI in drug design and screening [1][3] - He served as the president of the Sino-American Pharmaceutical Professionals Association (SAPA), facilitating collaboration between overseas experts and Shanghai's Science and Technology Commission [3][4] Group 2: Establishment of Hualing Pharmaceutical - In 2004, Chen established Roche's drug research and early development center in Shanghai, marking it as the first independent drug R&D center by a multinational company in the city [3][4] - Chen's vision was to focus solely on innovative drugs, countering the reliance on Western medications for Chinese patients [3][4] Group 3: Challenges and Innovations - Hualing Pharmaceutical faced significant challenges in the early years, particularly with China's drug review system favoring generic drugs over innovative ones [6] - Chen successfully advocated for a dedicated review system for innovative drugs, leading to the rapid approval of the diabetes drug Huatangning, which has since benefited nearly 400,000 Chinese patients [6][7] Group 4: Future Vision and Impact - Chen emphasizes the importance of new productive forces in leading the development of innovative drugs in China, advocating for the integration of advanced technologies and personalized treatment plans [6][7] - He encourages young professionals in the overseas Chinese community to leverage their unique perspectives to drive technological innovation [6][7]
“上海市侨界杰出人物”陈力：引领中华医药创新崛起