Marcel van der Brug, Ph.D. is a seasoned neuroscientist and drug development leader, bringing extensive expertise in neurodegenerative diseases and therapeutic innovation to AcuraStem. With a robust background in neuroscience, genetics, and translational medicine, Dr. van der Brug has led scientific strategy and driven innovative solutions across multiple organizations, including Genentech. He has developed high-impact initiatives to accelerate treatments for complex neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

As Chief Scientific Officer at AcuraStem, he leads scientific strategy and R&D in combating neurodegenerative diseases using the iNeuroRx® platform. His responsibilities include overseeing the discovery and validation of new therapeutic targets, advancing antisense oligonucleotide therapies through to early development, and expanding the application of the iNeuroRx® platform to new disease indications and modalities. Dr. van der Brug brings decades of experience in optimizing patient-specific models that mimic the intricate aspects of neurodegenerative disorders, enabling the team to elucidate therapeutic mechanisms and develop corresponding clinical biomarkers.

Prior to joining AcuraStem, Dr. van der Brug co-founded Character Biosciences, directing the company's drug development, preclinical and clinical strategies with a focus on personalized therapies and parallel diagnostic development. He earned his Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Queensland, Australia. Following his doctorate, Dr. van der Brug completed postdoctoral work at the National Institute on Aging, focusing on molecular genetics and neurodegeneration, which laid the groundwork for his future contributions to biotechnology and therapeutic development.