Applied Pharmaceutical Innovation (API), one of Canada's leading life sciences commercialization organizations, has appointed Dr. Launa Aspeslet as its first Chief Translational Officer. The appointment comes at a critical time for Canada's life sciences sector, which is experiencing significant growth, particularly in Alberta.
Dr. Aspeslet brings nearly three decades of experience spanning the full spectrum of life sciences innovation. Her career encompasses work with both small biotech startups and multinational pharmaceutical companies, where she has successfully guided multiple products from early-stage R&D through to FDA regulatory approval.
"With the momentum building in Alberta's life sciences sector—from homegrown success stories like Nanostics, Voyageur, and Pacylex, to major initiatives like the Canadian Critical Drug Initiative—there's never been a more important time to support early-stage companies ready to grow," said Dr. Aspeslet.
Extensive Industry Experience
Throughout her career, Dr. Aspeslet has led hundreds of complex regulatory interactions across major global markets, demonstrating deep expertise in strategy, compliance, and execution. She has also proven her operational capabilities by scaling a clinical research organization to global operations in over 20 countries, growing the team to more than 300 employees.
Her relationship with API is not new—Dr. Aspeslet has previously served as both an Advisor and Chair of API's Board, making her an integral part of the organization since its inception.
In her newly created executive role, Dr. Aspeslet will oversee API's regulatory affairs, pre-clinical and clinical development, quantitative solutions, and early product prototyping. This comprehensive oversight aligns with her vision to transform API into "a one-stop shop for early-stage innovators—from lead selection and proof-of-concept studies to clinical trials and product launch."
Strategic Significance for Canadian Life Sciences
API Chief Executive Officer Andrew MacIsaac emphasized the strategic importance of this appointment: "Launa has been a driving force behind API from the very beginning, and her proven ability to take discoveries from the lab bench to market is unmatched. She brings both vision and operational excellence, and her leadership in this new role will ensure we continue to meet the needs of scaling companies across Canada and beyond."
MacIsaac further noted that this appointment represents "a major step forward in our mission to make Canada—and particularly Alberta—a global hub for life sciences commercialization."
Bridging Academia and Industry
As a not-for-profit commercialization organization, API plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between academic research and commercial applications. The organization supports the full development and manufacturing lifecycle, from early-stage research to clinical trials and commercial production.
Through its network of scientists, clinicians, and regulatory experts, API assists companies in commercializing pharmaceuticals, medical devices, natural health products, and more. By fostering local talent and resources, API helps companies develop intellectual property within Canada while securing the country's supply of critical medicines.
As Alberta's life sciences ecosystem continues to gain global attention, API remains committed to empowering companies at all stages with the infrastructure, expertise, and strategic support they need to thrive. Dr. Aspeslet's appointment reinforces this commitment and positions API to further accelerate innovation in Canada's life sciences sector.
