Praxis Precision Medicines Appoints Renowned Epilepsy Leader Dr. Orrin Devinsky As Head Of Clinical Strategy

Praxis Precision Medicines has appointed Dr. Orrin Devinsky, a globally recognized neurologist and epilepsy expert, as Head of Clinical Strategy, a newly created leadership position within the company. In this role, Dr. Devinsky will help shape Praxis’ clinical and medical direction as it advances a growing late-stage CNS portfolio toward commercialization. He will report to Steven Petrou, Ph.D., President of Research and Development.

“Orrin Devinsky’s career has had a significant impact on the development of therapies for patients with severe neurological disease,” said Steven Petrou. “His decision to join Praxis reflects the strength of our scientific approach and long-term strategy. We are excited to welcome Orrin into this role, and his insight and perspective will be valuable as we continue to advance the next generation of CNS medicines to patients worldwide.”

Dr. Devinsky brings more than 40 years of experience in clinical neuroscience and is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in modern epilepsy research and care. A Professor of Neurology and longtime director of a major academic epilepsy program, he has been instrumental in establishing today’s standards of care for patients with severe and rare neurological disorders.

“Praxis represents a rare convergence of scientific rigor, translational ambition, and genuine commitment to patients,” said Dr. Devinsky. “I am joining with deep conviction in our science, leadership, and long-term vision. With the largest, most comprehensive, precision-based pipelines I have seen in my career, Praxis is uniquely positioned to deliver these promising and transformative epilepsy therapies. I am thrilled to work with Steve and the Praxis team at this inflection point and help guide programs that I believe can meaningfully change the lives of people living with devastating neurological disorders.”

He is best known for serving as principal investigator on the landmark trials that led to the first FDA approval of cannabidiol therapy for Dravet syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex, creating an entirely new class of epilepsy treatments. Across his career, Dr. Devinsky has authored more than 500 scientific publications and holds 16 patents covering epilepsy therapeutics, molecular biology, and drug-delivery technologies.

In addition to his scientific work, Dr. Devinsky has founded or co-founded several influential epilepsy organizations, including FACES, Epilepsy Therapy Project, and epilepsy.com, and established the North American SUDEP Registry. His contributions have been recognized with multiple top honors in the field, including the American Epilepsy Society’s J. Kiffin Penry Award and the 2025 Epilepsy Foundation Lifetime Accelerator Award.