MPM Expands its Team with the Appointment of RNA Expert and Leading Biotech Executive Pete Smith, PhD

CAMBRIDGE, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–#RNA–MPM, a world-leading biotechnology investment firm with nearly three decades of experience creating and investing in early-stage therapeutics companies, today announced the recent appointment of leading biotech executive Pete Smith, PhD, to its team of MPM Entrepreneurs.

Pete brings a wealth of experience to MPM having spent more than thirty years in the pharmaceutical industry, including thirteen years at Millennium. Most recently, Pete was Chief Early Development Officer at Alnylam, focusing on RNAi-based medicines, and prior to that was SVP, head of R&D Nonclinical at Moderna. He brings extensive and proven experience in building and leading teams spanning discovery through development across multiple modalities.

“We’re excited to welcome Pete to the MPM family. Pete brings unparalleled expertise in RNA therapies, as well as experience overseeing development of some of the world’s most prolific drugs through his roles at Alnylam, Moderna and Millennium,” said Ansbert Gadicke, Managing Director, MPM, and Managing Partner, BioImpact Capital, an MPM affiliate manager. “Pete joins us at a time where we believe his RNA expertise will play a pivotal role in advancing our portfolio in the area of new modalities. We have no doubt that Pete will add tremendous value to our firm.”

At MPM, Pete will take a leading role in helping the team explore new opportunities, particularly in those in areas of new modalities, including RNA therapies. This will include identifying and assessing new technologies, as well as helping to advance MPM’s company formation efforts and shepherding them through drug development.

“I’m excited to join MPM’s brilliant team of entrepreneurs,” said Dr. Smith. “I’ve long been impressed with the level of innovation coming out of MPM largely driven by its internal research team alongside deep academic relationships. I look forward to working with them to advance their work in areas of truly novel science.”

Pete Smith, PhD

Prior to joining MPM, Pete was Chief Early Development Officer at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals focusing on RNAi-based medicines in four therapeutic areas including genetic medicines, cardio-metabolic diseases, infectious diseases, and central nervous system and ocular diseases. Prior to Alnylam, Pete was SVP and Head of R&D Non-Clinical at Moderna and served as Co-Head of R&D at Millennium where he worked for 13 years. He has extensive experience in drug discovery and development across multiple therapeutic areas including oncology, inflammation, infectious disease amongst others and technologies including new modalities such as mRNA and siRNA. During his career, Pete has overseen the development of multiple therapeutics, including Celebrex®, Inspra®, Velcade®, Entyvio®, Onpattro®, Givlarri®, Oxlumo® and Vutrisiran. Pete began his career with 17 years in industry at SmithKline, Merck, Searle/Monsanto and Pharmacia in roles of increasing responsibility.

About MPM

MPM Capital is a world-leading biotechnology investment firm with nearly three decades of experience creating and investing in companies that seek to translate scientific innovations into cures for major diseases. With its world-class team with deep experience in scientific research, clinical development, and company-building, MPM strives to power novel medical breakthroughs that transform patients’ lives.

Contacts

Media Contact:

Kellie Neville, 617.425.9207

[email protected]