BASEL, Switzerland — Noema Pharma, a clinical-stage biotech company focusing on debilitating central nervous system (CNS) disorders, has announced the appointment of Volker Knappertz, M.D., as Executive Vice President of Research & Development. Dr. Knappertz brings over 25 years of experience in drug development, including significant contributions to the approval of novel drugs such as Epidiolex for rare forms of epilepsy.
Ilise Lombardo, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Noema Pharma, expressed enthusiasm about Dr. Knappertz's appointment, highlighting his proven track record in building and leading R&D organizations. "His experience and expertise across CNS development will be pivotal as Noema enters a transformational year with readouts of multiple Phase 2 studies across our pipeline," said Lombardo.
Dr. Knappertz shared his excitement about joining Noema, stating, "I am thrilled to join Noema and look forward to the continued clinical development across the company's multiple indications." These indications include seizures in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, pain in Trigeminal Neuralgia, Tourette syndrome, and vasomotor symptoms plus CNS-mediated symptoms of menopause.
Before joining Noema, Dr. Knappertz served in leadership roles at Aurinia Pharmaceuticals, GW Pharmaceuticals, Teva Pharmaceuticals, AstraZeneca, and Bayer, contributing to several drug approvals and major business development deals. He holds a doctorate and Medical Degree from Cologne University and is a US board-certified neurologist.
Noema Pharma is advancing a portfolio of transformative, first-in-disease therapeutics targeting neuroscience-based conditions with high unmet need. The company has four programs currently in active Phase 2 clinical trials, with readouts expected in 2025.
