Ian F. Smith, M.D., is the Chief Executive Officer of Stoke Therapeutics Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company pioneering genetic medicines to treat severe neurological disorders. With over two decades of experience in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, Dr. Smith brings a proven track record of advancing innovative therapies from discovery through commercialization. He earned his medical degree from the University of Edinburgh and an MBA from INSEAD, blending clinical expertise with strategic business acumen. Prior to joining Stoke in September 2023, Dr. Smith served as Executive Vice President and Head of Neurology & Respiratory Diseases Research & Development at Biogen Inc., where he led a global R&D organization responsible for a robust pipeline of genetic medicines and small molecules targeting neurological conditions. Under his leadership, Biogen advanced key assets like Qalsody (tofersen), the first approved therapy for SOD1-mutated ALS, and other programs in Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, and spinal muscular atrophy. Previously, he held senior R&D roles at Shire (now Takeda), focusing on rare diseases, and at Pfizer, where he contributed to oncology, primary care, and rare disease franchises across multiple therapeutic areas. As CEO of Stoke Therapeutics, Dr. Smith oversees the company's mission to develop antisense oligonucleotides that modulate RNA splicing to address the underlying causes of severe genetic epilepsies, such as Dravet and SCN8A-DEE syndromes. His strategic vision has propelled clinical progress for lead candidate STK-001, with ongoing Phase 3 trials demonstrating potential to transform patient outcomes by reducing seizures and improving quality of life. Dr. Smith's leadership positions Stoke at the forefront of RNA-targeted therapies for the brain.