BioNTech confirmed that co‑founders Uğur Şahin and Özlem Türeci will leave the company by year‑end to launch a new venture focused on next‑generation mRNA therapeutics. BioNTech said it will grant the new company certain rights to its mRNA technology and take a minority stake. The move signals serial entrepreneurship from the pair and a potential redistribution of early‑stage mRNA IP and talent. BioNTech will narrow its operational focus as its founders transition; both the parent company and the upcoming spinout will likely coordinate on technology licensing and program handoffs. The departure has prompted investor and partner interest in how rights, equity and program ownership will be allocated across both organizations.