DaCapo Brainscience, a biotechnology company focused on developing small-molecule therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, announced today the appointment of Leslie Williams as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the appointment of Mridul Mehta, PhD, as Chief Technology Officer (CTO), and the promotion of Warren Hirst, PhD, to Chief Scientific Officer (CSO). The leadership changes position the company to transition from early-stage discovery to clinical development.
Leslie Williams brings over 20 years of experience in the biotech industry, having previously held executive roles at several neuroscience-focused companies. As President and CEO, she will lead DaCapo Brainscience through its next phase, which includes advancing its lead programs toward clinical trials. The company's proprietary discovery platform uses an in vitro model of neurodegenerative disease that recapitulates human biology, enabling the identification of novel disease pathways and targeted treatments.
Mridul Mehta, PhD, joins as Chief Technology Officer, bringing expertise in computational biology and data analysis. He will oversee the technological aspects of the company's platform, integrating advanced data analytics to accelerate drug discovery. Warren Hirst, PhD, who has been with the company since its inception, is promoted to Chief Scientific Officer. He will guide the scientific strategy, focusing on the development of small-molecule therapies aimed at slowing or halting the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, with an initial emphasis on Parkinson's disease.
“We are thrilled to welcome Leslie and Mridul to our leadership team and to recognize Warren’s contributions with his promotion,” said the company in a statement. “Their combined expertise will be instrumental as we advance our pipeline and move toward clinical development.”
DaCapo Brainscience's platform combines advanced data analysis with human-based laboratory models to identify new disease pathways. By targeting these pathways, the company aims to develop treatments that address the underlying causes of neurodegeneration rather than just symptoms. The strengthened leadership team is expected to enhance the company's ability to achieve its goals.
For more information about DaCapo Brainscience and its leadership, visit the full announcement here.
