Caryn Mc Dowell
About Caryn Mc Dowell
Caryn McDowell is a Founding Limited Partner at How Women Invest and a Board Member of the Policy & Advocacy Committee at California Life Sciences. With over 25 years of experience in the life sciences industry, she has held various senior legal roles and is dedicated to promoting innovation and diversity in the sector.
Work at How Women Invest
Caryn McDowell serves as a Founding Limited Partner at How Women Invest, a venture capital firm established to support female startup founders, with a particular focus on women of color. She has held this position since 2020, contributing to the firm's mission of advancing diversity and innovation in the startup ecosystem. Her role involves strategic investment decisions and mentorship for emerging female entrepreneurs.
Current Roles and Committees
In addition to her role at How Women Invest, Caryn McDowell has been a Board Member of the Policy & Advocacy Committee at California Life Sciences since 2021. In this capacity, she plays a significant role in shaping public policy and promoting equity within the life sciences sector. Her involvement reflects her commitment to advancing social impact and innovation in the industry.
Professional Background in Life Sciences
Caryn McDowell has over 25 years of experience in the life sciences industry. Her career includes key positions at various organizations, such as Revance Biotechnology, Cytokinetics, and InterMune, where she focused on legal and compliance matters. Her expertise encompasses launching innovative drugs in neurology, oncology, and rare diseases, showcasing her deep understanding of the industry.
Education and Expertise
Caryn McDowell earned her Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Boston University School of Law, specializing in Healthcare Law. She also completed the Boardroom Ready Executive Development Program at The George Washington University School of Business in 2019. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and Judaic Studies from the University of Michigan. Her educational background supports her extensive expertise in corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, and risk management.
Previous Leadership Roles
Throughout her career, Caryn McDowell has held several leadership positions in prominent life sciences companies. She served as Global Chief Legal Officer at Dompé, Chief Legal and Administrative Officer at Quince Therapeutics, and Associate General Counsel at Onyx Pharmaceuticals. These roles have equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of corporate securities, licensing, and human resources within the life sciences sector.