Science lab women

VIROFEND THERAPEUTICS TEAM

We are an international team working together to revolutionize cancer therapy. Combining expertise in virology, oncology, immunology, and business strategy to advance innovative approaches to cancer treatment.

 

CORE TEAM

Sara Cuadrado Castaño
Sara Cuadrado Castaño
Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) – ViroFend Therapeutics

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PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Salamanca, with over 15 years of experience in oncolytic virotherapy research, she currently leads the scientific direction of ViroFend Therapeutics as Chief Scientific Officer (CSO). In parallel, she serves as an Assistant Professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, working within the Department of Microbiology, the Precision Immunology Institute, and the Icahn Genomics Institute. From these institutions, she has spearheaded pioneering projects in the rational design of oncolytic viruses (OVs), building highly specialized in vitro screening platforms and developing in vivo therapeutic strategies across multiple cancer models.

Throughout her career, she has contributed to high-impact scientific publications in fields such as immunology, structural virology, lipid nanoparticles, and the molecular mechanisms of cancer. Her work is distinguished by a strong focus on translating basic research into clinically actionable therapies with real therapeutic potential. In recognition of her scientific excellence, she was awarded the First National Prize in Biomedicine for Young Researchers by the Spanish Ministry of Science.

In recognition of her scientific excellence, she was awarded the First National Prize in Biomedicine for Young Researchers by the Spanish Ministry of Science.

Miguel Ángel Ávila Santiago
Miguel Ángel Ávila Santiago
General Director – ViroFend Therapeutics

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Engineer with executive training (MBA) and extensive experience in corporate leadership, strategic R&D management, and technology transfer in the biotech sector, he is currently the General Director and co-founder of ViroFend Therapeutics.

He has led over 50 national and international research projects across the pharmaceutical, agri-food, and technology sectors, including initiatives focused on scale-up, fundraising, and corporate expansion. He was also the CEO and co-founder of Neurofix Pharma, a company dedicated to the clinical development of therapies targeting the central nervous system, and has held leadership roles in technical direction, intellectual property, and institutional relations across a range of organizations.

Beyond his executive responsibilities, he teaches in master’s programs on innovation and digital transformation (USAL, IME Business School) and advises both public and private initiatives in entrepreneurship and biotechnology. His profile blends business vision with hands-on experience managing international research consortia (FP7, Horizon 2020), and reflects a deep commitment to the broader scientific and tech innovation ecosystem.

Ángel Canal
Ángel Canal
Operations and R&D Director – ViroFend Therapeutics

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Computational Biologist with expertise in Artificial Intelligence and Computational Biology. Brings over six years of experience leading biotechnology teams ranging from 18 to 120 professionals, with a proven track record in managing complex R&D environments and coordinating multidisciplinary projects. Has successfully prepared, presented, coordinated, and justified research and innovation projects totaling several million. Combines strategic management capabilities with deep technical expertise to drive innovation and organizational efficiency.

Currently serves as Director of Operations and R&D (Deputy General Director) at Virofend Therapeutics, overseeing the R&D and Project divisions, defining strategic priorities, and fostering collaboration across departments to enhance the company’s scientific impact and operational performance.

Jesús María Vicente Sánchez
Jesús María Vicente Sánchez
Business Development Director – ViroFend Therapeutics

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Economist and MBA with a solid track record in corporate finance, financial statement analysis, budgeting, forecasting and management control, as well as supervising teams and processes in complex business environments. He has developed his career in industrial, pharmaceutical and consulting companies, taking on financial management responsibilities and contributing to strategic decision-making.

As Business Development Director at ViroFend Therapeutics, he leads financial planning and strategic analysis, supporting the design of business models, the evaluation of investments and the definition of the company’s growth plans, to which he brings a strong analytical vision and a focus on long-term value creation.

