Disa has spent 15 years working across biotechnology and pharmaceutical research and academia. She brings extensive experience in RNA biology, and the design and optimization of RNA therapeutics, combining experimental and computational approaches to support candidate selection and advancement.
“Disa brings a strong track record in oligonucleotide design and delivery and a highly relevant experience in RNA drug discovery,” said Ellen Donnelly, CEO of Neumirna. “Her appointment adds further strength to the scientific foundation we have built at Neumirna and will support the continued development of our RNA-based therapeutic programs.”
Most recently, Disa served as Head of RNA Therapeutics at Abzu, where she led a cross-functional team developing advanced oligonucleotide drug-design capabilities and AI-driven approaches for RNA therapeutic discovery and optimization.
Before joining Abzu, she held senior scientific positions at Roche Innovation Centre Copenhagen. Her work included the preclinical development and optimization of RNA drug candidates with a focus on safety, efficacy, off-target effects and cross-reactivity. She also led oligonucleotide design for preclinical programs targeting diseases of the central nervous system.
At Neumirna, Disa will join the leadership team, where she will be responsible for leading research strategy and progressing research activities across the company, as well as managing the Copenhagen-based team and site activities.
“My career has focused on understanding RNA biology and applying that knowledge to the design of new therapeutics,” said Disa.
“Few places have contributed as much to RNA innovation per capita as Denmark, with an impact that reaches well beyond its size. Neumirna is built on that foundation, and I am excited to be joining the team at a pivotal stage in the company's journey, as it moves closer to bringing its first therapy to patients.”
Disa holds a PhD in Molecular Biology from the University of Copenhagen and an MSc in Biotechnology Engineering from Uppsala University. She is also an inventor on multiple patents covering antisense and oligonucleotide therapeutics.