WARMINSTER, PA — Arbutus Biopharma Corporation (Nasdaq: ABUS) announced the upcoming retirement of its co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Michael Sofia, effective December 31, 2024. Dr. Sofia, a recipient of the prestigious Lasker Award and a globally acknowledged figure in antiviral drug discovery and development, concludes a remarkable 38-year career that has left an indelible mark on the pharmaceutical industry.
During his tenure, Dr. Sofia played a pivotal role in the development of groundbreaking therapies for viral diseases, notably contributing to the cure for Hepatitis C (HCV) and laying foundational research for a potential cure for Hepatitis B (HBV). His work has been instrumental in advancing Arbutus Biopharma’s mission to develop a functional cure for HBV, a chronic condition affecting millions worldwide.
Michael J. McElhaugh, Interim President and CEO of Arbutus, expressed his gratitude for Dr. Sofia’s contributions, highlighting his vision and dedication to the company and the broader quest to combat viral diseases. “Mike’s contributions to Arbutus and the field of antiviral research have been invaluable. We are committed to continuing the clinical development of the HBV compounds developed under his leadership,” McElhaugh stated.
Dr. Sofia’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to discovering medicines that significantly improve patients’ lives. His work on HCV, which led to the development of a cure, is considered a milestone in pharmaceutical sciences. The transition to focusing on HBV represents a continuous effort to address unmet medical needs through innovative research.
The significance of Dr. Sofia’s retirement extends beyond the corridors of Arbutus Biopharma. It marks a moment of change for a company at the forefront of antiviral drug development, especially in the ongoing quest for an HBV cure. His departure prompts questions about the future direction of Arbutus’s research and development efforts and the potential impact on the HBV therapy landscape.
Given the complex nature of HBV research and the challenges associated with developing a functional cure, Dr. Sofia’s legacy of innovation and determination sets a high benchmark. His confidence in Arbutus’s capability to continue leading the charge in HBV research underscores the importance of sustained investment and focus on finding transformative treatments for viral diseases.
Dr. Sofia’s retirement is a reminder of the critical role that individual scientists play in advancing medical research. His contributions highlight the potential for scientific research to effect real-world change, offering hope to patients battling chronic conditions. The anticipation surrounding the continued clinical development of HBV compounds at Arbutus Biopharma speaks to the enduring impact of Dr. Sofia’s work and the collective effort to bring new, life-saving medicines to market.
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