Ashley Johns is a distinguished leader in the cell and gene therapy sector, renowned for her strategic vision, detailed-oriented approach, and extensive experience in both cellular and gene therapies. As the co-founder and CEO of MasKidney, Ashley is spearheading the company’s mission to revolutionize the treatment of monogenetic kidney diseases through innovative gene therapy solutions.

Ashley earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Management and Leadership from George Washington University, a credential that complements her extensive experience and strategic vision in the biotechnology sector. Her educational background has provided a solid foundation for her leadership roles and her ability to navigate the complex landscape of clinical and corporate development.

Throughout her career, Ashley has played an integral role in the establishment and scaling of two successful cellular therapy companies within the renal space: RegenMedTX and inRegen. Her expertise spans numerous facets of the biotechnology industry, including fundraising, public markets transitions, clinical and business development, and regulatory strategy. Notably, her contributions were instrumental at ProKidney Corporation, which became a publicly-listed company through a SPAC merger that included a successful $575 million PIPE (Private Investment in Public Equity) financing, among the largest-ever in biotech.

With a keen focus on operations, Ashley has excelled in designing and implementing advanced clinical development strategies for cell and gene therapies. She has been a clinical subject matter expert, guiding regulatory designations such as Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy (RMAT), Orphan Drug, and Fast Track. Her work includes the comprehensive design and development of protocols for an autologous cell therapy product, guiding it from pre-clinical development through multiple Phase 2 studies and the launch of a Phase 3 program.