Sanofi's new research chief discusses AI, R&D failure rates, and dealmaking

Sanofi named Paulo Fontoura global head of research and development in September, according to Endpoints News. Fontoura spent 16 years at Roche before a recent stint at Xaira Therapeutics, an AI-focused drug discovery startup, positioning him at the intersection of established pharma practice and newer computational approaches as he takes over the role.

Endpoints conducted the interview ahead of Sanofi’s October 30 earnings report. The outlet states the conversation covered Fontoura’s views on artificial intelligence’s role in drug discovery, the persistent failure rates that characterize pharmaceutical R&D, and his approach to dealmaking, an area increasingly central to how large pharma companies source new pipelines.

The published material does not detail Fontoura’s specific positions on these topics beyond identifying them as subjects of discussion. His background spans both a long tenure at a major traditional pharmaceutical company and more recent experience at a startup built around AI-driven discovery methods, a combination Endpoints frames as relevant context for his new mandate at Sanofi.

The timing of the interview, shortly before Sanofi’s quarterly earnings, suggests the company’s research direction and productivity will be under scrutiny in that report. No additional detail on departmental changes, budget allocations, or specific programs under Fontoura’s leadership is included in the available material. Endpoints News is the sole source for this account.