AVI BioPharma appoints new CFO

Mr Boyle is expected to begin his employment with the company on August 18, 2008, at which time, Mark Webber, the company’s current CFO, will assume a new position within AVI as general manager of finance and administration.

Mr Boyle brings extensive operational and international financial experience to AVI. He was previously vice president of finance and CFO of Xoma.

Leslie Hudson, AVI’s CEO, said: “We are excited to have attracted a candidate of David’s caliber to join our senior management team as we continue AVI’s transition from an antisense pioneer into a dynamic RNA-based drug discovery and development company. Beyond his extensive background in finance, David brings to AVI expertise in several operational areas, including experience in the management of significant government contracts.”

Alan Timmins, the company’s current president and COO, will transition out of the company as the new finance and administration team assumes its role. Responsibilities related to the position of president will be assumed by the company’s CEO.

Management of AVI’s ongoing and future government contracts will be shared by AVI’s new CFO and the company’s recently appointed senior vice president of strategic alliances, while Mr Timmins’ other operational responsibilities will be shared by AVI’s CFO and the general manager of finance and administration.