Acadia's R&D chief Thompson exits role, to consult through year-end

Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc. disclosed in an 8-K dated October 23, 2026 that Elizabeth H.Z. Thompson, Ph.D., has stepped down as Executive Vice President, Head of Research and Development. The company had previously disclosed in a Form 8-K filed May 1, 2026 that Thompson informed Acadia on April 27, 2026 of her planned retirement, citing personal reasons.¹

Effective October 23, 2026, Thompson is no longer an employee of the company and no longer holds her former role as Head of Research and Development.¹ The same day, she began a consulting arrangement with the company, under which she plans to provide limited services through December 31, 2026.¹

Acadia said it is in the process of identifying Thompson's replacement.¹

The filing's forward-looking statements section notes uncertainty around the transition. Acadia identified as forward-looking statements the matters of Thompson's continued consulting service, its duration, and the search for a new head of research and development, cautioning that Thompson could decide not to serve as a consultant after all.¹ The company pointed to its periodic SEC filings, including its Form 10-K, Form 10-Q, and other Form 8-K filings, for additional factors that could affect these outcomes.¹

The 8-K was signed by Jennifer J. Rhodes, Acadia's Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer.