Skye Bioscience, Inc. announced the appointment of Karen Smith, MD, Ph.D., MBA, LLM to its Board of Directors. Dr. Smith brings significant global biotech and biopharma leadership experience, complementing the Company?s operational and clinical expertise. The strategic focus on the Nimacimab metabolic program will be supported by an evolving board as Keith Ward, PhD, and Praveen Tyle, PhD, resign from their roles as Board members, effective as of August 1, 2024.

Karen Smith, MD, PhD, MBA, LLM, has served as a C-suite biotech industry consultant and pharmaceutical executive, member of the board and clinical and scientific advisor during her 20-year career. She has held various roles, including Chief Executive Officer, Chief Medical Officer, and President. She is a company builder and advocate for women in science and diversity in the boardroom.

Dr. Smith currently serves on the boards of Sangamo Therapeutics, Aurinia Pharma, Capstan Therapeutics, and Mariana Oncology. Previously, Dr. Smith served on the boards of Talaris Therapeutics, Forward Pharmaceuticals, Sucampo Pharmaceuticals, Acceleron Pharma, Antares Pharma, all of which were acquired. Prior to these roles, Dr. Smith held leadership roles at Allergan, AstraZeneca, and Bristol-Myers Squibb.

Dr. Ward will also resign as a member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board and as a member of the Audit Committee of the Board, and Dr. Tyle will resign as a member of the Compensation Committee of the Board, a member of the Audit Committee of the Board and as a member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board, effective August 1, 2024. Dr. Ward and Dr. Tyle's decision to resign from the Board is not as a result of any disagreement with the Company concerning any matter relating to its operations, policies or practices. Dr. Smith was also appointed to the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board, the Compensation Committee of the Board and the Audit Committee of the Board.

Dr. Smith will serve as the chairperson of the Compensation Committee of the Board.