Leading life science enterprises from global companies to research institutes and economic development organizations are partnering with Delaware Bio to make Delaware’s DNA the biggest, most valuable event of its kind in state history. There is still time to join sponsors and exhibitors including Adesis, Advant-Edge Solutions, Airgas, ANP Technologies, AstraZeneca, Avantor delivered by VWR, Bancroft Construction Company, Beckman Coulter, Biolog, BioConnect DE, Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), The Bonadio Group, Chestnut Run Innovation & Science Park, ChristianaCare Gene Editing Institute, Chubb, Clean Harbors, Cobalt Communications, Delaware Business Times, Delaware Division of Small Business, Delaware Health Information Network, Delaware Prosperity Partnership, Delaware Technology Park, Frontage Laboratories, Incyte, The Innovation Space, Jackson ImmunoResearch Laboratories, Keen Compressed Gas, LabWare, McCarter & English, MRA Group, Nemours, New York Blood Center Enterprises, NIIMBL, Pharma Resource Group, Prelude Therapeutics, QPS, Richards Layton & Finger, Scheer Partners and Whiting-Turner.

For conference agenda details, information on sponsorship and to purchase tickets, go to: https://www.delawarebio.org/page/2025-delawares-dna-life-science-conference

Details
Date: Thursday, May 8
Time: 9:00 am–6:00 pm
Location: Chase Center on the Riverfront, 815 Justison Street, Wilmington, DE 19801

About Delaware BioScience Association
The Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) is a catalyst for bioscience innovation in Delaware. We serve pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, medical device manufacturers, agricultural biotech and chemical companies, research and testing companies, hospitals and medical institutions, academic partners and other organizations and companies that support them, with the goal of expanding our state’s vibrant science economy. Our more than 180 member companies and organizations are of every size, from global leaders to small start-ups, directly responsible for more than 12,000 innovation-based jobs vital to Delaware’s economic future.

Contact

NEWARK, DE (October 1, 2024) – The state’s leading academic research institution and the organization representing Delaware’s life science industry announced today the appointment of Nicole Merli to a new role designed to spark biotech ecosystem growth through expansion and strengthening of university-business collaboration. 

The role was created and will be jointly funded through an innovative partnership between the University of Delaware and the Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) and enabled through funding support from the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) inaugural Accelerating Research Translation (ART) program to invest in capacity-building resources that enhance research impact.  In the new position, Merli will lead efforts to support the translation of cutting-edge university research into new technologies, products, companies, and commercial opportunities by rich connections between university faculty, students, entrepreneurs, investors and businesses.

Most recently the director of strategic alliances and communications at LumaCyte, a Virginia-based biotechnology company, Merli has extensive experience cultivating industry relationships, translating complex research and facilitating public-private partnerships that spur life science innovation. This includes serving as the associate director of business development, strategic alliances at the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL), a public-private partnership headquartered at the University of Delaware.

Merli’s appointment is the second joint UD-Delaware Bio effort to drive growth for the state’s life science industry. In November 2022, the organizations named Katie Lakofsky to a new role leading bioscience workforce development.

“Strong relationships with industry are vital to the University of Delaware,” said Miguel Garcia-Diaz, vice president for research, scholarship and innovation at UD. “Our industry collaborations help guide the work of our researchers toward translation and use by society, while also shaping our academic programs in ways that better prepare our students for future careers. This joint appointment is another positive outcome of UD’s partnership with Delaware Bio to increase industry engagement in Delaware as a global hub for world-class research, innovation and investment in the life sciences.”

“Anywhere you find a thriving life science ecosystem there is also sublime, effective collaboration between industry and research universities,” said Michael Fleming, president and CEO of Delaware Bio. “We are delighted Nicole will be leading this essential effort for our state. She has the ideal combination of experience, relationships, energy and vision to make an immediate impact and establish new programs and frameworks that will supercharge and sustain our future growth.”

“I am excited by this opportunity to accelerate the growth of Delaware’s thriving life science community,” said Merli. “This is the work I love to do – connect innovative research with real-world applications. There is incredible potential to deepen the university-industry connections already built and position the state as a national leader in translational research and the formation of groundbreaking life science companies through technologies that directly address industry needs and priorities.”

In a comprehensive report jointly issued by the Delaware Prosperity Partnership (DPP) and Delaware Bio, the need to strengthen university-industry collaboration was identified as a key priority for future life science sector growth in the state. Since then, Delaware Bio has devoted significant focus to enhancing academic and research partnerships with member companies, investors and regional economic development organizations. Most recently, the association highlighted multiple UD research institutions at its 2nd annual “Delaware’s DNA: 2024 Life Science Conference” at UD’s Clayton Hall in May.

