Ask Acumen

Karen Sundell

Clinical Research Scientist

How long have you been involved in Alzheimer’s Research?

I worked at Eli Lilly from 1988 to 2017, with the last 10 years as a clinical research scientist in Alzheimer’s research on the Phase 3 semagacestat and solanezumab studies. I started with Acumen as a consultant in 2020, then became an employee in 2021.  Officially, I’m Employee #5!

What initially drew you to Acumen and our company’s mission?

After I retired from Lilly in 2017, I worked for a small biotech company, but I always felt called to return to Alzheimer’s research. I was drawn to the fact that Acumen was a small company so I could have a broad range of responsibilities across nonclinical and clinical. I was also drawn to sabirnetug’s promising selectivity for Aβ oligomers.

What is a significant accomplishment or project you’ve been involved in that made a difference in advancing Acumen’s vision?

With only a handful of full-time employees, getting the Phase 1 study up and running was a uniquely challenging and exciting time.

Which of Acumen’s four values (People, Integrity, Innovation, and Perseverance) resonates most with your work and role?

This changes daily depending on what I’m working on, but perseverance to solve problems resonates most strongly.

From your perspective, what sets our company apart in the field of Alzheimer’s research?

Even though we are a small company, we have a wide range of experience in amyloid beta antibody therapies.  And because we are a small company, everyone can see the impact their job brings to the company and to Alzheimer’s research.

Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests that you enjoy in your free time?

Nature – I birdwatch, garden and love to watch the seasons unfold in my yard by watching what is blooming, which birds are coming and going and nesting. I started quilting years ago and have evolved into doing fiber art. Most of my art is nature inspired, so two interests combined into one.

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