In this newly created position, Dr Wainwright has responsibility for the development of Vivaldi’s live attenuated vaccine candidates for seasonal and pandemic influenza, from preclinical evaluation through Phase I/II clinical trials. His responsibilities include development of manufacturing processes and quality control procedures, and manufacture of clinical trial material in compliance with global quality standards.
Separately, Vivaldi also announced the appointments of Bin Lu as director of virology and Rustum Boyce as director of small molecule drug discovery. Dr Lu is responsible for leading R&D activities for Vivaldi’s live attenuated influenza vaccine programs, including further studies to evaluate the vaccine candidates in animal models and establish preclinical safety, in support of Vivaldi’s planned investigational new drug application.
Dr Boyce joined Vivaldi from MerLion Pharmaceuticals, where he was director of medicinal chemistry. At Vivaldi, Dr Boyce is responsible for the company’s program to identify and optimize novel small molecules that target influenza virus nonstructural protein 1 as potential broad-spectrum antiviral drugs.
David Liebowitz, chief scientific officer of Vivaldi, said: “Bill brings to Vivaldi tremendous experience and a commitment to excellence in development and manufacturing of clinical-stage and commercial vaccine products, including live viral vaccines for influenza, rotavirus and rabies. His 30-year career in the pharmaceutical industry includes successful leadership of all facets of biological products development and manufacturing, including technology transfer, process development, and international regulatory compliance and approval.”