Metrion Biosciences appoints Lee Patterson as CEO

Metrion Biosciences, a leader in ion channel screening and a specialised preclinical contract research organisation (CRO), has announced the appointment of Lee Patterson as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Patterson brings extensive expertise from his career in the life sciences and CRO sectors, where he has successfully steered companies through strategic growth and operational improvements. His appointment is set to play a pivotal role in advancing Metrion’s ambitious global expansion and commercial strategy. Patterson takes over from Dr Andrew Southan, who has decided to step down after five successful years as CEO. Under Dr Southan’s leadership, Metrion

experienced remarkable growth, more than doubling its revenues and significantly strengthening its scientific expertise and operational infrastructure, positioning the company for continued success in the years ahead.

Lee Patterson is well-regarded in the CRO sector for his ability to drive long-term commercial growth. Most recently, he served as the CEO of Charnwood Discovery, where he led the company through its successful acquisition by Concept Life Sciences in October 2024. Prior to that, he was Chief Opera

Lee Patterson, CEO, Metrion Biosciences

ting Officer at Quanticate, a global biometrics CRO, and at Concept Life Sciences, where he helped streamline operations and improve operational efficiencies.

“I am delighted to welcome Lee Patterson to the company,” said Keith McCullagh, Chairman of Metrion Biosciences. “His experience of leading commercial CROs and his expertise in enhancing operational efficiencies are both outstanding and we look forward to working with him to continue Metrion’s growth as a specialist CRO serving global markets.”

Strengthening Metrion’s position in drug discovery

Metrion Biosciences has built a solid reputation as a leading provider of ion channel drug discovery services, offering cutting-edge technology and expertise to pharmaceutical and biotech clients. Patterson’s leadership will further solidify this position and help drive the company’s continued success.

Lee Patterson expressed his enthusiasm for the role: “Metrion Biosciences has built an impressive reputation in ion channel drug discovery, with proven commitment to outstanding customer service and world class science. I am excited to join this talented team and look forward to working with them to enhance and expand our specialised services to meet the needs of our clients worldwide.”

The path ahead

As CEO, Patterson will work closely with Metrion’s newly appointed Chief Commercial Officer, Dr Chris Mathes, to accelerate the company’s growth and expand its presence in key global markets. With the increasing demand for advanced ion channel screening and drug discovery services, Metrion is well-positioned to enhance its commercial footprint and continue delivering innovative solutions to pharmaceutical and biotech clients.