Sernova names Pericles Calias as CDO and head of R&D

Sernova Biotherapeutics (TSX: SVA), a regenerative medicine company based in Canada and the USA, has announced the appointment of Pericles (Perry) Calias as chief development officer (CDO) and head of R&D.

Dr Calias brings over two decades of global operational experience in drug product development from discovery to approval. Prior to joining Sernova, he held leadership roles at prominent life sciences companies, including Revolo Biotherapeutics, Cerecor, Sucampo Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq: SCMP), and Shire HGT. Throughout his career, Dr Calias has been instrumental in securing regulatory approvals, leading research and development efforts, filing many patent applications that were subsequently issued, spearheading clinical operations and advancing innovative therapies in rare diseases, autoimmune disorders, central nervous system (CNS) disorders and drug-device combinations.

“I have worked with Perry in the past and he brings a wealth of cross functional experience to the Sernova leadership team,” said Jonathan Rigby, president and chief executive of Sernova Biotherapeutics. “His deep expertise in leading all aspects of drug product and cell line development is invaluable to Sernova and will add momentum to advancing our Cell Pouch Bio-hybrid Organ as a much-needed functional cure for T1D in collaboration with Evotec,” he added.