MassBio News

Policy Update

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EDT

In March, MassBio announced that that our Chairman of the Board of Directors, Geoff MacKay, was named to the Health Policy Commission (HPC) Advisory Council. In his new role, Geoff Mackay will be joined by representatives from across the health care field to help guide the Health Policy Commission’s implementation of the state’s health care cost containment law. The Council will advise the HPC’s overall operations and policies, provide feedback on a grant program to support new system delivery and payment reform methods, and encourage public and stakeholder engagement in the HPC’s work. We look forward to our Chairman’s new role as he continues to bring insight and an industry voice to the health care reform implementation process.

On March 12^th and 13^th, MassBio participated in BIO Fly-In in Washington D.C., where biotechnology executives from across the country met to take part in legislative briefings and advocacy. MassBio had a strong presence at the event, meeting with Members of Congress and their staff to discuss important legislative issues facing our industry. One highlight from BIO Fly-In was MassBio’s Spring Reception event, where members of the Massachusetts Congressional Delegation and staff met with biotech leaders from the Commonwealth to engage in an active discussion on the current state and future of our industry. The reception proved to be a successful event and we would like thank everyone who attended for participating in such an important opportunity for our industry.

The Massachusetts Biotech Caucus has also been very busy this year. To kick off the legislative session, Senator Karen Spilka and Representative Joseph Wagner, co-chairs of the Biotech Caucus, held a Caucus event at the State House on Influenza Vaccination and Public Health. In the wake of the influenza outbreak this past winter, the event provided a timely review of the current vaccination options and what will be available for the next flu season. Legislators and staff alike attended to hear the discussion about innovative public health vaccination initiatives and steps that can be taken to improve public health in the Commonwealth.

In March, AstraZeneca welcomed members of the Massachusetts Biotech Caucus to their R&D Facility at Gatehouse Park in Waltham which is their headquarters for global infectious disease research and oncology drug research. In April, the Biotech Caucus continued its tour of the AstraZeneca facilities when it visited the Westborough manufacturing facility, where a sterile preservative free suspension used to treat bronchial asthma is produced. Biotech Caucus events continue to be great learning opportunities for Legislators and their staff, and MassBio looks forward to future Caucus events to come.

Return of BioPharm America™ 2013 to Boston will draw leading international life science dealmakers to northeast

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EDT

Washington, DC; Carlsbad, CA and Boston, MA – April 18, 2013: EBD Group, the leading partnering firm for the life science industry, in collaboration with the Massachusetts Biotechnology Council (MassBio) announced today that BioPharm America™ 2013 will again be held in Boston September 17–19 at the Westin Boston Waterfront in Boston, MA.

Senior executives from big pharma are set to attend, including AstraZeneca, Bayer HealthCare, EMD Serono, Janssen, Merck, Novo Nordisk, Shire, and more. Program topics cover trends in healthcare and drug development and other timely issues for industry insiders. Spotlight panels and roundtables will also feature industry leaders in discussions on innovative partnerships, emerging markets and global drug development strategies. The 2012 edition welcomed over 750 delegates representing 462 companies from 30 countries. Delegates in 2012 engaged in 1,846 one-to-one partnering meetings with 652 licensing opportunities.

“Boston is a biotechnology innovation hub. There are more than 500 companies focused on pharmaceutical and biotech drug discovery located in Massachusetts, from small start-ups to large established pharmaceuticals,” said Carola Schropp, President of EBD Group. “This creates an ideal environment for partnering, and is what draws the global biotech sector to BioPharm America.”

“At MassBio, our focus is to promote world class biotechnology in Massachusetts, and BioPharm America is the forum that enables regional biotech companies to identify and enter into strategic relationships at the global level,” said Robert Coughlin, President and CEO of MassBio. “The partnering at BioPharm America, and particularly the process of meeting face-to-face to discuss novel assets, is a definite advantage in the culmination of any deal.”

BioPharm America 2013 will again celebrate the announcement of the Fierce 15, selected for their pioneering technology and innovative business models, with John Carroll, Editor-in-Chief of FierceBiotech, featured on a panel with several Fierce 15 CEOs to discuss the industry outlook for the life sciences.

One-to-one networking at BioPharm America™ is powered by partneringONE^®, the leading conference networking solution for the life sciences.

MassBio members receive an additional USD 200 discount by adding the code ‘MassBio’ in the comments field of the online registration form.

Presenting companies should submit an application by June 28, 2013 at http://www.ebdgroup.com/bpa/presenters/index.php

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About BioPharm America 2013

BioPharm America is where biotech industry partnerships get started. Meet face-to-face with biotech and pharma executives from around the world to identify and enter strategic relationships. Equipped with partneringONE®, BioPharm America is the only event in North America based on the same reputable formula as EBD Group’s acclaimed European events BIO-Europe® and BIO-Europe Spring®.

Additional links and information:

Follow BioPharm America 2013 on Twitter: twitter.com/ebdgroup (hashtag: #BPA13)

Notes to Editors:

Entry to BioPharm America 2013 is free to members of the press, including full access to the partnering system, sessions, press conferences, workshops, and pre-arranged partnering meetings. Visit the BioPharm America conference website at http://www.ebdgroup.com/bpa/registration/press_reg.php for press registration details. In addition, Business Wire, the official News Release Distribution and Online Press Kit service for BioPharm America™ 2013, is offering services to enhance your public relations efforts.

About MassBio

www.massbio.org

MassBio, a not-for-profit organization that represents and provides services and support for the Massachusetts biotechnology industry, is the nation's oldest biotechnology trade association. Founded in 1985, MassBio is committed to advancing the development of critical new science, technology and medicines that benefit people worldwide. Representing over 600 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, research hospitals, and service organizations involved in life sciences and health care, MassBio works to advance policy and promote education, while providing member programs and events, industry information, and services.

About EBD Group

EBD Group is the leading partnering firm for the global life science industry. Since 1993, biotech, pharma and medical device companies have leveraged EBD Group’s partnering conferences, technology and services to identify business opportunities and develop strategic relationships essential to their success.

EBD Group’s conferences are run with the support of leading corporations and international trade associations and include:

BIO-Europe® and BIO-Europe Spring®, Europe’s largest life science partnering conferences, supported by the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO)
BioPharm America™, the fastest growing partnering event in North America
Biotech Showcase™, a unique forum in San Francisco for presenting to investors and business development executives, co-produced with Demy-Colton Life Science Advisors
BioEquity Europe, the investor conference co-organized with BioCentury Publications and BIO
ChinaBio® Partnering Forum, the first dedicated biotech/pharma partnering conference in China, co-produced with ChinaBio® LLC
EuroMedtech™, EBD Group’s partnering event for the innovative medical technology industry
Partnering for Global Impact®, a new partnering conference providing an innovative forum to partner, identify and generate social and philanthropic investment and funding opportunities

EBD Group’s sophisticated web-based partnering service, partneringONE®, is also used as the partnering engine at numerous third-party events around the world, and partnering360® is the open online community of life science dealmakers that enhances partnering experiences all year long.

Outside of the conference format, EBD Group’s consultants provide hands-on assistance for firms seeking to in- or out-license products and technologies.

EBD Group has offices in the USA and Europe.

For more information please visit www.ebdgroup.com.

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Adrian Haber and Rahi Punjabi Selected as Massachusetts BioGENEius Delegates

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EDT

Delegates Headed to Chicago for Prestigious Science Competition

April 10, 2013 (Cambridge, MA) — Adrian Haber of Boston Latin School and Rahi Punjabi of Advanced Math and Science Academy Charter School in Marlborough have been selected to represent Massachusetts at an international science fair competition in Chicago this month.

Haber, of Boston and Punjabi, of Northborough, will compete against students from across the country in the U.S. National BioGENEius Challenge at the BIO International Convention in Chicago on April 20, 2013.

“By highlighting the amazing research of these students, at such a young age, the BioGENEius Challenge promotes scientific excellence and curiosity. With more than 430 students competing in the Challenge each year, we hope to encourage these students – as well as others – to consider pursuing a career in biotechnology, said Tom Wiggans, Chairman of The Biotechnology Institute, which organizes the challenge.

The young scientists earned their spots through a competitive process based on cutting-edge research they prepared for the Massachusetts State Science & Engineering Fair (MSSEF), which will take place from May 2-4 at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Tenth grader Haber's biochemistry-based project is titled “Testing the Effectiveness of Liposomal Nanoparticle Delivery of Oxybutynin to Reduce Bladder Spasms.” Through a novel method of using isolated pig bladders, the project tests the effectiveness of using liposomal nanoparticles to direct the delivery of medications for the treatment of overactive bladder and reduce side effects. With more than 39 million adults in the U.S. suffering from overactive bladder, Haber's project addresses a significant problem. He concluded that when oxybutynin is contained in liposomal nanoparticles it can diffuse into bladder tissue to reduce bladder spasms.

Punjabi is a BioGENEius Challenge veteran, having represented Massachusetts in the 2012 Challenge with a project exploring the antibiotic potential of garlic. This year, the eleventh grader entered another biology-based project called "Engineering a Novel Fusion Protein Therapy for Meningococcal Infection." The study looks at Neisseria meningitidis, a major and deadly cause of meningitis and sepsis worldwide. Punjabi concluded that fusion proteins show potential as a therapy for meningococcal infection.

As BioGENEius delegates, Haber and Punjabi will attend the 2013 BIO International Convention in Chicago (April 22-25), and participate in the national BioGENEius Challenge on April 20th. Based on their placement in the national competition, each delegate -- or both -- could advance to the international competition held on the following day. This is an all-expense-paid trip for the delegates and their chaperones.

The BioGENEius Challenges are national and international competitions for high school students that recognize excellence in original research in biotechnology. The Challenges, organized by the Biotechnology Institute, are prestigious science competitions with significant cash prizes awarded to the winners.

