Molecular Partners has been named by FierceBiotech as one of 2014’s Fierce 15 biotechnology companies, designating it as one of the most promising private biotechnology companies in the industry. In addition Molecular Partners AG announced the appointment of Steven H. Holtzman as an independent non-executive member of its board of directors.
“In an environment where so many biotechs are looking for a quick exit to please their investors, it’s refreshing to see a company working to lay down roots and stick around for the long haul,” says Damian Garde, editor of FierceBiotech. “And Molecular Partners is going about it practically, doubling down on a validated platform as it expands its pipeline.”
Molecular Partners is a clinical‐stage biopharmaceutical company developing DARPins, a new class of small protein therapies with the potential to significantly improve the management of serious diseases, including cancer and sight‐threatening disorders. DARPins are potent, specific and versatile therapies that are designed to function as a team to inhibit multiple disease‐specific targets.
“We are honored that FierceBiotech has recognized Molecular Partners as one of the top biopharmaceutical companies worldwide,” said Christian Zahnd, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of Molecular Partners. “This distinction is especially meaningful as we rapidly advance our robust pipeline of DARPin therapies, which has been validated through our partnerships with industry leaders. DARPins can allow us access to a field of drug discovery with significant potential for improving the health of patients, the idea that drives every decision we make.”
The Fierce 15 celebrates the spirit of being “fierce” – championing innovation and creativity, even in the face of intense competition. Every year, FierceBiotech evaluates hundreds of private companies from around the world for its annual Fierce 15 list, which is based on a variety of factors such as the strength of its technology, partnerships, venture backers and a competitive market position. A complete list of “Fierce 15” companies can be found online at www.fiercebiotech.com/fierce15.
Steven H. Holtzman new member of the board
“We are pleased to welcome Steven to the board of Molecular Partners,” said Jörn Aldag, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Molecular Partners. “He brings with him a wealth of experience in building and managing successful biotech companies at a time where Molecular Partners is significantly progressing its broad clinical and preclinical pipeline and important partnerships. He will prove invaluable to Molecular Partners in supporting many of our decisions as the company further matures.”
Mr. Holtzman brings considerable experience to the board of Molecular Partners. He is currently serving as Executive Vice President, Corporate Development on the Executive Committee of Biogen Idec. Prior to that, Steven Holtzman was a founder, initially Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Infinity Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Chief Business Officer at Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and a founder and member of the Board of Directors and Executive Vice President of DNX Corporation.
“I am delighted to join Molecular Partners, one of the most exciting biotech stories in Europe,” added Steven Holtzman. “DARPins represent a new powerful class of small protein therapies, and the stage is set to continue to build on the success laid out in a strong clinical and preclinical pipeline and several impressive alliances. I look forward to supporting Molecular Partners in these exciting times and to being part of its continued success.”
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