Location: Netherlands preferred, Europe-based with regular travel to Nijmegen
Commitment: ~80% (approximately)
Compensation: Primarily equity-based, modest base salary until fundraising
Seniority: Founder/ leadership
XtRNA Bio is a pioneering biotechnology company redefining how we treat rare genetic diseases through transfer RNA (tRNA) therapeutics. Originating from groundbreaking research at Radboud University and founded in collaboration with NLC Health Ventures, XtRNA Bio is translating cutting-edge RNA biology into a new class of medicines that repair disease at its molecular root.
The lead program targets Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2D (CMT2D), a severe neuromuscular disorder caused by mutations in the GARS1 gene. These mutations interfere with how motor neurons use tRNAs to make essential proteins, leading to progressive nerve damage. XtRNA Bio's AAV-mediated tRNA therapy restores normal protein synthesis, directly addressing the underlying cause of disease. Preclinical studies have demonstrated strong proof of concept, showing potential to halt or even reverse neurodegeneration.
While CMT2D is the initial focus, the tRNA platform has broad potential. Through two complementary approaches, elevating disease-relevant tRNAs and engineering suppressor tRNAs for nonsense mutations, it can target a wide range of genetic diseases caused by translational errors. This dual-modality approach places us among a select few companies globally advancing tRNA as a therapeutic modality.
Supported by non-dilutive funding from the CMT Research Foundation and collaborations with world-leading scientists in the Netherlands and Germany, XtRNA Bio is now advancing toward IND-enabling studies. With strong science, early validation, and a mission-driven culture, XtRNA is building a biotech platform poised to transform RNA medicine, and bring new hope to patients with currently untreatable genetic diseases.
The CEO of XtRNA Bio will lead the company's mission to transform advanced RNA science into therapies for rare genetic diseases. You will guide the venture from research to clinical development, shape its strategy, and drive the fundraising needed to achieve key milestones.
This role calls for a leader who can unite scientific vision with business execution. You will inspire a high-performing team, build strategic partnerships, attract investors, and position XtRNA Bio as a pioneering force in RNA medicine.
As CEO of XtRNA Bio, you will provide strategic and operational leadership to advance our pioneering tRNA therapeutic platform from research toward clinical development.
Key responsibilities include:
Lead the company's overall strategy, growth, and fundraising, securing seed and Series A investment
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Drive the scientific and clinical roadmap in collaboration with the CSO toward IND readiness for the CMT2D program while expanding the broader tRNA platform
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Build and inspire a multidisciplinary team that combines scientific excellence with entrepreneurial focus
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Establish strong partnerships with investors, academic collaborators, pharmaceutical partners, and patient foundations
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- Represent XtRNA Bio externally, communicating our vision, progress, and potential to the biotech and investment communities
This role calls for a leader who can unite scientific insight, strategic execution, and purpose-driven leadership to position XtRNA Bio at the forefront of RNA-based medicine.
To succeed as CEO of XtRNA Bio, you will bring a rare combination of scientific understanding, strategic leadership, and entrepreneurial drive.
Qualifications
Advanced degree (PhD or MD) in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Genetics, or a related field; business training (MBA or equivalent) is an advantage
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Proven experience in leading or scaling biotech or pharmaceutical ventures (ideally within RNA therapeutics, gene therapy, or rare disease)
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Demonstrated success in fundraising, including venture capital and strategic partnerships
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Proven track record in strategic transactions, including co-development partnerships, M&A, or successful exits with biotech or pharmaceutical companies.
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- Track record of translating early-stage scientific innovation into clinical development and tangible company value
Strong scientific understanding of delivery technologies such as AAV capsids or related gene therapies and RNA biology and genetic disease mechanisms
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- Familiarity with regulatory pathways, translational medicine, and early clinical development for rare diseases
- Entrepreneurial, hands-on, and comfortable operating in a dynamic, high-growth environment
If you are driven by the opportunity to transform pioneering RNA science into therapies that change lives, we invite you to shape the future of XtRNA Bio with us.
NLC Health Ventures is a leading healthtech and biotech innovation platform based in Amsterdam, combining venture building and fund management across Europe and North America. With 40-45 employees, NLC manages four captive funds investing in ventures from pre-seed to Series B-C, and is fundraising for a fifth fund. The funds have a diverse LP base and are invested in over 70 companies. NLC values a collaborative, open, and impact-driven culture, where team members' ideas and contributions truly matter.
