Absci Corp. Strengthens Clinical Leadership with New CMO Appointment

Absci Corporation (Nasdaq: ABSI), a pioneering clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company known for leveraging generative AI in the creation of innovative therapeutics, has announced a significant leadership change that is poised to enhance its clinical development strategy. On March 3, 2026, the company revealed the appointment of Ransi Somaratne, M.D., FACC, MBA, as its new Chief Medical Officer (CMO). Dr. Somaratne brings a wealth of experience and expertise in clinical development, making him a valuable addition to Absci's leadership team.

Dr. Somaratne joins Absci from Vertex Pharmaceuticals, where he served as Senior Vice President of Clinical Development. His impressive career includes notable positions at BioMarin Pharmaceutical and Amgen, where he played pivotal roles in the advancement of groundbreaking therapies. His clinical background as a cardiologist and internist complements his executive experience, equipping him with a unique perspective on the complexities of drug development.

Sean McClain, the Founder and CEO of Absci, expressed enthusiasm about Dr. Somaratne's appointment, stating, "Ransi is a proven clinical leader, and we’re excited to have him join Absci at a moment when our AI-designed pipeline is rapidly advancing through clinical development." His leadership is expected to enhance Absci's capabilities as it works towards bringing multiple programs, including the flagship ABS-201 program, closer to clinical proof of concept.

Dr. Somaratne's career has been marked by significant contributions to pioneering clinical development programs, including the Hemophilia A gene therapy RoctavianⓇ and the development of the PCSK9 inhibitor RepathaⓇ. He has also been involved in the creation of JournavxⓇ, the first NaV1.8 inhibitor approved for moderate to severe acute pain. His extensive experience will be instrumental as Absci seeks to navigate the complexities of developing therapeutics designed through AI-driven methodologies.

In his own words, Dr. Somaratne expressed excitement about his new role: "I am excited to join Absci at such a pivotal moment, when the AI Drug Creation Engine has already yielded multiple clinical-stage programs. I look forward to advancing the development of a truly innovative pipeline of therapeutics with the potential to transform the lives of patients with significant unmet clinical need."

Alongside the announcement of Dr. Somaratne's appointment, Absci also disclosed the retirement of Professor Andreas Busch, Ph.D., who has served as Chief Innovation Officer. Professor Busch has been a key figure in building Absci’s AI-designed therapeutics pipeline, particularly in the discovery and development of ABS-201. He will transition from his executive duties on March 31, 2026, to co-chair Absci’s Scientific Advisory Board, continuing to provide strategic guidance to the company.

Sean McClain acknowledged Professor Busch's contributions, stating, "We are deeply grateful to Andreas for his immense contributions and leadership during a foundational period for Absci. His vision was the catalyst for our ABS-201 program. He leaves behind a legacy of innovation that will continue to guide our mission as we advance these potentially life-changing therapies through the clinic."

Absci is at the forefront of drug discovery, employing generative design to create biologics that can transform patient care. Its Integrated Drug Creation™ platform combines state-of-the-art AI models with a synthetic biology data engine, facilitating the rapid design of therapeutics aimed at challenging targets. Absci’s innovative approach, characterized by a continuous feedback loop between AI algorithms and laboratory validation, enhances the precision and speed of therapeutic development.

The company's pipeline includes ABS-201, a groundbreaking treatment for androgenetic alopecia, as well as potential applications for endometriosis—a condition with significant unmet medical needs. With headquarters in Vancouver, WA, and additional facilities in New York City and Switzerland, Absci is well-positioned to continue its mission of advancing the future of drug discovery.

As Absci embarks on this new chapter under Dr. Somaratne's leadership, stakeholders will be keenly observing how this strategic appointment influences the company's trajectory and the development of its innovative pipeline.