Joel Krikston

Managing Director and Investor with extensive board experience

Joel Krikston is a prominent figure in the field of healthcare innovation, serving as the Co-Founder and Managing Director of MSD Idea Studios at MSD (known as Merck in the U.S. and Canada). His role involves spearheading initiatives aimed at fostering collaboration between MSD and startup ecosystems in Europe and Asia, particularly through the launch of MSD Idea Studios in Singapore and Berlin. These studios are designed to support early-stage companies focused on innovative healthcare solutions, with a significant investment commitment of $38 million over three years.1 2

Professional Background

Krikston has extensive experience in venture capital and corporate innovation. He has been with the Merck Global Health Innovation Fund (MGHIF) since 2013, where he manages venture investments and has held various leadership roles. His previous positions include:

Head of Strategic Innovation Alliances at MGHIF
Board member for several healthcare technology companies, including Cancer IQ and Infectious Disease Connect
Guest lecturer at Princeton University and mentor at NYU Stern School of Business.3

Educational Background

Krikston holds an MBA from NYU, where he was recognized by the Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society, an honor awarded to top business students globally. He has also participated in leadership development programs at prestigious institutions like Harvard Business School and MIT.3

Vision and Impact

Under Krikston's leadership, MSD Idea Studios aims to accelerate healthcare innovations that improve patient outcomes. The initiative emphasizes partnerships with startups that align with MSD's strategic interests, including cancer therapies, vaccination access, and disease diagnostics.2 4 His work reflects a commitment to leveraging digital technologies and data science to enhance healthcare delivery globally.

In summary, Joel Krikston is a key player in advancing healthcare innovation through strategic investments and collaborations aimed at fostering growth in the biotech sector.

Highlights

Jul 15 · ceoinsightsasia.com

MSD Unveils IDEA Studios Fund to Boost Global Health Innovation

Jun 26 · community.hlth.com

Home | HLTH Community

Jun 20 · globalventuring.com

MSD's venture unit plans $38m spending in Europe and Asia -

Jun 18 · msd.com

MSD Launches IDEA Studios to Fuel Health Care Innovation

Experience

Managing Director Venture Investments at Merck Global Health Innovation Fund (September 2013 - Present)

Head of Strategic Innovation Alliances (March 2019 - Present), Board Director at multiple companies, Principal Venture Investments at Johnson & Johnson (June 2011 - May 2013), Senior Director of Business Development at Johnson & Johnson (August 2009 - June 2011), Director of Business Development at Johnson & Johnson (April 2006 - August 2009)