Translate Bio, a biotechnology company focused on pioneering the translation of RNA science into therapeutics promoting healthy gene expression in people living with debilitating genetic diseases, announced the appointment of Ann Barbier, M.D., Ph.D., as chief medical officer, effective immediately. Dr. Barbier brings nearly 20 years of drug discovery and development experience to Translate Bio, and will be responsible for leading all clinical research and development, medical affairs and related functions at Translate Bio.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Barbier to Translate Bio,” said Ronald Renaud, chief executive officer, Translate Bio. “She is a proven leader with a track record of advancing clinical research through all phases of development. Additionally, Dr. Barbier’s rare disease expertise and extensive experience engaging regulatory agencies make her an invaluable asset as we look ahead to initiating our first clinical study in cystic fibrosis in early 2018.”

“With near-term clinical programs in cystic fibrosis and OTC deficiency, Translate Bio is approaching a critical and exciting time,” said Dr. Barbier. “Our platform has the potential to be transformative for patients, and I am incredibly excited about the opportunity to join an experienced management team dedicated to finding innovative treatments in areas of high unmet need.”

Prior to joining Translate Bio, Dr. Barbier was vice president of clinical development, rare genetic diseases, at Agios Pharmaceuticals, where she led the development program of a small molecule in rare benign hematological diseases. Previously, Dr. Barbier spent seven years at Shire, most recently as global clinical development lead and senior medical director, where she worked on a variety of rare genetic diseases including lysosomal storage diseases and hereditary angioedema. Her prior experience includes positions at Envivo, Johnson & Johnson and Aventis. During her career, Dr. Barbier has made significant contributions to several approved products such as Elaprase (Hunter syndrome), Aubagio (multiple sclerosis) and Firazyr (hereditary angioedema) and has led several investigational new drug applications for new chemical entities. Additionally, she has authored more than 50 peer-reviewed scientific articles, book chapters and invited reviews. Dr. Barbier received her M.D. and Ph.D. in pharmacology from the University of Gent, Belgium, and a Master of Science from the Free University of Brussels, Belgium. She pursued a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Tennessee in Memphis.