Ray Therapeutics announced the appointment of Scott Braunstein, MD, as Chairman of its Board of Directors. The appointment comes as the company advances its lead clinical programs for inherited retinal diseases.

Ray Therapeutics’ lead candidate, RTx-015, is currently being evaluated in a phase 1 clinical trial for the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa (RP). In addition, the company is preparing to dose the first patient in a phase 1 clinical trial of RTx-021 for Stargardt disease, another inherited retinal disorder.

“We are excited and privileged to welcome Scott as Chairman of the Board,” said Paul Bresge, CEO and Co-Founder of Ray Therapeutics. “Scott’s unique background across clinical medicine, investment management, and executive leadership in biopharma will be instrumental as we advance RTx-015 and RTx-021 through the clinic. His proven track record of guiding companies through strategic growth and value creation will help us progress our mission of restoring vision for millions of people with blinding diseases.”

Dr. Braunstein brings more than 30 years of experience in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. Most recently, he served as Chairman and CEO of Marinus Pharmaceuticals, a commercial-stage company focused on rare forms of epilepsy, which was acquired by Immedica Pharma AB. Earlier in his career, he held the roles of Senior Vice President, Strategy and Chief Operating Officer at Pacira Pharmaceuticals, and spent 12 years at J.P. Morgan Asset Management as a Managing Director, healthcare analyst, and portfolio manager of the J.P. Morgan Global Healthcare Fund.

“Ray Therapeutics has a truly unique opportunity to usher in a new generation of bioengineered optogenetic medicines for those with blinding diseases,” said Dr. Braunstein. “I am impressed by the scientific rigor behind RayTx’s programs and the management team’s commitment to patient outcomes. I look forward to working with the executive leadership team and the Board on strategic and operational initiatives as we work to translate this promising technology into approved therapies for patients living with RP and other retinal diseases.”