Selected winners of BioGENEius Challenges compete and present their research posters and oral presentations in front of a panel of biotech judges. The students are evaluated on their scientific merit and creative ability, project execution, and poster/oral presentation.

MassBioEd, a local partner of the BioGENEius Challenge, worked alongside MSSEF to recruit students as participants in the BioGENEius competition. MassBioEd was active in recruiting judges for both the National and International BioGENEius Challenges as well as coordinating with the MSSEF winners in preparation for the BIO International Convention.

“The BioGENEius Challenge is the premier competition for high school students inspired to excel in the field of biotechnology,” said Lance Hartford, Executive Director of the MassBioEd Foundation. “We are proud of the two Massachusetts students that will represent the state in the upcoming U.S. BioGENEius challenge and wish them the best as they compete and present their exciting research.”

MassBioEd Launches New Website MassBioEd.org

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EDT

Comprehensive, dynamic site is new go-to resource for STEM stakeholders

March 20, 2013 (CAMBRIDGE, MA) - The Massachusetts Biotechnology Education Foundation (MassBioEd), a leader in STEM and biotechnology education, launched its new website on March 20, 2013. The site, www.massbioed.org, is designed to be the go-to resource for Massachusetts educators, students, postdocs, and life sciences industry professionals.

MassBioEd Foundation, which was established in 2001 by the Massachusetts Biotechnology Council (MassBio), is a nonprofit organization committed to supporting STEM through roots in biotech. MassBioEd supports biotechnology education through school programs, workforce training, and lifelong learning.

“MassBioEd is a proud leader in STEM education, but over time we realized our website could no longer serve the diverse and ever-evolving needs of the STEM community” said Lance Hartford, Executive Director of the Foundation. “We are pleased to unveil our new site which provides top-notch STEM and biotech resources and complements our programming and events.”

MassBioEd.org offers a comprehensive, user-friendly experience for a variety of audiences. From providing biotech career descriptions for students, to curricula materials for STEM educators, career resources for post-docs, and courses for industry professionals - the new and improved website is designed to cater to all individuals involved in STEM education and the biotech industry.

Alongside the new website, MassBioEd has launched a strong presence on social media. The nonprofit’s Twitter and Facebook pages serve as resources for STEM education stakeholders across the country.

MassBioEd invites the public to explore the new website and encourages STEM stakeholders to “Like” MassBioEd on Facebook and “Follow” @MassBioEd on Twitter.

MassBioEd partnered with Newburyport-based web development company iMarc on the website upgrade project.

About the MassBioEd Foundation

http://www.massbioed.org

The Massachusetts Biotechnology Education Foundation (MassBioEd), founded in 2001, is a nonprofit charitable organization committed to supporting science and biotechnology education in Massachusetts through school programs, workforce training, and lifelong learning. Serving as a link between education, industry, and government MassBioEd is working to ensure Massachusetts’ largest sector of the economy, biotechnology, has an appropriately trained work force to meet the growing employment needs. MassBioEd’s BioTeach program, which trains teachers in biotechnology curriculum and provides grants for lab equipment, has reached 185 schools across the Commonwealth. In addition, MassBioEd’s Biotech Learning Center offers professional development courses for employees in the biotech sector to advance their professional skills.

MassBio Welcomes 3 New Board Members: Olson, Pomponio & Roychowdhury to Join Board

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EDT

CAMBRIDGE, MA (March 15, 2013) – MassBio members today elected three new life sciences executives to the organization’s Board of Directors at the 2013 MassBio Annual Meeting.

Joining the board this year are Lisa Olson, Divisional Vice President of Immunology Research & ABC Site Head at AbbVie, Alice Lin Pomponio, Leader of Americas Science Relations at AstraZeneca, and Debasish Roychowdhury, Head of Oncology at Sanofi.

“As an organization that aims to reflect the depth and breadth of our membership, we are thrilled to add three such prestigious names to our Board of Directors,” said MassBio President & CEO Robert K. Coughlin. “Lisa represents the new iteration of a long-time industry powerhouse, Alice brings a pure-play global biopharma R&D perspective, and Debasish represents one of our newest global players making a home in Massachusetts. We thank them all for their commitment to the industry here.”

Also joining the board is Renee Connolly, Vice President of US Communications for EMD Serono, who fills a seat on the board reserved for the Chair of the Board of the MassBioEd Foundation.

The 2013-2014 members of the MassBio Executive Committee are:

Chair Geoff MacKay, Organogenesis Inc.

Vice Chair Glenn Batchelder, Civitas Therapeutics

Treasurer Michael O'Hara, Deloitte

Clerk Abbie Celniker, Eleven Biotherapeutics

Past Chair Geoffrey Cox, Red Sky Partners

Counsel Lawrence Wittenberg, Goodwin Proctor

The 2013-2014 members of the MassBio Board of Directors are:

Caren Arnstein, Genzyme

Mark Bamforth, Gallus Biopharmaceuticals

Margaret Chu-Moyer, Amgen

Jeffrey Elton, Accenture

Scott Gillis, Onsite Therapeutics

Steven Gilman, Cubist Pharmaceuticals

Jose Carlos Gutierrez-Ramos, Pfizer

James Hoyes, EMD Serono

Edwin Kania, Flagship Ventures

Laurie Bartlett Keating, Millennium: The Takeda Oncology Company

Mark Leuchtenberger

David Lucchino, Semprus BioSciences

Lisa Olson, AbbVie

Deanna Petersen, Shire Pharmaceuticals

Alice Lin Pomponio, AstraZeneca

Steven Richter, Microtest Laboratories

Debasish Roychowdhury, Sanofi Oncology

Amit Sachdev, Vertex Pharmaceuticals

Frank Thomas, AMAG Pharmaceuticals

Kathleen Tregoning, Biogen Idec

Charles Wilson, Novartis

Lawrence Wittenberg, Goodwin Procter

Bill McDermott, McDermott, Quilty & Miller

Robert Gottlieb, RMG Associates

FDA Commissioner, Industry Leaders Gather to Discuss Most Pressing Life Sciences Issues

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EDT

MassBio Annual Meeting Convenes Industry Stakeholders

March 15, 2013 (CAMBRIDGE, MA) — Nearly 400 biotechnology industry leaders gathered this week at the Royal Sonesta Hotel in Cambridge, right in the heart of the state’s biotech cluster, to participate in MassBio’s 2013 Annual Meeting.

The meeting took place across two days, and included discussions on healthcare reimbursement, what’s next in oncology research, the future of biosimilars and research resources sharing.

“These conversations go to the very heart of what we do and how we as an industry will operate into the future,” said Robert K. Coughlin. “We must understand our role in a shifting economic and regulatory environment and attempt to answer these big, complicated questions. Our only way forward is to address them together.”

The event’s keynote speakers included FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg and John Crowley, Chairman & CEO of Amicus Therapeutics. Commissioner Hamburg spoke on Friday and addressed industry concerns on time to approval, the threat of sequestration and other budget cuts, and recent successes in industry-FDA collaboration.

“I am committed to working with all of you—and many others—on the broad-based national strategy to advance biomedical product innovation that I believe is so very much needed at this critical time,” Hamburg said. “I think I can say that at FDA we are striving to do our part. Success will require regulatory flexibility, advancing regulatory science, and true collaboration among health professionals, industry, government, academia, and our global health partners.”

She shared examples of Massachusetts companies who had successfully navigated FDA approval pathways, and discussed the possibility of a new pathway in the future—one utilized for for “special limited use,” in cases where a population of patients may require additional methods of treatments than others in with the same disease or diagnosis.

“Such an approach – which would require working with Congress for the creation of a new drug approval pathway -- could permit a more appropriate risk-benefit evaluation for conditions such as serious, drug resistant infections or a chronic disease problem like obesity, where there is a significant range of patients and associated risks,” Hamburg said. “We are exploring this new pathway because we think it could enable potentially lifesaving medicines to be made available to patients in a more timely way.”

The full text of Commissioner Hamburg’s speech is online at http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Speeches/ucm343949.htm.

Crowley delivered his address on Thursday where he shared his experiences as a biotech executive, father, and patient advocate.

"We didn’t pick to be here because ‘boy you can make a lot of money in this industry '. I’ve never seen a biotech plan where the vision was - last slide- we’re all gonna get rich. That’s not what we do. Most of us don’t because it’s just so hard in this business to make money. In some respects it may just be the hardest business there is. It’s a tall order to succeed, but to …[those]… in this world who have succeeded so very well, it is a remarkable example of why this is such a unique industry and the impact it can have on people’s lives.”

Josef von Rickenbach, Founder, CEO and Chairman, PAREXEL International received the Henri A. Termeer Innovative Leadership Award for his commitment and contributions to the biotechnology industry at the Awards Luncheon on Friday.

For inspiring students to explore life sciences careers through progressive biotechnology education and exemplary science career programming, Gloucester was chosen as the Joshua Boger Innovative School of the Year.

To recognize its commitment to growing the life sciences supercluster in Massachusetts, Massachusetts Biomedical Initiatives (MBI) of Worcester was honored with MassBio's Leading Impact Award.

18 companies and organizations sponsored the Annual Meeting including AT&T, Fisher Scientific, Pfizer and Sanofi.

Gloucester High School Named MassBioEd Innovative School of the Year

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EDT

March 11, 2013 (CAMBRIDGE, MA) – Gloucester High School (GHS) has been named this year’s Joshua Boger Innovative School of the Year by the Massachusetts Biotechnology Education Foundation (MassBioEd) for inspiring students to explore life sciences careers through progressive biotechnology education and exemplary science career programming.

In 2009, GHS was selected as a BioTeach school. Over the past four years students and faculty have actively participated in both teacher professional development and biotechnology lab experiences. Gloucester has successfully utilized their BioTeach grant to create innovative programs and partnerships to ensure that students of all levels and academic achievement have the chance to experience biotechnology labs.

