Terremoto Biosciences, a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing targeted small-molecule therapeutics, has appointed James Christensen, Ph.D., as Chief Executive Officer and President. Dr. Christensen, who previously served as the company’s President and Head of Research and Development, succeeds Charles Baum, M.D., Ph.D., who will transition to Executive Chairman. Peter Thompson, M.D., co-founder and former Chairman, will remain on the Board of Directors.
Dr. Christensen brings over two decades of experience in drug discovery and development to the CEO role. Prior to joining Terremoto, he served as Chief Scientific Officer at Mirati Therapeutics, where he oversaw discovery, early clinical development, and manufacturing. He also previously held executive leadership roles at Pfizer Oncology, contributing to nonclinical research and translational science for targeted cancer therapies such as Sutent® and Xalkori®.
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The leadership transition coincides with significant operational milestones for the South San Francisco- and San Diego-based biotechnology firm. Terremoto recently completed a $108 million Series C financing round to advance its pipeline of targeted small-molecule candidates. Additionally, the company secured FDA Fast Track designation for TER-2013, an AKT1-selective small molecule inhibitor targeting breast cancer, and filed an Investigational New Drug (IND) application for TER-4480 in Q3 2026.
Dr. Christensen’s appointment reflects Terremoto’s strategic focus on moving its proprietary pipeline through clinical development while expanding its portfolio of targeted therapeutics. With established funding, regulatory progress, and an experienced leadership team, Terremoto is positioned to accelerate its clinical-stage programs aimed at serious diseases.