Replicate Bioscience Welcomes Dr. Kathy Fernando as New Chief Business Officer
Replicate Bioscience has recently announced the exciting appointment of Dr. Kathy Fernando as its new Chief Business Officer (CBO). This move is part of the company’s strategy to enhance its innovative self-replicating RNA (srRNA) technology aimed at addressing infectious diseases and immunological challenges. With a career spanning nearly two decades in the biopharma sector, Dr. Fernando brings a rich blend of operational acumen, strategic insight, and scientific knowledge to the role.
As CBO, Dr. Fernando will spearhead Replicate's corporate strategy and business development initiatives. Her extensive background encompasses significant positions at leading pharmaceutical firms, most notably Pfizer, where she held the title of Senior Vice President and Global Head of Pfizer Ignite, a venture focused on early-stage biotech collaborations. Here at Replicate, her primary responsibility will involve overseeing new product planning and accelerating the company’s pipeline development while ensuring the successful implementation of partnerships at various scales.
Nathaniel Wang, the CEO of Replicate Bioscience, expressed his enthusiasm about Dr. Fernando joining the leadership team. He stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Kathy to the Replicate leadership team during a critical stage of growth at the company. Kathy brings a rare combination of scientific depth, operational excellence, and strategic vision that spans the entire spectrum of drug discovery and development.” He further emphasized that Dr. Fernando's leadership experience would be essential as the company seeks to expand its reach and strengthen existing collaborations and strategically important partnerships.
Dr. Fernando shared her excitement regarding this new opportunity, mentioning, “I am thrilled to be returning to my scientific roots in mRNA and joining a purpose-driven team dedicated to unlocking the full potential of RNA vaccines and therapeutics.” She highlighted her belief in the transformative capabilities of Replicate's srRNA platform, which is expected to leapfrog existing mRNA technologies by enhancing bioactivity and immune response, making these therapies more accessible to patients on a global scale.
Her academic credentials reinforce her expertise, as Dr. Fernando completed her Ph.D. in Immunology at the University of Pennsylvania, conducting significant research on developing mRNA HIV vaccines under the guidance of Nobel laureate Drew Weissman. This robust academic foundation is complemented by her extensive professional journey, which includes a solid track record in managing research and clinical development projects.
Replicate Bioscience is making waves in the biotech realm with its novel approach to RNA therapeutics, exemplified by its clinical-stage srRNA rabies vaccine which has already showcased promising immune responses in Phase I trials. With funding from Apple Tree Partners, the company is poised to explore innovative avenues across various therapeutic areas beyond rabies, extending its reach into infectious disease, immunology, and immuno-oncology, among others.
As the role of RNA in medicine continues to evolve, the importance of strong leadership cannot be overstated. Dr. Fernando's expertise and vision align with the critical goals of Replicate Bioscience, as they strive to make pioneering RNA therapies accessible to a broader patient population. This strategic appointment indicates a thrilling chapter in the company’s journey toward revolutionizing RNA therapeutics.
For additional information about Replicate Bioscience and its innovative approaches to RNA therapeutics, visit
replicatebioscience.com.