Dr. Sonja Merkas is recognized for her unique blend of expertise in business strategy, operations and processes, R&D and manufacturing. With over 25 years of experience in the life science industry, she has worked with companies to tackle complex challenges and drive innovative growth. 

Her journey with oligonucleotides began in 2003 with her PhD and postdoctoral research at ETH Zurich, followed by a decade in nucleic acid therapeutics at Novartis. Since 2021, she has advised pharma, biotech, CDMOs and startups on strategy, business growth, and operation excellence, helping them solve complex challenges. 

As the Founder and CEO of Livinovea GmbH, Sonja helps clients align business goals with operations and technical assets, specializing in CMC, project management, productivity improvements and cost reductions, and business expansion.   

She serves on advisory boards and is an active speaker at leading industry events, contributing to major RNA therapeutics conferences in Europe. 

Passionate about driving growth and fostering innovation, Sonja is recognized for her strategic mindset and ability to bridge business, technical and operational goals to achieve success.