Bastiano Sanna

Bastiano has dedicated his career to biotechnology and is excited about the potential of cell and genetic therapies. He joined Vertex in 2019 as part of the acquisition of Semma Therapeutics, and he is responsible for advancing research, development and manufacturing for all of our cell and genetic therapy programs, including sickle cell disease, beta thalassemia, type 1 diabetes and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. He also oversees the Jeffrey Leiden Center for Cell and Genetic Therapies that opened in 2022 at Innovation Square in Boston’s Seaport District.

He graduated with his Ph.D. in biotechnology from the University of Sassari in Italy. Before joining Vertex, he was the CEO and President of Semma Therapeutics. Under his leadership, Semma’s pioneering work to develop cell therapy treatments for those living with type 1 diabetes significantly advanced. He also held leadership roles with Magenta Therapeutics and Novartis.

Bastiano currently serves on the board of directors of Adicet Bio, Inc., a biotechnology company.