“Gloucester High School has done a remarkable job fostering STEM education and encouraging students to pursue careers in biotechnology as they look toward their futures,” said Lance Hartford, Executive Director of MassBioEd. “The judging panel was particularly impressed with the school’s commitment to building new partnerships to develop science outreach programs and their innovative use of BioTeach labs to give all students the opportunity to explore the world of biotechnology.”

GHS has also creatively adapted BioTeach labs and equipment to establish new biotech summer camp programs for high school students.

"This recognition is an important step forward for Gloucester High School, as we work towards our goal of becoming a leader in STEM related high school education,” said Principal Erik Anderson. “Thank you to MassBioEd for making the Innovative School of the Year Award available. All the credit for this honor goes to Mr. Eric Leigh, whose hard-work and selfless dedication to Gloucester High School students makes a difference every day. Way to go, Mr. Leigh and way to go Gloucester High School!"

“Gloucester High School is so excited to be named the Innovative School of the Year,” said Rachel Rex, Supervising Program Leader, Gloucester High School Science Department. “This is a wonderful opportunity for our students. The resources provided by MassBioEd continue to enable Gloucester High School students to see a real world connection between the classroom and industry. Who knows, an opportunity such as this could cultivate the next great Nobel Laureate.”

The award will be given at a luncheon ceremony at MassBio’s Annual Meeting on Friday, March 15th at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, 40 Edwin Land Blvd, Cambridge, MA. GHS will be represented by science teacher Eric Leigh and 10th grade students Morey Ronan and Jason Erwin.

The Joshua Boger Innovative School of the Year Award was established by the MassBioEd Foundation to honor a Massachusetts school that has distinguished itself through exemplary progressive biotechnology educational programming.

Gloucester High School is well-deserving of the prestigious award for its year round dedication to ensuring all of its students have the opportunity to explore the life sciences. The award will help the program continue to encourage students to pursue an education in STEM and biotechnology through the growth of partnerships and program expansion.

Worcester’s Massachusetts Biomedical Initiatives (MBI) to Receive MassBio’s Leading Impact Award

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EDT

Honor recognizes commitment to strengthening the MA life sciences supercluster

March 12, 2013 (CAMBRIDGE, MA) – Massachusetts Biomedical Initiatives (MBI) will be honored for its significant contribution and commitment to improving the competitiveness of Massachusetts as a destination for the life sciences industry with the MassBio Leading Impact Award, the trade association announced today.

MBI President & CEO Kevin O’Sullivan will accept the award during MassBio’s Annual Meeting on Thursday, March 14^th at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, 40 Edwin Land Blvd, Cambridge, MA.

The Leading Impact Award was developed by MassBio’s Economic Development Advisory Group (EDAG) to annually recognize significant contributions made by innovative organizations within the industry, and in the arena of property development and local, regional, and state economic development, that have successfully worked to improve the ecosystem for industry growth in Massachusetts.

“MBI has fostered entrepreneurship and life sciences startups in MA for almost three decades, helping dozens of companies to become established and to grow,” said Mark R. Bamforth, EDAG Chairman and President & CEO of Gallus Pharmaceuticals. “It took foresight and courage to create a biotech hub in Worcester which complements the growth of the industry in Cambridge and around the Commonwealth. Kevin O’Sullivan has been a stalwart advocate for strong regional growth.”

Massachusetts Biomedical Initiatives (MBI) in Worcester, is a private, independent economic development organization dedicated to job creation and innovative healthcare throughout Massachusetts by promoting the growth of start-up biomedical companies. MBI operates three life science business incubator facilities in Worcester that are home to twenty companies with approximately 100 employees. Through its incubator facilities, MBI lowers barriers to success for emerging companies by providing cost-effective, high quality laboratory space and support services.

“The Leading Edge Award is a great tribute to our entrepreneurial MBI tenant companies - past and present, who commercialize their science by way of creating innovative companies and jobs while in turn helping to grow our Massachusetts economy,” said Kevin O’Sullivan, President & CEO of MBI. “We are grateful to MassBio for this recognition and look forward to continuing to work with them in fulfilling our economic mission.”

MBI was nominated for the award by the team at the City of Worcester.

“MBI was and remains instrumental in establishing Worcester as a premier biotechnology center,” said Timothy J. McGourthy, Chief Development Officer of the City of Worcester. “Under Kevin O’Sullivan’s leadership MBI has become a center for collaboration and innovation. MBI’s promotion of new start-ups, institutional partnerships, and tireless advocacy is transforming the future of healthcare worldwide as well as stimulating job growth in Worcester and throughout the Commonwealth.”

MBI is the second organization to receive this award. Last year’s winner was Pfizer's Center for Therapeutic Innovation (CTI) in Boston, MA.

PAREXEL CEO Josef von Rickenbach to Receive MassBio’s Henri Termeer Innovative Leadership Award

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST

Commitment to innovation, growth, and leadership in Massachusetts

March 7, 2013 (CAMBRIDGE, MA) – Josef von Rickenbach, Chairman and CEO of PAREXEL International Corporation (NASDAQ: PRXL), will be honored for his commitment and contributions to the biotechnology industry, the Massachusetts Biotechnology Council (MassBio) announced today.

Von Rickenbach co-founded PAREXEL as a regulatory consulting company in 1982 and soon grew the organization into a pioneer in clinical research outsourcing. To make clinical development more effective for clients, he conceived a multidisciplinary and systems-oriented approach to outsourced clinical development, bringing efficiencies, scalability, and standardization to the process. Thirty years later, PAREXEL is a $1.4 billion global company and one of the top biopharmaceutical service organizations in the world.

The company has forged long-standing strategic partnerships with the world’s largest biopharma companies as well as the next generation of industry innovators. For example, the PAREXEL® BioPharm Unit focuses solely on the unique needs of small and mid-sized companies and helps them achieve their development goals.

Today, PAREXEL employs nearly 14,000 people in 73 offices across 51 countries. The company employs 2,000 people across three Massachusetts locations, including its international headquarters in Waltham.

Under von Rickenbach’s leadership, the PAREXEL® Academy is committed to developing the future biopharmaceutical workforce with courses specifically tailored to meeting the growing talent needs of the clinical development job market. That commitment is evident in programs like PAREXEL’s new partnership with Salem State University to offer a Post Graduate Certificate Program in Clinical Trial Management.

Earlier this year, von Rickenbach was elected Chairman of the Association of Clinical Research Organizations (ACRO). He also serves on the Board of Directors of New England Healthcare Institute.

“Josef von Rickenbach has been an innovator since the moment he founded his company, shaping an industry that has become a vital piece of the drug development process,” said MassBio President & CEO Robert K. Coughlin. “We are thrilled to honor his commitment to the industry, to Massachusetts and to the next generation of life sciences workers.”

The award will be presented at MassBio’s Annual Meeting on Friday, March 15^th at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, 40 Edwin Land Blvd, Cambridge, MA.

The award recognizes an industry executive who has a strong presence and commitment to growth in Massachusetts, actively supports community-based organizations, contributes to science education to prepare the future workforce, and creates a positive work environment that fosters motivation and collaboration. It is named for longtime President and CEO of Genyzme, Henri Termeer.

“I am truly honored to be recognized by MassBio for this award,” said von Rickenbach. “I am proud of PAREXEL’s achievements, including the continued commitment of our employees worldwide to deliver on our goal to be a premier partner to the biopharmaceutical industry. We have maintained a clear focus on our mission to combine the strength of our expertise, experience and innovation to bring new medical treatments to market faster.”

Von Rickenbach is the fifth person to receive this award. Past recipients include former EMD Serono President & CEO Fereydoun Firouz, Cubist Pharmaceuticals President & CEO Michael Bonney, Millennium: The Takeda Oncology Company President & CEO Deborah Dunsire, and Vertex CEO Joshua Boger.

About PAREXEL

PAREXEL International Corporation is a leading global bio/pharmaceutical services organization, providing a broad range of knowledge-based contract research, consulting, and medical communications services to the worldwide pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device industries. Committed to providing solutions that expedite time-to-market and peak-market penetration, PAREXEL has developed significant expertise across the development and commercialization continuum, from drug development and regulatory consulting to clinical pharmacology, clinical trials management, medical education and reimbursement. Perceptive Informatics, Inc., a subsidiary of PAREXEL, provides advanced technology solutions, including medical imaging, to facilitate the clinical development process. Headquartered near Boston, Massachusetts, PAREXEL operates in 73 locations throughout 51 countries around the world, and has approximately 14,000 employees. For more information about PAREXEL International visit www.PAREXEL.com.

About MassBio

www.massbio.org

New Online Tool Showcases Growing MA Contract Research & Contract Manufacturing Cluster

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST

February 25, 2013 (CAMBRIDGE, MA) -This morning, MassBio launched a new online portal to showcase the breadth and depth of contract research and contract manufacturing in Massachusetts. The MA CRO CMO Gateway is part of an initiative to market the complete continuum of services – from discovery through commercialization—available in Massachusetts.

A 2011 analysis by Tufts Center for the Study of Drug Development (Tufts CSDD) found a nearly four-fold increase in the number of contract research organizations (CROs) in the U.S. alone during the past decade. The market for contract services in the Greater Boston area alone has reached between $3.6 billion and $4.3 billion. There are 126 companies in Massachusetts providing contract non-clinical research, and 68 offering clinical research. Another 111 companies are providing CMC services for clients around the world.

The Gateway is powered by OnDeckBiotech, an online exchange for outsourced therapeutic R&D services. The OnDeckBiotech platform makes outsourcing faster, more secure, and more reliable. OnDeckBiotech was a 2012 MassChallenge winner.

The Gateway debuted in the opening session of MassBio’s second annual MA CRO CMO Symposium, a day of discussion on the role contract partnerships are playing in accelerating drug development. Visit the gateway here: http://www.massbio.org/economic_development/the_ma_cro_cmo_cluster

Not in it Alone: Diabetes Network Founder Finds His Voice

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST

A nonprofit leader, recognized social media author and passionate diabetes advocate, has lived with Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA) since 2002.

