Karus Therapeutics Appoints Penelope Ward as CMO

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Oxford, UK, 12 November 2013 – Karus Therapeutics, a leader in the development of innovative medicines for the treatment of inflammatory disease and cancer, today announced that Penelope Ward has joined the Company in the role of Chief Medical Officer. Her appointment strengthens the Company’s expansion which recently saw the formation of a Scientific Advisory Board, appointment of additional R&D personnel and a move to a world-class biotech hub near Oxford.

Dr Ward, who took up her new position in October, is an experienced pharmaceutical physician with previous senior management roles at Pharmacia and Upjohn (Pfizer), UCB and Roche, and was previously Chief Medical Officer of Novimmune SA. Her expertise in designing and implementing clinical development strategies will be important for the role at Karus where she will take responsibility for driving the Company’s HDAC6 and PI3K inhibitor programmes through early human efficacy trials in inflammation and cancer.

In addition, Dr Ward brings with her broad capabilities in commercial licensing negotiations, having previously supported deals for novel research targets to full development candidates. Along with a solid track record in obtaining regulatory approval, Dr Ward is well placed to assist the Company in future strategic decision making.

Commenting on Dr Ward’s appointment, Dr Simon Kerry, Chief Executive of Karus, said: “With the wealth of expertise that Penny brings to the position, we are confident she will be an asset to the team and look forward to working together to further develop and strengthen our proprietary programmes to treat inflammation and cancer.”

Dr Ward, Chief Medical Officer, added: “Karus is at a very exciting stage in its development, being well funded by supportive investors and with a great team. I look forward to working with the Board, management and scientists to progress the Company’s assets and realize the potential of its technology.”

College Hill

Sue Charles / Dr Christelle Kerouedan / Dr Rebecca Caygill

Tel: +44 (0) 20 7457 2020

Email: karus@collegehill.com

About Karus Therapeutics

Karus Therapeutics is a leader in the development of innovative medicines that have breakthrough potential in treating inflammatory disease and cancer. The Company’s scientific excellence is reflected in its proprietary PI3K and HDAC6 inhibitor programmes, from which innovative small molecule drugs with significant clinical and commercial potential have been developed. The UK based Company is privately-held with a strong financial track record and experienced investors, including SV Life Sciences, New Leaf Ventures, Novo A/S and IP Group. For further information please visit www.karustherapeutics.com

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