Basking Biosciences Names Dr. Julia Owens as CEO

Basking Biosciences, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing the first reversible thrombolytic therapy for acute ischemic stroke (AIS), has appointed Julia C. Owens, Ph.D., as Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Owens brings extensive leadership experience in biopharmaceutical company building and drug development, having served as CEO of Ananke Therapeutics and founder and CEO of Millendo Therapeutics. She has held board roles at both emerging and publicly traded companies and currently serves on the board of Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) and other organizations.

As CEO, Owens will focus on steering the company as it enters a new stage of growth. Richard Shea, who has served as Basking’s CEO since the company’s founding in 2019, will transition to president and chief operating officer, ensuring leadership continuity and a sustained focus on Basking’s track record of operational excellence as the company advances into later-stage clinical development.

“Basking’s innovative science, its unparalleled dedication to the stroke community, and the caliber of its existing leadership drove my interest in joining the team,” said Owens. “As I deepen my understanding of the company and its science, I’m energized to partner with the leadership team to build on encouraging Phase 2a results and realize the potential of BB-031 to reshape stroke care.”