BioNTech is entering a new phase of clinical evolution, as it announces that its co-founders, Prof Ugur Sahin and Prof Özlem Türeci, will depart to establish a new, independent biotechnology company.
The transition, expected to be finalised by the end of 2026, will allow the founders to return to their roots by focusing on next-generation mRNA innovations. In parallel, BioNTech is scaling its infrastructure to operate as a fully integrated, multi-product commercial entity by 2030.
A strategic divergence
The new enterprise will operate with distinct resources and funding, while maintaining a symbiotic relationship with BioNTech. Under the proposed terms, the Mainz-based firm plans to contribute specific mRNA technology rights to the startup in exchange for a minority stake, milestones and future royalties.
The founders’ decision to branch out is intended to allow BioNTech to focus its internal resources on its late-stage clinical pipeline. By the end of 2026, the company expects to have 15 ongoing phase 3 clinical trials in oncology, covering immunomodulators and antibody-drug conjugates in addition to its core mRNA candidates.
Leadership transition
BioNTech’s Supervisory Board has already initiated a search for a new CEO and leadership team to succeed Sahin and Türeci. The founders continue in their current roles until their service agreements expire at the end of December 2027 to ensure a seamless transition.
“For us, this is the right time to prepare to hand over the baton,” explained Prof Sahin, CEO and Co-Founder, BioNTech. “At the same time, Özlem and I are ready to become pioneers once again. Our vision has always been to translate our science into meaningful advances for patients, and we see extraordinary opportunities to unlock the next generation of transformative innovations.”
Deal terms and 2030 goal
The move highlights a partnership model increasingly seen across the pharmaceutical industry, where specialised biotech ventures work alongside larger companies to pursue distinct areas of innovation. Helmut Jeggle, Chairman, BioNTech Supervisory Board, said the arrangement would enable both organisations to focus on their respective priorities.
“As BioNTech advances multiple late-stage product candidates towards commercialisation, we support [Prof Sahin and Prof Türeci] in taking the opportunity to apply their strengths and undivided attention to a new venture,” Jeggle stated.
Agreements for the spin-off are expected to be signed by the end of June 2026, after which BioNTech can fully pursue its target of becoming a diversified, multi-product biopharma leader by 2030.
