Averna Therapeutics names Thomas Barnes as CEO

28 January 2025

Boston, USA-based biotech Averna Therapeutics (formerly known as Exsilio Therapeutics), revealed yesterday that it has appointed Thomas Barnes as its chief executive (CEO) and director.

Dr Barnes brings more than 25 years of biotech industry leadership experience, with a proven track record of advancing innovative therapies. He replaces Dr Tal Zaks, who served as interim CEO and will continue as the executive chairman of Averna’s board.

“Tom has an extraordinary talent for transforming ground-breaking science into scalable biotechnology companies focused on developing entirely new ways of treating disease,” said Dr Zaks. “His ability to lead the translation of scientific innovation into real-world medicines is unparalleled. We are excited to have Tom at the helm as we develop our RNA/LNP-based genomic medicines.”

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