Logo
SubscribeSign In
LeaderPortfolio
Billionaire Profile
George Yancopoulos
Global Rank
#2110

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

George Yancopoulos

CEO, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$0.75B
As of December 2025
Age
66
Source
Pharmaceuticals
Industry
healthcare
Citizenship
US

Biography

Dr. George D. Yancopoulos, born in 1959, is a prominent figure in the pharmaceutical industry, recognized as the co-founder, President, and Chief Scientific Officer of Regeneron Pharmaceuticals. His net worth, as of late 2025, is estimated to be $750.1 million, a testament to his success. His wealth stems primarily from his involvement with Regeneron, a leading biotechnology company focused on healthcare. Yancopoulos's career began with academic research, and he received his MD and PhD degrees from Columbia University. He joined Regeneron in 1989, where he has been instrumental in developing numerous FDA-approved treatments and foundational technologies. Yancopoulos is known for his dedication to science, and for inspiring young talent to pursue scientific careers.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

George D. Yancopoulos was born in 1959 to Greek immigrants in New York City. He spent his childhood in Woodside, New York. As a student, he attended Bronx High School of Science, where he excelled, becoming a top winner in the 1976 Westinghouse Science Talent Search. He graduated as valedictorian from both the Bronx High School of Science and Columbia College. Yancopoulos earned his MD and PhD degrees in 1987 from Columbia University's College of Physicians & Surgeons.

Rise to Success

Yancopoulos embarked on his scientific career at Columbia University, before joining Regeneron Pharmaceuticals in 1989 as the founding scientist and chief scientific officer. Along with Dr. Leonard Schleifer, he built Regeneron into a leading biotechnology company. He is a principal inventor and developer of Regeneron's FDA-approved treatments and foundational technologies.

Key Business Strategies

Yancopoulos led the invention of eleven FDA-approved drugs and a technology platform designed to invent more. His leadership at Regeneron has been characterized by a strong focus on scientific innovation, and strategic partnerships.

Philanthropy

Yancopoulos and the other founders of Regeneron, have initiated a $200 million matching program for the Good Days Retinal Fund, underscoring their commitment to patient access and community impact. Yancopoulos established the Yancopoulos Family Science Fellowship for Columbia College students in 2013.

Career Milestones

1976

Westinghouse Science Talent Search Winner

Yancopoulos was a top winner in the Westinghouse Science Talent Search, a prominent high school science competition.

1987

MD and PhD from Columbia University

Obtained medical and doctoral degrees from Columbia University's College of Physicians & Surgeons.

1989

Co-founded Regeneron Pharmaceuticals

Joined Regeneron as Founding Scientist and Chief Scientific Officer.

2004

Elected to National Academy of Sciences

Recognized for his contributions to science.

2016

Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year

Received the award in the life sciences category.

2019

Alexander Hamilton Award

Received the highest honor from Columbia University.

2020

Recognized as One of the World's 25 Greatest Leaders

Recognized by Fortune magazine.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Yancopoulos Family Science Fellowship

$1.35M

Established for Columbia College students to support scientific research.

Healthcare

Good Days Retinal Fund Matching Program

$200M

Matching initiative led with Leonard Schleifer for the Good Days Retinal Fund, enhancing patient access.

Education

Regeneron Science Talent Search Sponsorship

$100M+

Supports the oldest high school science competition.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"“I think we do discovery differently and better. And I think part of it is we've really learned how to brainstorm and think inventively in a group.”"

"“What distinguishes us as a species is the fact we can learn about ourselves and we can use science, together with the other thing that makes us human, our soul and spirit, to try to positively impact the human condition, and there is nothing better for society to be investing in than human knowledge and science.”"

""We need to have a beginner's mind whenever we meet others, regardless of race, sex, color, or beliefs.""

Leadership Principles

Focus on Science

Emphasizes the importance of strong science and innovative technology to accelerate the development of new medicines.

Teamwork and Collaboration

Fosters an environment where teams can brainstorm and think inventively together.

Commitment to STEM Education

Actively supports science, technology, engineering, and math education.

Controversies & Challenges

2020

Controversy related to COVID-19

Controversies over comments and behaviors related to privilege and access to COVID-19 treatments.