George D. Yancopoulos, M.D., Ph.D., is an American scientist, the self-made billionaire co-founder, President, and Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) of Regeneron Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: REGN). He is widely recognized as one of the most successful drug discoverers and scientists in biotech history. Born in 1959 in New York City, he is the son of Greek immigrants and attended public schools.

Yancopoulos's academic career is extraordinary: he graduated as valedictorian of the Bronx High School of Science (where he was a top winner of the Westinghouse Science Talent Search), and later became valedictorian of Columbia College. He earned his M.D. and Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics from Columbia University. This unparalleled scientific rigor is the foundation of his career in drug development.

Dr. George Yancopoulos left a promising academic career at Columbia in 1989 to become the founding scientist and CSO of Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, partnering with founder Leonard Schleifer. His strategic vision was to build a company dedicated to fundamental medical discovery, developing foundational technologies for target and drug development (such as TRAP, VelociGene, and VelocImmune antibody technologies).

Under his scientific leadership, Regeneron has developed ten FDA-approved or -authorized treatments, including those for blindness, severe asthma, and cancer. He was named President of the company in 2016 and elevated to Board Co-Chair in 2023. He holds over 100 patents. His immense wealth is secured by his long-term equity in the publicly traded biotech giant, and his legacy is cemented by his contributions to molecular immunology and drug discovery.

Dr. George Yancopoulos's social impact is massive and structural, tied to Regeneron's role in discovering and delivering life-saving treatments for global diseases. The company's technology has transformed the treatment landscape for multiple sclerosis, blindness, and oncology.

His structural contribution to science education is notable: he was a top winner of the Westinghouse Science Talent Search (now the Regeneron Science Talent Search), demonstrating his commitment to fostering future scientific talent. He received the Biotechnology Heritage Award in 2025.

Dr. George Yancopoulos maintains the professional, intellectual style of a scientist-executive. His attire is often casual and pragmatic, favoring collared shirts and a focus on scientific rigor. His aesthetic is one of confident, data-driven authority.

Residing in New York, his luxury is the immense security and autonomy derived from his multi-billion dollar fortune. His life is dedicated to fundamental scientific discovery, drug development, and his profound commitment to advancing human health.