ADARx Pharmaceuticals Names Industry Veteran Laura Shawver, Ph.D., As New Board Chair

ADARx Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a late-stage clinical biotechnology company focused on developing next-generation RNA therapeutics, has announced the appointment of Laura Shawver, Ph.D., as the new Chair of its Board of Directors. The company, which is advancing a broad pipeline of RNA-based medicines for multiple disease areas, considers this appointment an important step in strengthening its leadership as it moves closer to key clinical milestones.

Zhen Li, President and Chief Executive Officer of ADARx, said the addition of Dr. Shawver brings exceptional expertise and insight at a crucial time for the company. According to Li, her proven track record in driving strategic growth and her success in bringing innovative therapies to market will play a critical role in expanding the impact of ADARx’s RNA therapeutics. Li emphasized that her leadership and patient-focused approach will support the company’s mission as it scales up its programs.

In response to her appointment, Dr. Shawver said she was honored to take on the role of Board Chair during such a pivotal period for ADARx. She noted that with several clinical programs approaching significant milestones and a strong pipeline of preclinical candidates, the company is well positioned to make meaningful progress in the RNA therapeutics field. She added that she looks forward to working closely with the Board and the management team to guide ADARx’s strategic growth and ensure the creation of long-term value.

Dr. Shawver brings extensive experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, having held numerous leadership positions throughout her career. She currently serves as the Chair of the Board of Directors at Adcendo ApS and as a member of the boards of ARS Pharmaceuticals and Dovetail Therapeutics. Most recently, she was President and Chief Executive Officer of Capstan Therapeutics, which was acquired by AbbVie. 

Her previous leadership roles include Chief Executive Officer of Silverback Therapeutics, acquired by ARS Pharmaceuticals, and President and Chief Executive Officer of Synthorx, which was acquired by Sanofi. Dr. Shawver earned both her Ph.D. in Pharmacology and her B.S. in Microbiology from the University of Iowa. This appointment further reinforces ADARx’s commitment to advancing cutting-edge RNA-based treatments and reflects its focus on building a strong leadership team to support its growth and innovation in biotechnology.