Cristina Tetila Gallego
Cristina Tetilla Gallego
Head of Business and Strategic Development – ViroFend Therapeutics

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Holding a degree in Political Science from the University of Salamanca and an MBA, she brings a consolidated trajectory with over 10 years of experience in strategic management, business development, and client relations optimization. She possesses a solid background in Human Resources and holds key certifications, in addition to a high level of proficiency in both English and French.

She currently serves as Chief Negotiating and Strategic Development Officer at ViroFend Therapeutics, contributing to the company's operational and strategic structure. Previously, she was a Head Project Manager, successfully leading the management of complex projects, designing campaign strategies, and being instrumental in sales pipeline growth. Her experience includes managing business units across sales (SDR), key accounts, and operations. She combines the ability to lead teams with the strategic vision necessary to deliver value to every stakeholder.

Arancha Rodríguez Zambrano
Arancha Rodríguez Zambrano
Lead Project Manager – ViroFend Therapeutics

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Biologist with a PhD in Biomedicine and extensive experience in clinical research and coordination of clinical trials across various therapeutic areas. She brings solid expertise in monitoring, documentation validation and ICH-GCP compliance, along with strong skills in scientific communication and collaboration with healthcare and research teams. As Lead Project Manager at ViroFend Therapeutics, she oversees the planning, supervision and follow-up of clinical programs, ensuring rigorous execution aligned with the company’s scientific and regulatory objectives.

Her multidisciplinary background strengthens ViroFend’s transition into clinical development and supports the advancement of its innovative oncolytic therapies.

Pilar Cerveró García
Pilar Cerveró García
Clinical Project Manager – ViroFend Therapeutics

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Biochemist and Doctor of Neuroscience, with more than 8 years of experience in pre-clinical research and operations in the therapeutic area of Oncology. She has participated in the publication of articles in high-impact journals and in the development of a patent, combining scientific rigour with a clear focus on results. Throughout her career, she has promoted medical and scientific communication, generating specialised materials and giving presentations, as well as strengthening her work with healthcare professionals and multidisciplinary teams.

She has direct experience in project management and cross-functional coordination in pharmaceutical environments, aligning activities between different areas and simultaneously managing multiple clinical projects. Her profile is characterised by a solid scientific and technical foundation, organisational and prioritisation skills, and a practical approach focused on the efficient execution of clinical projects, with specific training in Good Clinical Practices (GCP/ICH).

She currently serves as a Clinical Project Manager at ViroFend, contributing to the company’s clinical development activities and to the translation of preclinical development results into patient-focused clinical applications.

Raquel Flores Hernández
Raquel Flores Hernández
Postdoctoral Researcher – ViroFend Therapeutics

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Biotechnologist and PhD in Neuroscience, with experience in preclinical research in the fields of neuroscience and oncology and a strong translational focus. She has developed her career in academic settings and international research centers, participating in competitive research projects and contributing to scientific publications in international journals, within pharmacological and experimental studies conducted with a rigorous and applied approach.

As a Postdoctoral Researcher at ViroFend Therapeutics, she is involved in the development and preclinical validation of novel therapeutic strategies, contributing her experimental and analytical expertise to the advancement of the company’s R&D programs.

Sofía Garro Villegas
Sofía Garro Villegas
Project Manager – ViroFend Therapeutics

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Pharmacist with an MBA in Biopharmaceutical Companies and specialized training in the management of international R&D projects. She brings solid experience in pharmaceutical operations, biotechnology project coordination and strategic planning, integrating technical knowledge with strong organizational and analytical capabilities, as well proven expertise in industrial development and scale—up processes.

As Project Manager at ViroFend Therapeutics, she supports the design, coordination and follow-up of R&D activities, ensuring efficient project execution and alignment with the company’s scientific and operational objectives. Her multidisciplinary background contributes to strengthening ViroFend’s development pathways and to boosting the progress of its production programs.

Laura García Brena
Laura García Brena
Quality Technician – ViroFend Therapeutics

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Biologist with over ten years of experience in quality control and laboratory environments, including microbiological and physicochemical analysis, raw material control and participation in audits and certifications such as IFS and Global GAP. She has developed her career in regulated settings, ensuring compliance, traceability and quality standards, while working closely with multidisciplinary teams.