Sometimes referred to as type 1.5 diabetes, LADA can be classified as a more slowly progressing variation of type 1 diabetes, yet it is often misdiagnosed as type 2.Hernandez was one of those patients incorrectly diagnosed with type 2 and sent home with a treatment of Metformin, diet and exercise. When that treatment proved to be unsuccessful, he was referred to an endocrinologist, tested positive for Glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) antibodies – a marker of type 1 – and put on an insulin treatment. He was formally diagnosed with LADA in 2007.

“When you are first diagnosed with diabetes, the amount of information you have to learn is overwhelming,” said Hernandez. “And in the educational materials that people with diabetes typically get presented with, the voice of the patient is frequently missing. When you incorporate the perspective of the patient, the realities of life with diabetes are uncovered.”

To provide others with that personal perspective, Hernandez began blogging about his experience shortly after his diagnosis. In 2007, he founded the social network TuDiabetes.org, and its Spanish sister site EsTuDiabetes.org. The network has more than 26,000 members.

“Nobody with diabetes should ever feel alone,” Hernandez said. “With the proliferation of online communities, you can connect with someone in India, the Philippines or just the other side of town. This facilitates a more open dialogue and a richer exchange, which empowers us and generates a positive impact within ourselves and the community.”

In 2008, Hernandez and his wife, Andreina Davila, cofounded the Diabetes Hands Foundation to further connect, engage and empower people touched by diabetes. He served as the foundation’s chairman between 2008 and 2012, developing the board from five members to 14 and supporting the organization’s growth to nearly $500,000 in annual revenue. As president of the foundation, he is responsible for program strategy, fundraising and partnership development. In addition, he has published books and is a frequent speaker at conferences on the topic of the intersection of social media and health.

Nationally, Novo Nordisk, the world’s leading diabetes care company, has announced a new partnership with the Diabetes Hands Foundation, to ask, “Do You Know Diabetes?” The cornerstone of the partnership is an interactive quiz to test consumers’ knowledge of diabetes facts, risk factors and statistics, and provide valuable education about the disease. You can learn more about diabetes by taking the “Do You Know Diabetes?” quiz today. Visit www.DoYouKnowDiabetes.com or join the conversation on Twitter using the hashtag #DiabetesFYI.

“Living with a chronic condition can make it difficult to relate to other people or allow others to relate to you because your condition doesn’t go away,” said Hernandez. “The ability for people to connect with each other, even at a very basic level, helps them get support.”

Born in Venezuela, Hernandez now lives in Palo Alto, Calif. with his wife and son. He earned his master’s degree from Cornell University and has more than 15 years of experience in team and project management.

Four Entrepreneurs Chosen to Catalyze & Commercialize Innovation

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST

MassCONNECT mentor program pairs new entrepreneurs with seasoned pros to advance ideas

February 19, 2013 (CAMBRIDGE, MA) —Entrepreneurs developing therapies using immune cells to kill cancer, software for cheaper and easier DNA sequencing, technology to provide personalized dosing in clinical trials and products to revolutionize treatment for atrial fibrillation have been chosen to learn from life sciences pros in the latest round of MassCONNECT.

These four ideas were chosen for inclusion in MassCONNECT, MassBio’s entrepreneur mentorship program, which kicked off its first cycle of 2013 today with a Technology Showcase. These entrepreneurs—chosen for their innovative technologies, products, or services—are paired with seasoned life sciences professionals for evaluation and advice as they work toward developing business plans, launching companies, and raising capital.

“MassCONNECT energizes the life sciences ecosystem and advances innovation by connecting inventors and entrepreneurs with the resources needed for success,” said John Hallinan, Chief Business Officer at MassBio.

The applicants chosen for the latest round of mentorship are:

Pattern Genomics, LLC - Daniel Fasulo, Ph.D.

Pattern Genomics has developed a novel software platform called Daydreamer that enables simultaneous pattern analysis and molecular assay design based on large-scale DNA sequencing data. The software forms the core of a robust, reproducible, and broadly-applicable process to assay design that is largely automated and far faster than traditional approaches, and hence much less expensive.

Boston 3T Biotechnologies - Meijia Yang, Ph.D.

Woburn, MA

Boston 3T Biotechnologies is developing genetically engineered T-cells as therapeutic for treating lymphomas and solid tumors. The therapeutic mechanism is based on the mobilization of the patient’s own immune cells, which will lead to the killing of the cancer cells. In addition, this technology trains the patient’s immune system to memorize this acquired ability in order to fight against the recurring cancer cells, resulting in a durable and effective control of the cancer.

LuminaCare Solutions - David Howe Ph.D.

LuminaCare Solutions is a Healthcare IT Company focused on patient data for optimization of clinical trials. LuminaCare’s lead technology is a platform that integrates patient characteristics, clinical data, and testing algorithms to provide personalized dosing for patients to maintain efficacy while reducing side effects. By repurposing technology that is currently being used to determine efficacious doses for the overall population from clinical trials, LuminaCare Solutions is able to determine an optimal does for a patient using a simple, minimally invasive test.

AblaCor Medical Corporation - Martin Sklar, M.S.

AblaCor Medical Corporation (www.ablacor.com) is a medical device company that is developing a revolutionary ablation product called the CircumBlator™ PVI Ablation System for the treatment of patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib). The CircumBlator’s comprehensive solution will provide safer, shorter, easier-to-perform, and more effective catheter ablation procedures. Unique from ablation devices on the market or in development, the CircumBlator technology will afford enhanced tissue contact and feedback. AblaCor believes the significant value the CircumBlator will bring to patients and physicians will be a mainstream, first-line treatment for AFib.

Each of these entrepreneurs is working with a team of mentors and an MBA student with expertise that fits their needs. The mentors and entrepreneurs will meet several times over the next two months to collaborate on a business plan for the proposed new technology or platform. The program culminates with entrepreneurs making their first pitch to a small group of venture capitalists and other possible investors. To date, approximately 12% of MassCONNECT graduates have received funding following their graduation from the program.

MassCONNECT is open to opportunities that involve the development of a new technologies, products, services, applications, or processes in the life sciences area. Typically, these will include new diagnostic tests, pre-clinical therapeutic molecules, platform technologies, and/or instrumentation.

For more information, or to apply to be a mentor, mentee, or MBA intern, visit http://www.massbio.org/innovation/massconnect.

2013 MassBio Annual Meeting Addresses the Business of Science

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST

The 2013 MassBio AnnualMeeting will be held March 14-15 atthe Royal Sonesta. Themed “The Business of Science,” the event will focus on the most timely and critical challenges facing the Massachusetts biotechnology industry today.

FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg will deliver the keynote address. A graduate of Harvard Medical School, Hamburg became the 21st commissioner of food and drugs in 2009. She is committed to strengthening programs and policies that enable the agency to carry out its mission to protect and promote the public health.

Through a series of presentations, panel discussions, interactive working sessions and extensive networking opportunities, the goals of the annual meeting are to discuss and debate the most relevant science and business topics driving industry’s innovation challenges; promote collaboration with industry scientists, CSOs and other life sciences leaders to enhance scientific and business understanding, augment deal flow and connections; forge new scientific and business relationships; and build the network of up-and-coming academic scientists.

Conference-wide panels will focus on overcoming barriers in translational drug development and the challenges and opportunities in research resource-sharing. Breakout session topics in the science track will focus on oncology, personalized medicine and companion diagnostics, neurodegenerative diseases, RNA therapeutics and antibody drug conjugates. The business track will include sessions on healthcare reimbursement strategies, rare disease therapies, antibiotics from a business perspective and the future of biosimilars.

Throughout the meeting and during the reception, posters will be on display to present data on groundbreaking discoveries, or on translational research that could lead to industry collaboration. MassBio Dollars will be distributed to attendees who can “invest” in the best science they see. The deadline to apply for poster presentations is February 14.

Sponsorship opportunities arealso available. Contact Elizabeth Steele at 617-674-5100 or
Elizabeth.Steele@massbio.org for more information.

2nd Annual MA CRO/CMO Symposium

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST

The second annual MA CRO/CMO Symposium, taking place Monday, Feb. 25 at the Boston Marriott in Newton, will shine a spotlight on the strength and success of the CRO and CMO communities in the Commonwealth.

The goal of the symposium is to bring together the biophamaceutical industry and the Massachusetts CRO/CMO cluster – which provides the scientific external resources required to support a virtual and semi-virtual company from conception through commercialization – and showcase the roles these types of partnerships are playing in accelerating drug development.

The event will allow attendees to evaluate the best alternatives that have evolved in shortening time to market. A series of case studies, interactive panel discussions and networking sessions will provide ample time to explore the various techniques and approaches being used by both virtual and established companies.

Keynote speakers will be Jose-Maria Fernandez, a researcher at the MIT Sloan Laboratory for Financial Engineering, and Janice Bourque, the managing director of Life Sciences at Hercules Technology Growth Capital – a specialty finance company providing secured loans and equity financing solutions to venture capital and private equity firms, and small-cap public life science companies at all stages of development. The company has committed $2.9 billion to more than 200 life science, technology and clean tech companies.

Bourque has more than 25 years of life science experience and focuses on emerging growth-stage life science companies. Before joining Hercules in 2010, Bourque provided strategic corporate investor fundraising for Commons Capital and Oxford Bioscience Partners to create a global health fund focused on innovative healthcare investments for emerging and developing countries. She also was senior vice president and group head-life sciences for Comerica Bank for four years and served as MassBio’s president & CEO for 12 years. She has been named one of Boston Magazine’s 100 most influential women and Newton Living’s 10 most influential women. She also serves as Emeritus Director of the MIT Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research.

