Kirsty Semple, who served as launch Chief Executive Officer since January 2020, will continue to play a pivotal role in SENISCA’s future success and has assumed the role of Chief Operating Officer.
The changes to the management structure reflect SENISCA’s continuing rapid evolution from an early-stage spinout company towards becoming a clinical stage biotech focused on the development of a portfolio of novel senotherapeutics with broad applicability for the treatment of age-related disease.
Since her appointment as COO in March 2023, Dr Cole has led strategic development, communications, and investor liaison activities at SENISCA.
With more than 20 years of experience at the forefront of early stage research and the venture capital funding of biotech firms, Sarah has held senior research positions in global pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies including Takeda and Transine Therapeutics, in addition to developing a successful career in life sciences investment at Takeda Ventures.
Sarah is a recognised leader in strategic development, pipeline creation and the critical evaluation of business development opportunities, with a focus on the rapid evolution of early phase biotech. Sarah holds a PhD in pharmacology from the University of Cambridge.
Dr Sarah Cole, CEO of SENISCA, commented: “As launch CEO, Kirsty's leadership has provided the solid foundations that enable SENISCA to capitalise on the world-leading research of the Harries lab to develop novel senotherapeutics that target the causes and not simply the consequences of age-related disease."
"This is a hugely exciting time for the company as we further develop and apply our unique platform technology to establish our presence as a leading developer of oligonucleotide senotherapeutics."
"I am delighted the Board has asked me to lead SENISCA. I look forward to drawing on my experience within the life sciences sector and working alongside Kirsty and the outstanding team, to guide SENISCA through the next stage in its evolution and ensure the company achieves its full potential.”
