Dr. Michelle Morrow has been appointed as Chief Scientific Officer of Avacta Group plc, effective November 4, 2024. With nearly 20 years of experience in oncology therapeutics and antibody research, Dr. Morrow will play a crucial role in Avacta’s transition to a therapeutics-focused biotech company.
Her most recent position was Senior Vice President and Head of invoX Therapeutics Innovation at invoX Pharma.
Dr. Morrow’s career highlights include significant contributions to bispecific candidate development at F-star Therapeutics, establishing an immuno-oncology preclinical modelling group at Medimmune and AstraZeneca, and serving as Discovery Project Leader for Imfinzi® and volrustomig.
Avacta said in a statement that Dr. Morrow’s extensive experience in both biotech and pharmaceutical companies makes her a valuable addition to Avacta’s management team as they focus on developing innovative, targeted oncology drugs.
“We are thrilled to welcome Michelle to the team, she brings decades of experience in translating early science into innovative and effective medicines for patients,” said Christina Coughlin, MD, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of Avacta.
“Michelle’s scientific leadership is exemplified by an outstanding track record in advancing novel oncology candidates from target validation through preclinical research to Phase 2 clinical proof-of-concept. Michelle will be a significant asset to the Avacta team in driving our programs forward and we look forward to benefiting from her wealth of expertise.”