Apitope, a clinical stage biotech company, has named Dr William Jenkins as its independent, non-executive director, it was reported yesterday. Dr Jenkins has a wealth of pharmaceutical industry experience following a 30-year career in clinical medicine and research. He has also served on several boards including Ablynx, Evotec and Acambis.

Stephane Verdood, chairman of the board, said, 'We are pleased to welcome William to Apitope's board of directors. William's extensive drug development expertise is a valuable addition as we seek to advance development of our potential first-in-class antigen-specific treatments targeted at autoimmune diseases. William has advised companies through various stages of growth to maturity and I know he will provide further strength and depth to the board.'