Merli will engage and partner with UD faculty, staff, research leaders, public officials, and Delaware Bio members, as well as regional industry stakeholders, to develop a comprehensive strategy to catalyze industry-university collaboration at every stage of connection. She will also work closely with Lakofsky to fortify relationships between life science employers and the university.

“The life sciences are a significant driver of Delaware’s current and future economic success. The state’s status as a global hub is a testament to the successful collaboration across industry, higher education and government,” said Kurt Foreman, DPP president and CEO. “Filling this new role is a clear commitment to and a key investment in Delaware’s science and tech economy.” 

“Nicole has deep expertise in developing and fostering productive multi-stakeholder research collaborations. Her industry knowledge will enhance our collective impact in supporting a critical sector for the state’s future,” said Tracy Shickel, associate vice president, corporate engagement at UD and Delaware BioScience Association board member.

Prior to her work at LumaCyte and NIIMBL, Merli was managing director of the Advanced Mammalian Biomanufacturing Innovation Center (AMBIC) at Johns Hopkins University. She was chosen as a Susan Riley Keys Memorial Fellow through the Association of University Technology Mangers (AUTM), a year-long immersion in academic technology transfer topics such as evaluation, protecting and transferring IP from the lab to the marketplace, corporate engagement, start-up and entrepreneurial support, and economic development. Merli has a BA in Economics from Franklin & Marshall College and an MBA from the University of Delaware. She starts in the new role October 1. 

NEWARK (July 17, 2024) – The Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) announced the election of Natalia Rivera-Torres, Ph.D., of ChristianaCare’s Gene Editing Institute and Bruce Sachais, M.D., Ph.D., of the Blood Bank of Delmarva and New York Blood Center Enterprises to its board of directors. 

Natalia Rivera-Torres is a principal investigator and co-leader of translational research within Christiana Care’s Gene Editing Institute. Dr. Rivera-Torres is considered a rising star in the field of human gene editing whose work has led to a fundamental understanding of how gene repair is carried out in human cells. She was a major force in discovering how the natural diversity among patients can modulate the success of gene editing in human cells. She is also credited with the discovery of a process known as ExACT (EXcision And Corrective Therapy), which is currently being developed as a therapeutic modality. She received her BA in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras campus, her MS in Biology from Delaware State University and her Ph.D.  in Medical and Molecular Sciences from the University of Delaware.  She currently holds faculty appointments at the University of Delaware and Mayo Clinic, where she has taught and serves on graduate student thesis committees.

Bruce Sachais is Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer for The New York Blood Center Enterprises, as well as the Medical Director for the Blood Bank of Delmarva.  He also directs the Translational Research and Development Laboratory located in Newark Delaware. He was recently appointed as an Affiliated Professor in the Department of Medical and Molecular Sciences at the University of Delaware and continues to serve on the advisory board for that department. After receiving his BA in Chemistry from Lehigh University, he earned his MD/PhD (Neuroscience) from Washington University in St. Louis.  He completed his clinical pathology residency and his transfusion and apheresis medicine fellowship at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, where he remained as faculty, attaining the rank of Associate Professor before moving to NYBC. He has co-authored over 85 peer-reviewed publications and is a past member of the AABB CTMC.

“Delaware Bio’s continued success supporting our member organizations and growing the life science ecosystem relies on ensuring we bring new, diverse talent and expertise to the Board,” said Chris Yochim, Delaware Bio board chair. “Bruce and Natalia’s expertise in clinical medicine and cutting-edge gene editing and their understanding of the importance of translational medicine will greatly strengthen our ability to support companies, researchers and entrepreneurs developing innovative therapies and technologies that benefit patients and society.”

WILMINGTON, DE (June 14, 2024) – Leading Delaware business, educational and government officials today heralded a comprehensive package of initiatives designed to strengthen the state’s STEM workforce.

The array of new programs and proposals were announced at a gathering of the Delaware Life Science Caucus at EastSide Charter School’s new Chemours STEM Hub. They include:

• Launch of the Delaware Center for Life Science Education and Training. The new organization will serve as a regional catalyst for the next generation of life science talent at every level, partnering with industry, educators and government to address current and future employer needs.  
• A $3 million, three-year pilot program to recruit and train individuals in basic laboratory and advanced and biomanufacturing skills. Key initial funding for the innovative pilot comes from a $2.1 million Congressionally Directed Spending grant supported by US Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons. The three-year pilot also has the support of the state, the Delaware BioScience Association and additional private financial and in-kind support.
• Introduction of the “DE-STAR” Act. The legislation, HB 435, introduced by Reps. Krista Griffith and Mike Smith and Sen. Spiros Mantzavinos, creates the "Delaware STEM Talent Advancement and Retention” program to attract and retain new university graduates with Delaware STEM employers by supporting a portion of their college loan payments. This pilot effort will receive additional state and private funding to support individual credits of up to $6000.  

