Karus Therapeutics Appoints CMO

Penelope Ward has joined Karus Therapeutics a leader in the development of innovative medicines for the treatment of inflammatory disease and cancer as Chief Medical Officer (CMO). Her appointment strengthens the Company’s expansion which recently saw the formation of a Scientific Advisory Board, appointment of additional R&D personnel and a move to a world-class biotech hub near Oxford.

Dr Ward, who recently took up her new position, is an experienced pharmaceutical physician with previous senior management roles at Pharmacia and Upjohn (Pfizer), UCB and Roche, and was previously CMO of Novimmune SA. Her expertise in designing and implementing clinical development strategies will be important for the role at Karus where she will take responsibility for driving the Company’s HDAC6 and PI3K inhibitor programmes through early human efficacy trials in inflammation and cancer.

In addition, Dr Ward brings with her broad capabilities in commercial licensing negotiations, having previously supported deals for novel research targets to full development candidates. Along with a solid track record in obtaining regulatory approval, Dr Ward is well placed to assist the company in future strategic decision making.

Dr Simon Kerry, Chief Executive of Karus, said: “With the wealth of expertise that Penny brings to the position, we are confident she will be an asset to the team and look forward to working together to further develop and strengthen our proprietary programmes to treat inflammation and cancer.”

Dr Ward, added: “Karus is at a very exciting stage in its development, being well funded by supportive investors and with a great team. I look forward to working with the Board, management and scientists to progress the Company’s assets and realise the potential of its technology."