Syndax Pharmaceuticals, a clinical-stage epigenetics oncology company based in Waltham, Mass., has added Arthur M. Pappas to the ranks of its board of directors.

Pappas is the founder and managing partner of Pappas Ventures, a Research Triangle Park, N.C.-based venture capital firm that invests nationally in the life science industry. Pappas and his team of investment, biotechnology and medical experts manage over $350 million and oversee investments in more than 40 portfolio companies. 

Prior to founding Pappas Ventures in 1994, he held senior level leadership positions at several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Glaxo Holdings, Abbott International, Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals and Dow Chemical Company. In addition to Syndax, Mr. Pappas is currently a director of Afferent Pharmaceuticals, CardioDx, CeNeRx, Chimerex, CoLucid and TyRx. He was also involved in Plexxikon, which was sold to Daiichi Sankyo last year.