by Mrudula Kulkarni
2 minutes
BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics Strengthens Leadership With New EVP & COO
Dr. Hartounian joins BrainStorm as EVP & COO, bringing 32 years of biotech and gene therapy expertise.
BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics Inc., a company specializing in adult stem cell treatments for neurodegenerative disorders, has announced the appointment of Hartoun Hartounian, Ph.D., as the new Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, starting on June 18, 2024. Dr. Hartounian has an impressive career spanning more than 32 years in the biopharmaceutical sector, particularly in cell and gene therapy.
Throughout his career, he has made significant strides, notably establishing and heading BioCentriq, a cell and gene therapy CDMO, which was acquired for $73 million in 2022. In addition, he founded and scaled four other biotechnology firms. His experience spans achieving ambitious targets within major pharmaceutical companies, contract development and manufacturing organizations, as well as emerging biotech startups.
Hartounian has been associated with the New Jersey Institute of Technology's Department of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences as a faculty member since 2020, and served as an adjunct professor in Columbia University's Department of Chemical Engineering from 2015 to 2022.
He earned a Ph.D. in chemical engineering with a biochemistry minor from the University of Delaware, an M.S. in chemical engineering from the University of California, and a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Arya-Mehr University.
In his new position, Hartounian will manage all operational aspects of BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics, including CMC and commercialization. The company believes his expertise will improve operational efficiency and his strategic vision will support the commercial readiness of its therapeutic platforms, including NurOwn for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Chaim Lebovits, CEO & President of Brainstorm Cell Therapeutics, said that "We are pleased to welcome Dr. Hartounian to our team. His broad experience and proven track record will be invaluable as we continue to advance NurOwn, our investigational treatment for ALS. Dr. Hartounian brings the relevant expertise at this important time for the company to help us smoothly navigate CMC and commercialization complexities and to streamline logistics."
Hartounian added, "I am eager to join BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics at this exciting juncture and envision a tremendous opportunity to leverage my expertise in advancing the company's innovative therapies.”
