Ondek names Jenny Harry CEO

Drug delivery company Ondek has appointed former Tyrian Diagnostics (ASX:TDX) chief Dr Jenny Harry as its new CEO.

Dr Harry was appointed CEO of Tyrian in 2007 and had been deputy chief executive for two years prior.

She has a PhD in developmental biology from Macquarie University and is a graduate of the Harvard Business School General Manager Program and the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Ondek was founded in 2005 by Australian Nobel Laureate professor Barry Marshall. The company is a developing drug delivery platform based on Marshall’s research.

The platform, dubbed Helicobacter pylori Platform Technology (HPPT), uses a genetically modified helicobacter bacterium to deliver immune therapies, biopharmaceutical and other drugs and vaccines. Initial targets include childhood asthma and allergies.

Marshall co-discovered Helicobacter pylori along with fellow Australian John Warren. The pair was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2005 for their work related to the stomach bacterium.

“Dr Harry will play a key role in the global commercialisation of Ondek’s novel drug delivery technology,” Ondek chairman Peter Hammond said.

“She has already had a significant and positive impact on the business and her experience and skills will be invaluable as we progress through the clinic and negotiate commercial alliances.”