At ViroFend Therapeutics, she joins as Quality Technician, taking part in regulatory and quality activities related to manufacturing and clinical development, supporting the implementation of robust quality systems and ensuring alignment with preclinical and clinical requirements for our project.

Giulia Ciaccio
Giulia Ciaccio
Bioinformatics Analyst – ViroFend Therapeutics

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Biologist with a Master’s in Molecular and Health Biology, with experience in virology, bioinformatics, and molecular techniques. Has developed research work at the University of Salamanca, contributing to projects focused on rare diseases and applying various analytical tools. Brings a versatile profile, adaptability in dynamic scientific environments, and fluency in multiple languages.

Currently works as a Bioinformatics Analyst at ViroFend Therapeutics, where she supports the design, technical implementation, and execution of R&D lines with strong translational potential.

Itzíar Rodríguez Rivas
Itzíar Rodríguez Rivas
Clinical Trial Assistant – ViroFend Therapeutics

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Biotechnologist with postgraduate training in Drug Evaluation and Development, oriented toward the pharmaceutical industry. She has experience in R&D project management, having served as a Project Manager within the biotechnology field. She has gained research experience at institutions such as the Faculty of Medicine of Albacete and the Cancer Research Center (CIC) in Salamanca.

She currently holds the position of Clinical Trial Assistant at Virofend Therapeutics, where she is involved in the coordination and monitoring of projects. Her profile is characterized by a strong scientific and technical background, solid organizational skills, and a clear focus on the efficient management of research and development projects.

Noelia Pintado Antonio
Noelia Pintado Antonio
Clinical Trial Assistant – ViroFend Therapeutics

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Biotechnologist with a strong academic background, holding a degree in Biotechnology from the University of Extremadura and the Polytechnic Institute of Setúbal, and a Master’s in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Salamanca. She has gained research experience in institutions such as IBGM (CSIC/UVa) and Hospital Virgen de la Vega (IBSAL), and holds certification for animal experimentation. Her profile combines scientific knowledge with strong organizational, planning and teamwork skills.

At ViroFend Therapeutics, she works as Clinical Trial Assistant, supporting the technical and operational aspects of clinical studies and acting as a key link between preclinical research and clinical development, contributing to the efficient translation of scientific advances into clinical application.

Carmen Espinosa
Carmen Espinosa Botello
Clinical Trial Assistant – ViroFend Therapeutics

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Biotechnologist with a University Master’s Degree in Cell and Molecular Biology, with a strong foundation in biomedical research and molecular oncology. She developed a research project at the Cancer Research Center (CIC) in Salamanca focused on the analysis of immune factors in multiple myeloma patients. She also gained clinical experience at the University Hospital of Badajoz (HUB), working on biological sample processing and diagnostic testing.

At ViroFend Therapeutics, she works as Clinical Trial Assistant, supporting R&D activities and contributing to the technical and operational aspects of clinical studies, facilitating the integration between research, development and clinical execution through a structured and methodical approach.

Irina Stefana
Irina Stefana
Scientific Advisor – ViroFend Therapeutics

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Irina Stefana is a biologist and holds a PhD in Cellular, Molecular, and Genetic Biology, with nearly fifteen years of experience in biomedical research and innovation management. Her career combines a strong scientific background with specialization in intellectual property and biotechnology strategy, covering areas such as cell biology, genetics, metabolism, neurodegenerative diseases, and technology transfer within the life sciences sector.