Fernandez’s recent work has focused on the creation of new models to finance scientific research. More specifically, along with Professor Andrew Lo and Dr. Roger Stein, he has applied the principles of structured finance and portfolio theory to design a new type of biomedical investment vehicle
that issues research based obligations to finance the development of new cures for cancer. Prior to his work at MIT, he worked in debt capital markets for more than 10 years.

An exhibition area will connect attendees with companies that offer services from research to commercial manufacturing. The event will conclude with a networking reception.

For more information, contact Elizabeth Steele at 617-674-5100 or elizabeth.steele@massbio.org.

Focus on Biosimilars: 2013 Policy Leadership Breakfast Recap

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST

The introduction of biosimilars into clinical practice has become an increasingly hot topic, presenting new challenges that have not historically been present with small molecule generic medicines. In a lively panel discussion at MassBio’s 2013 Policy Leadership Breakfast, industry experts examined the role of biosimilars and the necessity for implementing sound public policies to ensure their safe and effective use.

Panelists included Dr. David Charles, Chairman of the Alliance for Patient Access and Chief Medical Officer at Vanderbilt University Clinical Neurosciences Institute; Professor William S. Hancock, Bradstreet Chair in Bioanalytical Chemistry, Barnett Institute of Chemical and Biological Analysis at Northeastern University; Fritz Bittenbender, BIO Vice President of Alliance Development/State Government Affairs; and Susan Nesci, Patient Advocate and Vice President of Public Policy & Advocacy of the Arthritis Foundation.

“It’s one of the hardest conversations as a health educator,” said Nesci. “Right now there’s no one-size-fitsall model. It’s trial-and-error with each patient. In a study last year, most patients stay on biologics for two years. We don’t want cheaper products that carry health risks. We want to see clear differences in the names of the products and patient providers should be notified if there is any change.”

Under the Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act, a biological product may be demonstrated to be biosimilar if data show that, among other things, the product is highly similar to an already-approved biological product.

“As a dad, the idea of taking a generic drug – a pill – is one thing, but to inject a biologic is another,” said MassBio President & CEO Robert K. Coughlin, who moderated the panel. “Is it safe? And if there is a switch, it should be guaranteed that the physician is involved and the patient is involved, and that there’s some oversight and accountability.”

Bittenbender expounded on the fact that for biologics, the product is the process. Manufactured using living organisms, biologics are different and far more complex than most small molecule chemical drugs. Because the finished product cannot be fully characterized in the laboratory, manufacturers must ensure product consistency, quality and purity by making certain that the manufacturing process remains substantially the same over time. By contrast, a drug manufacturer can change the manufacturing process extensively and analyze the finished product to establish that it is the same as before the manufacturing change.

“The products are safe, but you want to know exactly what is being administered because a biosimilar may react differently in a person’s body,” said Bittenbender.

Because it is up to individual states to craft public policy around the approval of biosimilars, BIO has taken an active role in communicating with state lawmakers, making sure they are responsibly informed about the need to protect patient safety and preserve incentives to innovate.

“We’ve worked hard to develop principals for state policy discussions, focusing on access in the marketplace and patient safety,” said Bittenbender. “Patients need to be notified when they’re receiving a different product, and physicians need to be notified if a patient is receiving something other than what they prescribed. There also needs to be an increased standard for record-keeping at pharmacies.”

His fellow panelists agreed, and some called for even more accountability.

“Just receiving a notification is not acceptable” said Charles. “It should be a request – one that still engages the provider and patient in the decision process.”

While the debate regarding biosimilars will certainly carry on, one thing is certain – the availability of the products will continue to grow, affecting the treatment path of those with serious and life-threatening illnesses, such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, diabetes and HIV/AIDS, as well as many rare diseases.

“Thirty years ago, the first biologic came on the market, and today, they’re here to stay,” said Bittenbender. “Companies are absolutely going to make biosimilars, so this conversation is only going to take on more importance.”

The Policy Leadership Breakfast has become a must-attend annual event for policy makers, biotechnology, life sciences, healthcare and business leaders, and other key stakeholders. This year’s event was held on Jan. 23 at the Langham Hotel and attracted 220 attendees.

“As we enter a new legislative session, we are in the midst of some very, very significant changes,” said MassBio Board Chairman Geoff MacKay, who is President and CEO of Organogenesis Inc. “We are working with a federal government facing tremendous budget restraints, but committed to making healthcare accessible to all. This industry needs to have a voice among the new councils and committees forming and I implore you to join the conversation.”

To kick off the breakfast, MacKay was joined by Coughlin, who highlighted strengths of the Massachusetts biopharma industry, with industry employment reaching an all-time high, accounting for more than $6 billion in payroll and more than 1,000 drug candidates in development. Coughlin also presented Senate President Therese Murray with the MassBio Legislator of the Year Award for her efforts to foster innovation, forge global partnerships and enhance patient access.

“We need to keep working, building on the foundation we’ve put in place, and we have to continue to market the Commonwealth,” said Murray, who recently created the Northern Ireland Massachusetts Connection (NIMAC), a group dedicated to advancing business, research and clinical collaboration among Massachusetts, Northern Ireland and Europe.

“One thing is clear,” Murray continued. “Small connections make a very big impact. I’m committed to making these connections and ensuring that Massachusetts continues to be viewed as the leader in this industry.”

Throughout her career, Murray has been a driving force behind children’s health issues and health care reform efforts, and helped pass landmark legislation including Children’s Mental Health and the Health Care Reform Act of 2006. Last legislative session, she led an effort to allow patients to take advantage of rebates and discount programs made available to companies who manufacture complex and life-changing biologics. The Senate also passed minor changes to the Sales and Marketing disclosure law—also known as the gift ban— which brought it more in line with the federal law. Furthermore, she shepherded health care cost containment legislation through the process, resulting in Chapter 224, which is now in its implementation stage.

“We applaud Senate President Murray for her commitment to patients and ensuring that all aspects of health care, including the breakthrough therapies being researched, developed and manufactured right here in Massachusetts are available to the citizens that need them most,” said Coughlin.

Q&A With Mary Dunkle, Vice President for Communications at NORD (National Organization for Rare Disorders)

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST

What is Rare Disease Day? How has the day helped advance advocacy efforts for rare diseases?

Rare Disease Day is an international awareness day to bring widespread recognition of rare diseases as a global public health challenge. The day is celebrated on the last day of February every year. In 2013, it will be observed on Feb. 28.

Can you tell us a little bit about Rare Disease Day’s history and the Orphan Drug Act?

Rare Disease Day was established in Europe by 2008 by the European Organisation for Rare Diseases (EURORDIS). The following year, EURORDIS asked NORD to establish and sponsor it in the U.S. Since then, it has spread worldwide, and last year, Rare Disease Day was observed in more than 60 countries. Each country has a national sponsor, and the sponsors meet beforehand each year to plan an annual theme, shared messages and other activities so that people are celebrating in similar ways all around the world. This year’s observance of Rare Disease Day will have special significance in the U.S. because 2013 marks the 30th anniversary of the Orphan Drug Act. This is a law, enacted in 1983, that provides financial incentives that make it possible for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to make the necessary investment to develop products for small patient populations. Those incentives include, for instance, seven years of marketing exclusivity if a product is approved as an orphan.

What is the meaning behind this year’s theme “Rare Disorders Without Borders”?

The theme was selected by the global planning committee, and the intention is to demonstrate global solidarity of the rare disease community. We feel that it’s very important to have people all over the world promoting the same theme and messages each year. One of NORD’s consistent messages to our members is: Alone we are rare. Together we are strong. The same is true for the global rare disease community.

What opportunities are available for life sciences companies interested in getting involved?

Rare Disease Day celebrates the partnership among patient organizations, life sciences companies, academic researchers, practicing clinicians, NIH, FDA and all the other rare disease/orphan product stakeholders. We all share the same end goal — safe, effective treatments and cures for patients. Many companies will host events for their employees, and NORD is providing some resources such as a video from our president thanking company employees for the work they do on behalf of patients. Also, this year we are promoting State House events in other states, similar to the one MassBio co-hosts. Life sciences companies in those states may want to be involved in those events. The states where events are currently being organized are California, Connecticut, New Jersey and Texas, in addition to Massachusetts. Companies may also want to send out press releases in support of the day, and NORD is happy to make a press kit and/or sample release available for that purpose. We also have some pins, wristbands and notepads to make available to those hosting events.

How can individuals get involved in the day?

On the national website — RareDiseaseDay.US — we have posted suggestions for individuals. For instance, we have created suggestions for bringing Rare Disease Day into the classroom with elementary, middle school and high school students. We encourage teachers to use these resources and parents to make their children’s teachers aware of them. We also have a “Handprints Across America” photo gallery on the website where people can download a free flier with the Rare Disease Day logo and submit a photo of themselves holding it. We have some great photos already. And we’ll have a 24-hour advocacy campaign on Rare Disease Day through which individuals will be able to write to their elected officials. Individuals are planning special events in communities across the U.S. We’ll be posting those on the national website so that people can see if there is an event planned in their community.

MassBio will host a Rare Disease Day event at the State House

on Feb. 28 at 2 p.m. All are welcome — no registration

required. Visit www.massbio.org for more information.

MassBioEd Receives $250,000 Grant to Bring BioTeach to New Schools

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST

February 7, 2013 (Cambridge, MA) — The MassBioEd Foundation will expand its proven biotech education program, BioTeach, to eight new public high schools this year, thanks to a grant from the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC).

MassBioEd will use the $250,000 from the MLSC’s Equipment and Supplies for Skills Training and Education Program to provide schools with professional development for teachers, curriculum for three biotech labs, and up to $16,000 for materials and equipment for school labs.

