W. Michael Flanagan, Ph.D., currently serves as the Chief Scientific and Technical Officer at Avidity Biosciences, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative RNA therapeutics. Dr. Flanagan brings a wealth of experience in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, with a strong background in oligonucleotide therapeutics and drug development. Prior to joining Avidity, he held key leadership positions at leading companies such as Ionis Pharmaceuticals and Eli Lilly and Company, where he contributed significantly to the advancement of novel therapeutic approaches. At Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Dr. Flanagan played a pivotal role in the development of several groundbreaking oligonucleotide therapies, leveraging his expertise in molecular biology and drug discovery. His work at Ionis helped pave the way for the company's success in bringing new treatments to market, particularly in the field of genetic medicines. Before his tenure at Ionis, Dr. Flanagan's career at Eli Lilly and Company saw him leading research teams focused on developing small molecule drugs for various diseases, showcasing his versatility and deep understanding of drug development across different modalities. In his current role at Avidity Biosciences, Dr. Flanagan is instrumental in driving the company's scientific strategy and overseeing the development of its Antibody Oligonucleotide Conjugates (AOCs) platform. His leadership is crucial in advancing Avidity's pipeline of potential treatments for rare diseases, neuromuscular disorders, and other serious conditions. Under his guidance, the company aims to harness the power of RNA to create transformative therapies that address unmet medical needs. Dr. Flanagan's contributions to the field of biotechnology and his dedication to scientific innovation continue to make a significant impact on the industry.