BioNTech Co-Founders to Launch New mRNA Venture by 2026

BioNTech's co-founders Ugur Sahin and Oezlem Tuereci plan to leave the company by 2026 to establish a new venture focused on mRNA technology. While ensuring BioNTech's existing operations continue smoothly, the move signifies a return to early-stage drug development and exploration of next-generation therapies.

Germany's BioNTech, known for its significant role in the COVID-19 vaccine race, announced a leadership transition by 2026. Co-founders Ugur Sahin and Oezlem Tuereci, who spearheaded the development of the mRNA vaccine with Pfizer, will exit to pioneer a new venture.

The pair aims to advance early-stage mRNA drug development with separate resources and funding. BioNTech assures stakeholders that its current pipeline, including cancer therapies and the COVID-19 vaccine, remains unaffected.

Significant financial backing, partly from collaboration with Bristol Myers Squibb, positions the firm favorably despite recording a net loss last year. BioNTech will maintain a stake in the founders' new company, indicating a strategic shift towards innovation in mRNA technology.