Aura Biosciences Appoints Jeremy Bender To Board of Directors, Strengthens Board With Oncology Executive

Aura Biosciences has appointed Jeremy Bender, PhD, M.B.A., to its Board of Directors, adding an experienced biotechnology and oncology executive to its leadership team. The clinical-stage biotech company is focused on developing precision therapies for solid tumours that aim to preserve organ function while improving patient outcomes.

Dr Bender most recently served as Chief Executive Officer and President of Day One Biopharmaceuticals, where he led the company's transformation into a commercial-stage oncology business. Under his leadership, the company achieved regulatory approval and launched OJEMDA® for the treatment of pediatric low-grade glioma.

“I am thrilled to welcome Jeremy to our Board of Directors and excited to be working alongside him again,” said Natalie Holles, Chief Executive Officer of Aura Biosciences. “Jeremy is an accomplished biotechnology leader with deep experience advancing innovative therapies through late-stage development, commercialisation and significant value creation in rare oncology. As Aura advances toward potential regulatory approval of Bel-Sar and prepares for its next phase of growth, its operational and commercial expertise will further strengthen our Board. I look forward to his contributions as we continue executing our strategy to bring the first potential frontline, vision-preserving treatment to patients with early choroidal melanoma.”

He also played a key role in the company's approximately $2.5 billion acquisition by Servier in 2026, marking one of the notable oncology transactions of the year. Before Day One, Dr Bender held leadership positions in corporate development, business strategy, and operations at Gilead Sciences, Tizona Therapeutics, Sutro Biopharma, and Allos Therapeutics.

“I am honoured to join Aura's Board at this pivotal time for the company,” said Dr Bender. “Having worked closely with Natalie during her tenure on the Day One Board, I have seen firsthand her strategic vision, thoughtful leadership and unwavering commitment to patients. With enrollment complete in the Phase 3 CoMpass trial and Bel-Sar advancing toward a potential regulatory approval, Aura is entering an exciting new chapter. I look forward to working with Natalie, the Board and the management team to execute on the company's strategy, build on its strong foundation and create meaningful value for patients and shareholders.”

Dr Bender currently serves as an independent board member at Mereo BioPharma Group plc and previously served on the board of Fusion Pharmaceuticals. His academic credentials include degrees from Stanford University, the University of Colorado, and the MIT Sloan School of Management.