GSK hires top Pfizer vaccine scientist Phil Dormitzer

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GSK hires top Pfizer vaccine scientist Phil Dormitzer

On November 30, Reuters - GSK has hired one of the scientists behind Pfizer's mRNA COVID 19 shot, Phil Dormitzer, as global head of R&D for vaccines, and he will join British drugmaker GSK from December 30, GSK said on Tuesday.

By poaching one of Pfizer's top vaccine scientists who played a pivotal role in developing its shot with BioNTech GSK, the company is strengthening its ranks after lagging in initial efforts to develop a coronavirus vaccine.

The importance of vaccines has never been clearer, and the speed of technological innovation has rarely been greater. Phil's scientific expertise and significant experience will be key to ensuring we remain a leader in this field, said Hal Barron, GSK chief scientific officer and R&D president.

The appointment of Dormitzer is a coup for Chief Executive Emma Walmsley, who defends GSK against activist shareholders. She has faced questions about her leadership and the scientific expertise at GSK as the company prepares to separate its consumer health business.

GSK has so far focused on producing adjuvant technology to boost the immune response of other vaccines, and has collaborated with companies such as Vir and CureVac to develop treatments and improve mRNA vaccines.

Pfizer confirmed that Dormitzer was leaving the company.

Phil is grateful for his deep contribution to Pfizer's scientific efforts and his unwavering commitment to global health, the company said in a statement.