“The life sciences sector is critical to the Commonwealth’s economy and MassBioEd is excited to expand our BioTeach program this year to expose more students to the field,” said Lance Hartford, Executive Director of the MassBioEd Foundation. “By providing Massachusetts students with lab experiences in high schools across the state, we hope to inspire students to pursue educational opportunities and careers in the life sciences and biotechnology industry.”

“We at the Center are pleased to fund organizations like MassBioEd that enable schools across the Commonwealth to purchase top-of-the-line equipment, enhancing life sciences education for the next generation of our workforce,” said Susan Windham-Bannister, Ph.D., President & CEO of the MLSC, the agency charged with implementing Governor Patrick’s 10-year, $1 billion Life Sciences Initiative. “Life sciences companies continue to cite talent as a key reason for locating and growing their businesses in Massachusetts. MassBioEd’s programs are helping to train the workforce that will keep our life sciences industry strong in Massachusetts for generations to come.”

In February, teachers from the newly awarded school sites will receive professional training on the BioTeach labs and curriculum. The interactive labs are designed to pique student interest by exploring the opportunities in biotechnology.

Eight of the 15 schools participating in BioTeach through this grant are brand new to the program, bringing the total number of participating public schools in Massachusetts to 185. New schools include:

Bay Path Regional Vocational Technical High School
Barnstable High School
Fitchburg High School
Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical
Haverhill High School
Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational Technical School
Taunton High School

MassBioEd is one of 31 schools and programs to receive an award through the second round of the MLSC’s matching grant program, which totaled $3.2 million to support the purchase of life sciences training equipment and supplies at vocational technical schools and public high schools in Massachusetts' Gateway Cities, and workforce training programs across the state.

Learn more about MassBioEd and BioTeach at massbioed.org.

About the MassBioEd Foundation

http://www.massbioed.org

The Massachusetts Biotechnology Education Foundation (MassBioEd), founded in 2001, is a nonprofit charitable organization committed to supporting science and biotechnology education in Massachusetts through school programs, workforce training, and lifelong learning. Serving as a link between education, industry, and government, MassBioEd is working to ensure Massachusetts’ biotechnology sector, has an appropriately trained work force to meet the growing employment needs. MassBioEd’s BioTeach program provides professional development to over 500 teachers in their biotechnology curricula and provides grants and lab equipment to 185 schools across the Commonwealth. In addition, MassBioEd’s Biotech Learning Center offers professional development courses for employees in the biotech sector to advance their professional skills.

Inserm Transfert and MassBio announce a partnership to foster innovation, technology transfer and entrepreneurship between France and Massachusetts (USA)

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST

February 6, 2013, Paris (France) and Cambridge, Massachusetts (USA) – Today Inserm Transfert and MassBio announced a partnership aimed at facilitating scientific and commercial interactions between research laboratories and R&D companies in the field of Life Sciences both at Inserm in France and in Massachusetts.

Inserm Transfert will join MassBio programs such as MassCONNECT and the MassBio Innovation Exchange. Conversely MassBio members will have the opportunity to attend events sponsored or promoted by Inserm Transfert in France. The overall goal is to promote scientific collaborations and facilitate the translation of early stage innovation into commercial products for the benefit of patients.

The partnership was spearheaded by Dr. Bernard Malfroy-Camine, a French American biotech entrepreneur, formerly Inserm researcher and a Massachusetts resident for over two decades, who advises Inserm Transfert for US partnerships.

“When it comes to science and innovation, we believe it is extremely important to think international. Pairing our efforts with Massachussetts’ long standing track record in technology transfer was thus a tremendous opportunity, both for our scientists and our young companies” commented Cécile Tharaud, CEO, Inserm Transfert.

“Our new partnership with Inserm Transfert, developed through our Global Gateways initiative, will bring the vibrant clusters of innovation in Massachusetts and France together,” said Robert K. Coughlin, President & CEO of MassBio. “We are pleased to offer our members opportunities for collaborations and partnerships with top-notch early-stage companies from France as we continue to build the global life sciences network.”

###

About Inserm Transfert
Founded in 2000, InsermTransfert SA is the private subsidiary of the French National Institute of the Health and Medical Research (Inserm), dedicated to technology transfer (from invention disclosure to industrial partnership). InsermTransfert also manages European and International research projects, supports large scale projects in epidemiology and public health. Inserm Transfert runs a 2M€/year proof of concept fund. The company also supports entrepreneurs in the biotech sector, in partnership with Inserm Transfert Initiative, a € 39.7m life sciences seed investment company.
www.inserm-transfert.fr

About MassBio
http://www.massbio.org
MassBio, a not-for-profit organization that represents and provides services and support for the Massachusetts biotechnology industry, is the nation's oldest biotechnology trade association. Founded in 1985, MassBio is committed to advancing the development of critical new science, technology and medicines that benefit people worldwide. Representing over 600 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, research hospitals, and service organizations involved in life sciences and health care, MassBio works to advance policy and promote education, while providing member programs and events, industry information, and services.

MassBioEd Update: New Year, New Courses, New Instructors!

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST

MassBioEd is offering new courses in 2013 to meet the needs of MassBio members and the ever-evolving life sciences industry.

Biopharmaceutical Business & Corporate Development Executive Training

This two-day course will feature sessions on important business development topics and best practices with seasoned business professionals and Katrine Bosley, one of FierceBiotech’s “Top 10 Women in Biotech” in 2012, will be the seminar’s keynote speaker.

"Sell-side business development is the lifeblood of biotech yet there has never been a standardized way of practicing the art. Our course on best practices is practical from not just the strategic but also the tactics of successful deal making."

-Geoff Meyerson, Course Instructor, Co-Founder of Locust Walk Partners

Dates: Tuesday March 12 & Wednesday March 13
Times: 7:30 AM-7:30 PM/ 8:00 AM-4:30 PM
Cost: $1495 for MassBio Members; $1995 for non-members.

Cross-Cultural Biotech Presentation Skills

This seminar program will include two half-days and will provide interactive workshops around communication styles, perception and persuasion, cross-cultural communications, and public speaking.

“Science is a universal language but when you’re presenting to a cross cultural audience, it can easily get lost in translation. This course provides practical tips for anyone who works in the global biotech industry or is a non-native English speaker.”

- Kellyanne Dignan, Course Instructor, Associate VP of Rasky Baerlein Strategic Communications Inc.

Dates: Wednesday Feb 27 & Wednesday March 6
Times: 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Cost: $1295 MassBio Members; $1445 non-members

Biotech 101

This course, designed especially for non-scientists in the industry, will cover the basic science, techniques, applications, terminology, and issues in the biotech industry today.

“Whether you’re new to biotech, or haven’t taken a science class in a while, Biotech 101 will give you the background, and basic understanding of the “language” of Biotech.”

–Masha Hareli, Course Instructor

Dates: Thursday Feb 28 & Friday March 1
Times: 9:00 AM-4:30 PM
Cost: $1095 MassBio Members; $1245 non-members

Life Science Leadership & Management

This two day seminar program will teach scientists the leadership and management skills needed to take their careers to the next level. The course will be highly interactive and will involve small-group discussions of case studies using examples that are specific and relevant to the life sciences.

“As soon as a group of people must work together to achieve a goal, then management and leadership skills become important in ensuring they are as productive and effective as possible.”

- Dr. Gwen Acton, Course Instructor, CEO of Vivo Group

Dates: Wednesday March 13 & 20
Times: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Cost: $1395 MassBio Members; $1545 non-members

All programs will be held at the MassBio Offices, 300 Technology Square 8^th Floor, Cambridge, MA. To view a full course listing and to register, visit www.massbioed.org/courses.

If your company has 50 or fewer employees you may be eligible to receive up to 50% reimbursement for the cost of training under the state's Workforce Training Fund Express Grant Program.

Contact courses@massbio.org to learn more.

Greater Boston Life Sciences Outlook Report

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST

Jones Lang LaSalle's Greater Boston Life Sciences Outlook Report complements the annual Global Life Sciences Cluster Report, while taking a closer look into what drives the local biopharma market. It explores market dynamics in East Cambridge, the Suburbs, as well as in the Seaport District and the Longwood Medical Area.

Download here.

http://www.us.am.joneslanglasalle.com/UnitedStates/EN-US/Pages/ResearchDetails.aspx?ItemID=10407

2013 Futures in Life Sciences Program

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST

Propel Careers, MassBio, and MassBioEd, have just announced the Futures in Life Sciences (FILS) Series dates for 2013:

2013 Schedule of Events

January 15th: Overview of Life Sciences Career Paths
February 19th: Consulting Career Paths Event
March 19th: Commercialization 1 (Marketing, Product Management, Business Development) Career Paths Event
April 16th: Research and Development Career Paths
May 21st: Clinical Development, Regulatory, and Medical Affairs Career Paths
September 17th: Bio-Informatics, Modeling and Systems Biology Career Paths
October 15th: Commercilization 2 (Reimbursment, Pharmacoeconomics, Patient Advocacy, and Market Access) Career Paths
November 12th: Finance, Legal, Operations Career Paths

About the Futures in Life Sciences Series

The Futures in Life Science (FILS) Seminar Series is a year-long event series, created in 2011 by Propel Careers, MassBio, and MassBioEd, to promote the variety of career paths ranging from research and development to marketing and commercialization that exist in the Massachusetts Life Sciences Industry for individuals with graduate degrees.

The Futures in Life Sciences Series is designed to:

Provide a comprehensive understanding of the aptitudes and work environments that are associated with specific career paths, so that the individuals who attend these events can make more informed career decisions.
Give participants the opportunity to build their network through establishing connections with the presenters and other attendees and develop relationships that will further their professional careers.

Futures in Life Sciences focuses on the various functional areas in the life sciences sector including R&D, Commercial, Business Development, Finance, Bioinformatics, Reimbursement, & Legal.

Each event has a panel discussion comprised of industry leaders who provide an overview of the life sciences landscape and various career opportunities that exist in the industry. Each session also features time for open networking.

