Italian biopharma business appoints new CMO

Dr Laurence Howard Skillern is to join Milan-based biopharma business BioXell based in Italy, as chief medical officer (CMO) in the New Year.

He will be responsible for leading BioXell's clinical development activities and brings with him experience in pharmaceutical medicine, clinical development, regulatory and medical affairs expertise.

BioXell is focused on the discovery and development of drugs that exploit novel mechanisms of action to treat important urological, inflammatory, and related disorders with significant unmet medical needs.

"Dr. Skillern brings with him a wealth of medical experience in a number of therapeutic fields, notably in urology and women's health," said BioXell ceo Francesco Sinigaglia. "His strong expertise in clinical development as well as filing and approval in the US and in Europe will add significant strength to our organisation at a time when we are dedicated to pursuing our discussions regarding Elocalcitol with regulatory authorities and preparing the first pivotal study with this compound."

"I believe that BioXell has all the necessary ingredients to become a fully integrated biotech company. Its balanced pipeline contains both late stage clinical products, almost ready to enter the first pivotal trial, but also exciting innovative compounds with the potential for further clinical development in areas of significant unmet medical need," said Skillern.

Skillern has previous experience working for Pfizer Global Research & Development, where he led the clinical development of a number of products in various phases of development ultimately leading to successful regulatory approvals in the US and EU, including products for Overactive Bladder.