As an advisor at Virofend Therapeutics, she applies her scientific and technical expertise to the protection and strategic management of the company’s innovation assets. Through her work, she helps establish robust processes for innovation capture, data confidentiality, and regulatory compliance, ensuring that Virofend’s technological advances are effectively protected and positioned for clinical and commercial success.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Manuel Matutes
Manuel Matutes

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Telecommunications Engineer with executive training (Executive MBA from IESE Business School), Manuel brings a solid background in both technical and leadership roles within the technology sector, particularly in networks, security, and operations. In recent years, he has focused on investment and entrepreneurship, leading a renowned family office and serving on the board of Grupo Palladium, an internationally recognized company. With investments in over one hundred startups and multiple success stories at the national level, he now contributes his strategic vision and business development expertise as a board member of ViroFend Therapeutics.

Juan Alanís
Juan Alanís

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MBA graduate and co-founder of Global Exchange, where he has served as CEO for more than 25 years. Juan has extensive experience in corporate strategy, international expansion, and organizational leadership, complemented by executive training through high-level management programs such as the IESE Board Member Program. Beyond his role as a business angel, with successful investments in several Spanish startups, he also serves as a visiting lecturer in MBA programs at IME Business School (University of Salamanca). He combines his entrepreneurial career with his position as a board member at ViroFend Therapeutics, where he provides strategic vision and expertise in international growth.

Iván Andrés
Iván Andrés

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MBA and CEO of Grupo Andrés, a leading tire distribution company in Europe, where he also serves as Vice President. With more than two decades of business leadership, Iván has built a strong track record in international expansion, operational management, and digital transformation. Alongside his executive role at Grupo Andrés, he is also a business angel with investments in several Spanish tech companies. At ViroFend Therapeutics, he contributes his expertise in business management, growth strategies, and innovation as a member of the board.

Julián Herrero
Julián Herrero

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Industrial Engineer and CEO of Meins, a benchmark company in industrial solutions for renewable energy with a presence in more than 35 countries. His leadership in business development, international expansion, and strategic management has positioned Meins as a key player in the energy infrastructure sector. Julián is also an active business angel, supporting innovative technology ventures, including notable investments such as 300K and other projects in the industrial and energy fields. As a board member of ViroFend Therapeutics, he contributes his industrial scaling experience and business vision to drive high-impact R&D projects.

Jorge Bensadón
Jorge Bensadón

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MBA and highly regarded entrepreneur with more than 40 years of experience in innovation, entrepreneurship, and the biotech industry. Jorge founded multiple companies, including Cytognos S.L., a University of Salamanca spin-off specialized in cytometry, which he successfully led until its acquisition by BD Biosciences for over €40 million. He also co-founded and chaired Vitro S.A., and has served on the boards of tech firms such as BQChem and Dropsens. As a business angel, he continues to support innovative projects and now serves as a board member at ViroFend Therapeutics, contributing his strategic insight, health sector expertise, and experience in technology transfer for R&D initiatives.

Eduardo Salazar
Eduardo Salazar
Assistant Secretary

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Biologist with an MBA and extensive experience in commercial leadership and strategic management. After holding key positions at Michelin in Spain and Latin America, Eduardo joined Grupo Andrés in 2007, where he has since served as General Manager, consolidating the company as one of Europe’s leading tire distributors. He is also a business angel with investments in innovative ventures and has additional training in digital transformation and strategic marketing. Currently, he serves as Deputy Secretary of the Board at ViroFend Therapeutics, bringing executive expertise and business vision to the development of R&D projects.

Carlos Ochoa
Carlos Ochoa
Secretary of the Board

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Law and Political Science graduate with a Master’s in Corporate Legal Advisory from the Fundación de Estudios Bursátiles y Financieros. A specialist in corporate and commercial law, Carlos has over 15 years of experience as a board member and secretary in various companies, including publicly listed firms. He has been recognized by prestigious legal directories such as Legal 500 and Best Lawyers, and was named one of Spain’s top young lawyers by Expansión. In addition, he has published extensively in financial press and has taught commercial law at institutions including IE, EDEM, FEBF, Universidad Europea, and CEU-Cardenal Herrera. As Secretary of the Board at ViroFend Therapeutics, he contributes his expertise in corporate structure, compliance, and legal support for R&D projects.

