Visionary Leader in
Biomedical Innovation
With over two decades of strategic leadership in the biomedical sector, Michal Pohludka has been instrumental in pioneering advancements that bridge academic research with practical healthcare solutions.
Education
Michal began his academic journey with a Master of Science (MSc.) in Biochemistry, laying the foundation for his expertise in molecular sciences. He then pursued a Ph.D. in Molecular Pathology at the First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University. To complement his scientific background, he expanded his education with an MBA in Business Management and an LL.M. in Corporate Governance, further enriched by an MSc. in Economics. This multidisciplinary education has equipped him with a unique perspective, seamlessly integrating scientific research with business acumen.
Tenure at Bio-Rad Laboratories
Between 2008 and 2019, Michal held pivotal managerial roles at Bio-Rad Laboratories, a global leader in clinical diagnostics and life sciences research. He oversaw operations in the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Slovakia, and was responsible for training sales teams across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Russia. His tenure was marked by significant regional growth and the successful implementation of innovative diagnostic solutions.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Innovations
In 2019, Michal founded mikeVision, a consultancy and investment firm dedicated to nurturing biomedical startups. Through mikeVision, he has invested in and co-founded several groundbreaking companies:
- GeneSpector: During the COVID-19 pandemic, in collaboration with Professor Stanislav Kmoch from Charles University, Michal co-developed a rapid PCR diagnostic kit for SARS-CoV-2. Launched through the spin-off GeneSpector, the company achieved a turnover exceeding 600 million CZK within its first 18 months, with its testing solutions adopted by one-third of Czech laboratories. (cc.cz)
- Macromo: A company focused on preventing chronic diseases by analyzing genetic predispositions, blood markers, and lifestyle factors.
- SeveriDx and Lab On Card: Established in 2024, these subsidiaries specialize in innovative diagnostic technologies, including lab-on-card solutions that enable rapid, field-deployable diagnostics using minimal biological samples. (genespector.com)
Leadership at Charles University Innovations Prague (CUIP)
From November 2021 to October 2024, Michal served as Vice Chairman of the Board at CUIP, the technology transfer subsidiary of Charles University. During his tenure, CUIP successfully commercialized 17 patents, issued 73 licenses, and established 10 spin-off companies, setting a benchmark for technology transfer in the Czech Republic. (cuip.cz)
Authorship and Thought Leadership
Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Michal is an accomplished author, contributing to both scientific literature and popular management publications. His notable works include Byznys Trip (2016), Jak zvládnout práci manažera (2018), Stojí to za to (2019), and Hrdinové covidu aneb Mezi laboratoří a vlivem (2023). His scientific research spans topics such as CRM implementation, ERP systems, corporate structures, and molecular diagnostics, with over 338 citations and an h-index of 9.