Synthorx Inc. has appointed Laura Shawver, Ph.D., as president, chief executive officer, and director. Dr. Shawver comes with many years of experience as an entrepreneur and drug developer, and has been involved with a number of clinical development programs including two FDA-approved therapies.

“Laura is an accomplished biotech leader, scientist, and drug developer, and we welcome the experience and enthusiasm that she brings to the Synthorx technology and team,” said Jay Lichter, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of COI Pharmaceuticals and managing director of Avalon Ventures. 

Prior to joining Synthorx, Shawver was chief executive officer and director of Cleave Biosciences, entrepreneur-in-residence for 5AM Ventures, chief executive officer and director of Phenomix Corporation, and president of SUGEN Inc.