Attendance for the Futures in Life Sciences program is open to current graduate students, post doctoral fellows, and medical residents who are interested in careers in the life sciences industry. Registration is now open for the January, February, and March events.

Learn more about the program at http://www.propelcareers.com/index.cfm/events/

MassBio Committees to Relaunch in 2013

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST

At MassBio, we strive for excellence in meeting the varied needs of our diverse and vibrant community by providing the best, timeliest, most forward-looking and forward-thinking programming possible. The industry is changing, and at MassBio, we are committed to evolving to continue to meet industry needs. To this end, we have undertaken an effort to re-energize and revamp the existing Committee structure.

The Committees were chartered years ago to provide members with an extraordinary opportunity to build networks and develop business relationships while learning from industry experts and participating in thought-provoking conversations. And they are only possible with broad and dynamic participation from our best asset—members like you.

With the help of a Restructuring Steering Committee comprised of volunteers from a broad spectrum of the membership, we have derived a new structure which we feel will better meet the needs of our membership, and more accurately reflect the industry. The Committees will be driven more by content and less by industry niche or job function. They will be guided by a new advisory board tasked with defining the themes and topic priorities for MassBio programs in 2013. (Read more about the Advisory Board.)

The changes are outlined below:

Our current roster of 16 Committees will be consolidated into 10 disciplines. This will allow for more efficient program management, broader coverage of subject material and collaboration among the Committees to provide greater value to the MassBio community. You can find the new descriptions here.

Each new Committee will have at least three Co-Chairs to be appointed by MassBio via an application process open to the entire MassBio community. The Co-Chair positions will have a term limit of two years to allow for greater participation by members.

“Committee Meetings” will now be called “Forums”—a term which more accurately represents the format of these presentations, and that these meetings are open to the entire MassBio membership regardless of participation.

We now turn to you to help us make this process a success. We are seeking volunteer Co-Chairs for all 10 Committees. If you’ve ever considered greater involvement and contribution to our community, now is your chance; consider applying for a Co-Chair position. Take a look at the Co-Chair Roles & Responsibilities, and if you are interested in applying for the position, fill out the application and return to membership@massbio.org by January 14, 2013.

We are also looking for ideas for our 2013 program agenda. What keeps you up at night? What topics are critical to your or your organization’s success? Who are you dying to hear from? Please fill out this survey and let us know what is most important to you, what you would like to learn and hear in the coming year.

We are excited to shake things up a bit, and your participation and suggestions will help us achieve the programming excellence you rely on. Thank you for your continued support of MassBio.

Four Massachusetts Communities Are BioReady®

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST

Abington, Middleborough, & West Boylston earn ratings from biotech industry

Hopkinton improves rating

December 18, 2012 (Cambridge, MA)—Four Massachusetts communities have new BioReady® ratings signifying their readiness to work with biotechnology companies interested in locating there.

Based on a survey of their zoning bylaws, building codes and other business and industry-related criteria, West Boylston received a Silver rating and Abington and Middleborough received Bronze ratings.

Additionally, Hopkinton, a former Bronze-rated community, has been upgraded to a Gold rating by amending their by-laws to allow biotechnology uses “by right” rather than by “special permit.”

“We are pleased to welcome Abington, Middleborough, and West Boylston into the ranks of the other BioReady® communities and thrilled to see Hopkinton increase their BioReadiness®,” said MassBio President & CEO Robert K. Coughlin. “These communities should be applauded for their commitment to biotech and their roles in facilitating innovation and sustaining Massachusetts’ position as an industry leader.”

"The Town of Abington is pleased to receive the bronze status from MassBio and looks forward to working cooperatively with the council in attracting new and emerging biotechnology businesses to the Route 18 Corridor in Abington, MA," said John D'Agostino, Abington’s Town Manager.

"Middleborough is pleased to be recognized as a BioReady community. Strategically located on Interstate 495 at the intersections of Routes 44, 18 and 28, Middleborough is in the "middle" of the Boston-Providence-Cape Cod region, and enjoys commuter rail access to downtown Boston,” said Ruth Geoffroy, Middleborough’s Planning Director. “The Town has innovatively zoned for biotech and industrial uses with the necessary infrastructure to accommodate up to 4 million square feet of industrial/corporate park development and currently hosts a number of biotech manufacturing firms including Idex, Inc. and Brookfield Engineering.”

"This upgrade to BioReady Gold status reflects the continuing efforts in Hopkinton to attract top businesses to our town" said Ben Palleiko, Chairman of the Hopkinton Board of Selectmen. "I want to thank MassBio and all of the town staff and boards for their hard work and commitment in making Hopkinton a premier environment for the biotechnology industry. The Town of Hopkinton is ready to work with all interested businesses."

MassBio and partner organizations across the state began the statewide BioReady® Communities Campaign in 2008 in order to provide background to municipal officials about the biotech industry and offer guidance on how to position municipalities as destinations for biotech laboratory and manufacturing facilities. To date, there are 72 BioReady® rated communities in the state.

Communities are ranked on a scale of bronze, silver, gold or platinum, and the system helps Massachusetts cities and towns market themselves to biotechnology companies looking to expand or relocate. As part of the campaign, the MassBio Economic Development Advisory Group (EDAG) developed criteria to both guide communities in their pursuit of biotech facility opportunities and rate them for BioReadiness® in order to provide each with a tangible marketing tool.

To view full ratings criteria, go to the MassBio’s BioReady® Communities Web page at http://www.massbio.org/economic_development/bioready_communities

MassBio names industry leader John Hallinan new Chief Business Officer

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST

MassBio names industry leader John Hallinan new Chief Business Officer

New Vice President of Member Services, Director of Sales & Business Development also elevated

MassBio, the premier life sciences trade association representing more than 600 biotech companies, research institutions and other industry stakeholders, has announced that John Hallinan will be the new Chief Business Officer, overseeing the MassBio Innovation Services programs.

Hallinan’s fiscal experience in the life sciences and software industries reflect positions of increasing responsibility across a broad range of strategic and operational disciplines. Hallinan’s background encompasses venture financings, corporate development, technology licensing, and mergers and acquisitions.

“We are thrilled to welcome John, particularly as we look to take Innovation Services—the programs we’ve created to jumpstart technology transfer and entrepreneurism in life sciences—to the next level,” said Robert K. Coughlin, MassBio President & CEO. “He has provided his expertise as a volunteer for years, and we look forward to further harnessing his talents as a member of the team.”

Hallinan joins MassBio from Cytel, where he was Chief Financial Officer. He has been active with MassBio—serving on the Economic Development Advisory Group, and as co-chair of the Finance Committee & Entrepreneur’s University. Hallinan holds a BBA from St. Bonaventure University and is a certified public accountant.

Also announced, Kendalle Burlin O’Connell will be the new Vice President of Member Services. O’Connell will also retain her title of In-House Counsel for the organization.

O’Connell first came to MassBio in 2008 as Director of the Purchasing Consortium and was named Director of Strategic Alliances last year. She has grown the offerings of the MassBio Purchasing Consortium by adding new supplier agreements and increasing the value of existing agreements through building valuable partnerships with the supplier companies. Beyond continuing to oversee MassBio’s Purchasing Consortium, O’Connell will be responsible for member programs, outreach and engagement, as well as new member development.

“Kendalle has been an invaluable member of the team here at MassBio and I am excited that she will now bring her skills to bear on the core membership programs and engagement we rely on,” Coughlin said.

Prior to joining MassBio, O’Connell practiced law in the areas of Estate and Medicaid Planning, Probate and Asset Protection, and Labor and Employment Law. She holds a B.A. from Sacred Heart University and a Juris Doctor from Suffolk University Law School. She resides in Georgetown, Mass., with her husband, Steve.

Finally, Jon Allard was promoted to the position of Director of Sales & Business Development for MassBio. Allard has been at the organization for three years and is responsible for membership sales and the implementation of a comprehensive marketing strategy. Prior to joining MassBio, Jon was a Marketing Specialist with Boston Globe Media. He holds a B.A. from Florida State University and lives in Belmont with his wife, Kate Marie.

451 Marketing Helps Secure a Gold Award for Massachusetts Biotechnology Council

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST

Leading Boston Communications Agency’s Creative Strategy Helps MassBio Earn Recognition

451 Marketing was recently honored with a MarCom Award for their work on behalf of their client, The Massachusetts Biotechnology Council (MassBio). The creative team was awarded Gold for Trade Show Exhibit Design for creative development and execution of the Massachusetts Lifecycle Pavilion at the 2012 BIO International Convention. The pavilion touched on various aspects of the biotech industry in Massachusetts using a visual multimedia presentation of statistics and information about academics, research, drug development, drug manufacturing, and government support.

“We are thrilled that what began as a real leap of faith—reimagining a longstanding tradition of display space and exhibition of Massachusetts companies at the BIO International Convention—was so well received leading up to and at the show,” said Robert K. Coughlin, President & CEO of MassBio. “We thank our partners at 451 Marketing for their inspired vision, and our sponsors for taking a risk and investing in a new way of telling the Massachusetts life sciences story.”

The pavilion hosted 16,505 total attendees and 30 partner meetings in addition to the multiple meetings taking place informally throughout the event. 451’s collaboration engaged visitors, attracting high-level decision makers, and was recognized as a main attraction at the event. The entire project, a 7,700 square foot pavilion, was completed in less than six months.

“Representing the depth and breadth of the bio tech industry in Massachusetts was an exciting challenge,” said Glen Hawkins, 451 Marketing creative director. “We were fortunate to partner with some of the top biotech companies in the world to tell the Massachusetts story. We're looking to working with MassBio on BIO 2013 in Chicago.”

451 Marketing will continue their work with MassBio in the upcoming year, collaborating on the design and execution of their presentation for the 2013 BIO International Convention.

