Valera, one of Moderna Therapeutics’ venture companies, has appointed Dr Michael Watson as its new president.
Dr Watson brings twenty years of vaccines expertise to the role and has broad experience in the development and licensing of vaccines for conditions such as smallpox, encephalitis and influenza.
Stéphane Bancel, chief executive officer of Moderna, said: “We are thrilled to have Mike assume the helm of Valera, particularly at this critical inflection point for the company, as we continue to progress our clinical stage infectious disease pipeline.”
He joins the infectious diseases specialty firm from Sanofi Pasteur, where he most recently served as its global head of vaccination policy and advocacy and has also held the position of head of clinical and epidemiology in France.
Prior to this, Dr Watson has been head of research and development at Acambis and Aventis Pasteur MSD’s medical director for the UK.
He is currently a member of the Board of Vaccines Europe and The Foundation for Innovative New Vaccines.
Dr Watson said: “The potential for mRNA therapeutics to meaningfully address some of the world’s most pressing infectious disease concerns is truly exciting.
“Moderna’s technology, coupled with its goal to deliver transformative medicines to millions of patients, makes this an extraordinary opportunity.
“I am eager and proud to join Valera and work with this outstanding team and Moderna’s esteemed infectious disease-focused partners.”