CEO (Gene Therapy) - Remote from Europe

Chief Executive Officer (Gene Therapy) – Remote (Europe)

NLC Health Ventures is inviting applications for the CEO position to lead XtRNA Bio , a pioneering biotechnology company focused on treating rare genetic diseases through tRNA therapeutics.

Location: Remote
Commitment: ~80% (approximately)
Compensation: Primarily equity‑based with a modest base salary until fundraising
Start Date: ASAP preferred, Q1 2026 the latest
Seniority: Founder/leadership

About the Venture (XtRNA Bio)

XtRNA Bio is translating cutting‑edge RNA biology into a new class of medicines that repair disease at its molecular root. The company originated from research at Radboud University and was founded in collaboration with NLC Health Ventures . Their lead program targets Charcot‑Marie‑Tooth disease type 2D (CMT2D) , treating it through AAV‑mediated tRNA therapy. Pre‑clinical studies show strong proof of concept and potential to halt or reverse neurodegeneration. The platform also has broader potential for other translational‑error–driven diseases.

Purpose of the Role

The CEO will lead the company’s mission to transform advanced RNA science into therapies, guiding the venture from research to clinical development, shaping strategy, and driving fundraising.

Responsibilities

• Lead overall strategy, growth, and fundraising, securing seed and Series A investment.
• Drive the scientific and clinical roadmap with the CSO toward IND readiness for the CMT2D program while expanding the broader tRNA platform.
• Build and inspire a multidisciplinary team that combines scientific excellence with entrepreneurial focus.
• Establish strong partnerships with investors, academic collaborators, pharmaceutical partners, and patient foundations.
• Represent XtRNA Bio externally, communicating vision, progress, and potential to the biotech and investment communities.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (PhD or MD) in life sciences, biotechnology, genetics, or related field; business training (MBA or equivalent) is an advantage.
• Proven experience leading or scaling biotech/pharmaceutical ventures, ideally within RNA therapeutics or gene therapy.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising with venture capital and strategic partners.
• Track record of successful strategic transactions (co‑development, M&A, or exits).
• Evidence of translating early‑stage scientific innovation into clinical development and company value.
• Strong understanding of delivery technologies such as AAV capsids and RNA biology, including genetic disease mechanisms.
• Familiarity with regulatory pathways, translational medicine, and early clinical development for rare diseases.
• Entrepreneurial, hands‑on, comfortable operating in a dynamic, high‑growth environment.

About NLC Health Ventures

Based in Amsterdam, NLC Health Ventures is a leading health‑tech and biotech innovation platform that combines venture building with fund management across Europe and North America. With 40‑45 employees it manages four captive funds investing from pre‑seed to Series B‑C and is currently fundraising for a fifth fund.