Neil Shahrestani

Dr. Neil Shahrestani is the cofounder and CIO of Dallas-based hedge fund Ikarian Capital. The hedge fund is focused on equity, Long/Short biotech and pharmaceuticals. Before he cofounded Ikarian Capital, Shahrestani earned a degree in Economics from Columbia University and went on to graduate medical school with Highest Honors. After his graduation, Dr. Neil Shahrestani worked on Wall Street at Goldman Sachs and SAC Capital. His background lies in the areas of finance and medicine, which makesmaking him uniquely qualified to evaluate and invest in drug companies.

At Ikarian Capital, Dr. Shahrestani's primary role is in biotech research; where he analyzes drug companies based off on a multitude of factors. The disciplined research and risk processes involved in the analysis reflect the importance that Dr. Shahrestani and his firm place on long-term capital preservation.

As part of the research and risk assessment process, Dr. Shahrestani will determine the best entry and exit points for his investments by evaluating numerous factors such as: The molecular structure and biochemical components of the drugs in clinical trials, the structure and design of the clinical trials, the efficacy of the drug in patients, and the estimated sales of said drugs. This strategy allows Dr. Shahrestani to invest successfully in both long and short positions based on his evaluation of the drug, trials, and company lifecycle.

In his down time, Neil Shahrestani loves to spend time with his wife Katie and enjoys traveling. Neil and Katie are also dedicated to the empowerment of young women around the world. They are both actively involved in girls’ softball and in scholarship programs for young women as a result of their commitment. Dr. Shahrestani and his wife also regularly volunteer at homeless shelters throughout the Dallas area.