About 451 Marketing

451 Marketing is an award-winning communications agency that specializes in public relations, social media marketing and search marketing. Headquartered in Boston and representing Los Angeles, New York, San Diego, and Las Vegas, 451 Marketing works with brands to build awareness, engage customers, create fan loyalty, and drive business through a cutting-edge integrated communications approach. For more information, visit www.451marketing.com

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For First-Time Entrepreneurs, Knowledge Makes or Breaks the Business

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST

Pepper Hamilton and MassBio present Biotechnology Entrepreneurship Boot Camp

Boston, MA — November 27, 2012 — More than 65 percent of businesses fail. In order for first-time entrepreneurs to transform their start-ups into viable companies, they must understand all components of the start-up process, from market analysis to securing capital and hiring the right talent.

In order to assist the scientific and academic community in filling the knowledge gap, Pepper Hamilton and MassBio are sponsoring a one-day boot camp featuring speakers from successful start-up companies as well as Pepper Hamilton attorneys Lana Gladstein, Steve London and Greg Williams. Topics will include:

Assessment and qualifications of technologies to be considered a start-up
How to develop an effective IP strategy
Understanding the requirements of all involved stakeholders
How to oversee the essential components of the capital raising and commercialization process

The Biotechnology Entrepreneurship Boot Camp will take place on Friday, November 30, 2012 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at MassBio (300 Technology Square, 8^th Floor, Cambridge, MA).

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About Pepper Hamilton
Pepper Hamilton LLP (www.pepperlaw.com) is a multi-practice law firm with more than 500 lawyers nationally. The firm provides corporate, litigation and regulatory legal services to leading businesses, governmental entities, nonprofit organizations and individuals throughout the nation and the world. The firm was founded in 1890.

About MassBio
MassBio (www.massbio.org), a not-for-profit organization that represents and provides services and support for the Massachusetts biotechnology industry, is the nation's oldest biotechnology trade association. Founded in 1985, MassBio is committed to advancing the development of critical new science, technology and medicines that benefit people worldwide. Representing over 600 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, research hospitals, and service organizations involved in life sciences and health care, MassBio works to advance policy and promote education, while providing member programs and events, industry information, and services.

MassBio Partners with Allsteel

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST

Members save on award-winning workplace furniture

November 28, 2012 (CAMBRIDGE, MA) – MassBio members can access award-winning workplace furniture through a new partnership with Allsteel Inc., MassBio announced today.

“As MassBio prepared for our office relocation in the beginning of 2012 we were immediately impressed by the quality of products and service that Allsteel had to offer. We are very pleased with the aesthetics and functionality of our new workspaces,” said Robert K. Coughlin, President & CEO of MassBio. “I am thrilled to partner with the team at Allsteel to offer our members access to high-quality furniture at a discount as they expand their offices and labs.”

In joining the already robust MassBio Purchasing Consortium as the Primary Supplier of Office Furniture, Allsteel offers MassBio members access to high quality workplace furniture at a discount.

The Allsteel/MassBio partnership features tiered discounting on all products with no minimum order, Quick Ship programs, lifetime warranties, LEED certification submission support, local dealer assistance, and more.

The furniture offering includes every product in the Allsteel portfolio, and the program addresses both large projects and the day-to-day smaller purchases, with very deep discounts, and no minimum orders. Seating, workstations, and collaborative products are all part of the program.

“As science and technology advances, so does the need for innovative workspaces. We look forward to working with the life sciences community to build comfortable, state-of-the-art workspaces as companies develop and grow,” said Lynda Whittle, Vice President of Marketing for Allsteel.

Contract highlights are available online at www.massbio.org. For additional information on Allsteel Inc., visit www.allsteeloffice.com or follow Allsteel on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or YouTube.

The MassBio Purchasing Consortium leverages the power of the collective membership to negotiate contracts with vendors that save member companies significant amounts of money. Current consortium contracts include bulk gases, packaged cylinder gases, chemical and biomedical waste removal, lab supplies, video methods journals, office supplies, lab equipment maintenance, travel services, shipping services, and mobile solutions.

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About MassBio
http://www.massbio.org

About Allsteel
http://www.allsteeloffice.com

Allsteel Inc. has been designing, building and delivering award-winning workplace furniture solutions since 1912. As the originator of the lateral file, Allsteel continues its commitment to innovation with its extensive product portfolio. As a dedicated steward of sustainability, Allsteel was the first contract furniture manufacturer to have all products certified either Indoor Advantage or Indoor Advantage Gold by Scientific Certification Systems. The entire product line can contribute to LEED credits. Additionally, Allsteel strives to attain the highest certification level for all that it manufactures. Allsteel Inc, is headquartered in Muscatine, IA, but has Resource Centers in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, New York, San Francisco, Santa Monica and Washington, D.C., as well as in Toronto, Canada.

Massachusetts-Israel Innovation Partnership (MIIP) - Deadline Dec. 7

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST

The Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC) will be providing grants of up to $500,000 to support companies working in the life sciences field through the Massachusetts-Israel Innovation Partnership (MIIP), a formal collaboration between the State of Israel and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

MIIP is currently open and accepting grant applications for the chance to win a minimum grant of $100,000 and a maximum of $500,000 for the Massachusetts company partner in a Mass-Israeli company to company partnership. For more information: http://www.masslifesciences.com/MIIP/index.html

MLSC Cooperative Research Matching Grant Program: Third Round Launched

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST

The Massachusetts Life Sciences Center has launched the third round of our Cooperative Research Matching Grant Program, which is designed to promote industry-academic research collaborations, support translational research and accelerate the commercialization of promising products, and services.

Not-for-profit research institutions are eligible to apply for grant funding of up to $250,000 per year over 2 years, provided that they have secured an industry sponsor for the research which will match funds on a 1:1 basis.

Applicants will be required to clearly identify the opportunity or value proposition for collaborating with the industry sponsor. Proposals should clearly articulate:

the problem to be solved
the benefits of solving this problem
the differences between what is currently available on the market and what this partnership is likely to yield in terms of improved health outcomes, cost efficiencies, enhanced delivery of services, etc.
the project work plan
how responsibility for project completion is shared between the industry and academic partner(s)

For more information, and to apply, please click here

(www.masslifesciences.com/grants/coop.html).

If you have questions about the program after you have reviewed the materials on our website, please send us an e-mail to: coopres@masslifesciences.com.

Human Metabolome Technologies, Inc., (HMT) expands to U.S., opening office in Cambridge, Mass.

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST

Human Metabolome Technologies, Inc. (HMT), the leading developer of capillary electrophoresis mass spectrometry (CE-MS) based metabolomics, today announced the opening of its first U.S. office in Cambridge, Mass. The new office is expected to house up to 20 employees and a laboratory by 2015. HMT is based in Tsuruoka, Japan.

“Cambridge provides the perfect combination of academic and industrial arenas, especially associated with the field of life sciences, food engineering and environmental studies,” said Tsutomu (Tom) Hoshiba, President, HMT America. “HMT provides cutting-edge solutions to life scientists, medical doctors and pharmacologists via our state-of-the-art metabolomics technology based on capillary electrophoresis mass spectrometry (CE-MS), and we believe that Cambridge is the place to be for networking with businesses that will make the most of our solutions.”

The location of the office was based largely on accessibility for globally competitive pharmaceutical companies and research institutions to HMT’s most important metabolome analysis services, CARCINOSCOPE, which was specifically designed for cancer research, and BASIC SCAN for more global, general-purpose metabolomics research, including biomarker discovery and companion diagnostics.

“Thanks to our growth strategy of investing in education, innovation and infrastructure, Massachusetts continues to lead the world in life sciences,” said Governor Deval Patrick. “We welcome HMT to Massachusetts and look forward to working with them to create jobs and opportunities in the Commonwealth.”

“On behalf of the Center, I would like to extend our warmest congratulations to the team at HMT as they open their first U.S. office here in Massachusetts,” said Susan Windham-Bannister, Ph.D., President & CEO of the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, the agency charged with implementing Governor Patrick’s 10-year, $1 billion Life Sciences Initiative. “Massachusetts is a global leader in cancer drug development, and HMT will be an important new addition to our oncology community. We are very excited that HMT has chosen to build its metabolomics technology business here.”

“We welcome HMT to Massachusetts,” said Ken Brown, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Office of International Trade & Investment. “HMT will join a growing roster of life sciences companies from Asia in the Commonwealth and we wish them success.”

“HMT’s decision to grow in Massachusetts highlights the strength of the cluster here in the Commonwealth and speaks to our leadership position in the most cutting-edge oncology research,” said Robert K. Coughlin, President & CEO of MassBio, a 600+ member life sciences trade association. “We’re thrilled to have a growing, global company like HMT build a presence here in the Commonwealth and look forward to working with Tom and his team.”

With its headquarters and laboratory in Tsuruoka, Japan, HMT has been the leading metabolome analysis provider for nine years domestically. HMT also has two sales offices and 50 employees total in Japan.

The new U.S. office is based at:

Human Metabolome Technologies America:1 Kendall Square, Cambridge, MA 021139

About Human Metabolome Technologies, Inc.

Human Metabolome Technologies, Inc., (HMT) is a Japan-based biotechnology company providing capillary electrophoresis mass spectrometry based metabolomics services. HMT’s primary business aims to provide complete solutions for metabolomics research in biomarker discovery, drug design, diagnostic technology and food production.

HMT was founded in July 2003 by Professor Masaru Tomita, Ph.D., Director of the Institute for Advanced Biosciences (IAB), Keio University, Japan, and by IAB’s Professor Tomoyoshi Soga, Ph.D. The company has been awarded government funding from the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization.HMT has also established a number of partnerships, including Agilent Technologies, Inc., Mizkan Group Corporation, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., and Mitsubishi Pharma Corporation in Japan.

HMT America contact:

Tsutotmu Hoshiba

hoshiba@humanmetabolome.com

617-871-9940