Adolfo García-Sastre
Adolfo García-Sastre

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Internationally renowned scientist in microbiology and virology. Adolfo earned his BSc and PhD in Sciences from the University of Salamanca before completing postdoctoral training at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York as a Fulbright Scholar, where he began his distinguished academic career in the United States. He has held various positions at the Department of Microbiology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, where he is currently a full professor. He was a pioneer in reconstructing the 1918 influenza virus, a landmark achievement that brought him worldwide recognition. Today, he directs the Research Center for Influenza Pathogenesis (CRIP). With more than 25 years of experience in molecular virology, Adolfo has made major contributions to antigen expression strategies and viral platform development. At ViroFend Therapeutics, he serves as a board member, bringing cutting-edge expertise in virology applied to therapeutic innovation.
Sara Cuadrado Castaño
Sara Cuadrado Castaño

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PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Salamanca, with over 15 years of experience in oncolytic virotherapy research, she currently leads the scientific direction of ViroFend Therapeutics as Chief Scientific Officer (CSO). In parallel, she serves as an Assistant Professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, working within the Department of Microbiology, the Precision Immunology Institute, and the Icahn Genomics Institute. From these institutions, she has spearheaded pioneering projects in the rational design of oncolytic viruses (OVs), building highly specialized in vitro screening platforms and developing in vivo therapeutic strategies across multiple cancer models. Throughout her career, she has contributed to high-impact scientific publications in fields such as immunology, structural virology, lipid nanoparticles, and the molecular mechanisms of cancer. Her work is distinguished by a strong focus on translating basic research into clinically actionable therapies with real therapeutic potential. In recognition of her scientific excellence, she was awarded the First National Prize in Biomedicine for Young Researchers by the Spanish Ministry of Science.

Miguel Ángel Ávila Santiago
Miguel Ángel Ávila Santiago
Chairman of the Board

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Engineer with executive training (MBA) and extensive experience in corporate leadership, strategic R&D management, and technology transfer in the biotech sector, he is currently the CEO and co-founder of ViroFend Therapeutics. He has led over 50 national and international research projects across the pharmaceutical, agri-food, and technology sectors, including initiatives focused on scale-up, fundraising, and corporate expansion. He was also the CEO and co-founder of Neurofix Pharma, a company dedicated to the clinical development of therapies targeting the central nervous system, and has held leadership roles in technical direction, intellectual property, and institutional relations across a range of organizations. Beyond his executive responsibilities, he teaches in master’s programs on innovation and digital transformation (USAL, IME Business School) and advises both public and private initiatives in entrepreneurship and biotechnology. His profile blends business vision with hands-on experience managing international research consortia (FP7, Horizon 2020), and reflects a deep commitment to the broader scientific and tech innovation ecosystem.

EXTERNAL ADVISORS

Carlos Ochoa
Company Legal Partners
Legal Advisory
Carlos Ochoa
Company Legal Partners
José F. Sánchez Iglesias
CEMAD
Financial Advisory
José Francisco Sánchez Iglesias
CEMAD
Bernabé Zea
ZBM
Intellectual Property (IP) Advisory
Bernabé Zea
ZBM
Conchi Torrejón
Clarke Modet
Regulatory Counsel
Conchi Torrejón
Clarke Modet
Ignacio Galicia & Daniel Bermejo
Fundación Teófilo Hernando
Contract Research Organization (CRO)
Ignacio Galicia Daniel Bermejo
Fundación Teófilo Hernando
IDimás
Strategy Consulting
IDimás
Fundación General - Universidad de Salamanca
Fundación General USAL
Universidad de Salamanca
Universidad de Salamanca
Santos Gestión
Employment Advisory
Santos Gestión
ABIOINNOVA
AbioInnova
Ayuntamiento de Salamanca
Ayuntamiento de Salamanca
Quirón Prevención
Quirón Prevención
Valentin Gallego Auditores & Consultores
Auditing Services
Valentín Gallego Auditores & Consultores