Robert Junkins

• Immunology representative and subject matter expert on early project teams in the cardiac space • Contributed to IND enabling studies for AAV gene therapy candidates by providing assay support, authoring regulatory documents and advising study design. • Conceived and executed an exploratory biomarker program related to a Phase II gene therapy trial. • Led translational studies in healthy donor samples focused on biomarker discovery and understanding the impact of preexisting immunity to AAV on inflammatory response to clinical capsids. • Evaluated approved/late-stage immune modulators in animal models of AAV to identify approaches for mitigating immune related toxicities and facilitate redosing in the clinic. • Led a multidisciplinary project leveraging the collaborative cross mouse model to elucidate genetic determinants of AAV efficacy and immunogenicity.

• Developed, implemented, and co-led two small molecule drug discovery programs culminating in a strategic collaboration and license agreement with Novo Nordisk. • Conceived and executed scientific strategy as a key member of the founding leadership team. • Evaluated preclinical models and developed biomarker strategies to establish efficacy of drug candidates for indications in the neurodegenerative, autoinflammatory and renal spaces. • Conducted fundraising activities to raise $11 million in non-dilutive and venture backed funding. • Designed and executed in vitro pharmacology cascades leveraging cellular and biochemical assays to progress programs from hit identification through candidate selection. • Founded and managed laboratory facilities. Built and managed an experienced R&D team. • Established and leveraged a multidisciplinary network of key opinion leaders, consultants and CROs to achieve strategic objectives.

• Led a multidisciplinary team of researchers to pursue programs in innate immune drug delivery, preclinical vaccine development, drug discovery and immuno-oncology. • Co-developed and patented a polymeric particle-based drug delivery platform for immuno-oncology and infectious disease applications. • Developed and implemented in vivo animal models, in vitro/ex vivo cell models and biochemical assays to support development of immune-modulating microparticles. • Demonstrated a track record of high impact publications across multiple disciplines. • Trained and mentored numerous graduate students and undergraduate students. • Awards included T32 Infectious Disease Training Program and AAI Travel Award