-Event’s second-year promises to be biggest and best ever

NEWARK, DE (March 1, 2024) – Top national life science industry leaders and the region’s most exciting new companies and research institutions will gather on May 9, 2024, for the second annual Delaware’s DNA: 2024 Life Science Conference.

Hosted by the Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio), the full-day event will feature an unprecedented collection of life science sector executives, investors, new businesses, researchers, and policymakers who will convene for the full-day event at the University of Delaware’s Clayton Hall in Newark, Delaware. This marks Delaware’s DNA’s return following last year’s successful inaugural life science conference.

This year’s program will include rich panel discussions and insightful speakers on topics ranging from technologies transforming biomedical research to the compelling prospects for a regional precision medicine hub to key trends in life science ecosystem development.

The conference will kick off with an in-depth industry assessment from McKinsey Senior Partner Olivier Leclerc. Other panelists and presenters will include IQVIA Chief Digital and Marketing Officer Andrew Ploszay, Aisling Capital Founder Dennis Purcell, National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) Director Kelvin Lee, Institute for Engineering Driven Health Director Jill Higginson, Maryland Tech Council CEO Kelly Schulz and Kathy Wu of the University of Delaware’s Data Science Institute.

“Last year’s first-ever conference made clear that Delaware’s vibrant life science ecosystem is poised for even greater growth,” said Michael Fleming, president of Delaware Bio. “This year’s Delaware’s DNA will demonstrate the increasing breadth, depth and diversity of Delaware’s growing life science ecosystem and serve as an important annual forum to connect researchers, investors and businesses in new ways that will further build on our momentum.”

Innovation and Investor Showcase Powered by The Innovation Space

In partnership with the Innovation Space, an exciting addition to this year’s conference will be an “Innovation and Investor Showcase” featuring presentations from some of the region’s most innovative, fast-growing companies including Prelude Therapeutics, Nikang Therapeutics and Uvax Bio. The Showcase will also include reverse pitches from top life science investors including BioAdvance, Robin Hood Ventures, UD’s University Launch Fund, and The Innovation Space’s First Fund.

“We’re excited to partner with Delaware Bio on this year’s Delaware’s DNA: Life Science Conference,” said Innovation Space CEO Bill Provine. “This is an ideal opportunity to collaborate to showcase some of Delaware and the region’s most impressive early-stage life science businesses and make important connections with the investors who are so critical to their success.”

Why Attend

• This is the only event in Delaware convening top regional and national biomedical researchers, business leaders, investors, startups and policymakers
• Get an inside perspective on the state of the industry from expert analysts and investors
• Learn about cutting edge advances in science and technology transforming patient treatment
• Meet business decision makers and partners through networking & partnering meetings
• Become an exhibitor and connect with over 300 life science professionals
• Showcase your organization’s support for the Delaware area life science community with the most influential audience in the region!
• Breakfast, Lunch, Cocktail Reception with top shelf Open Bar
• Partnering Through the App: The conference will feature an app with a partnering tool allowing attendees to schedule and conduct one-on-one meetings between companies, researchers, investors and other businesses

Sponsors

Leading life science enterprises from global companies to research institutes and economic development organizations are partnering with Delaware Bio to make Delaware’s DNA the biggest, most valuable event of its kind in state history. They include Adesis, ANP Technologies, Advant-Edge Solution of the Middle Atlantic, AstraZeneca, Avantor delivered by VWR, Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), Comprehensive Cell Solutions, Courtyard by Marriott, CRB, Delaware Business Times, Delaware Prosperity Partnership, Delaware Technology Park, Incyte, The Innovation Space, LabWare, McCarter & English, MRA Group, Nemours, NIIMBL, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau, Prelude Therapeutics, QPS, and Whiting-Turner.

For conference agenda details, information on sponsorship and to purchase tickets, go to: https://www.delawarebio.org/page/delawares-dna-2024-life-science-conference

Conference Details

Date: Thursday, May 9
Time: 8:30 am–6:00 pm
Location: Clayton Hall, 100 David Hollowell Drive, Newark, DE 19716

About Delaware BioScience Association

The Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) is a catalyst for bioscience innovation in Delaware. We serve pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, medical device manufacturers, agricultural biotech and chemical companies, research and testing companies, hospitals and medical institutions, academic partners and other organizations and companies that support them, with the goal of expanding our state’s vibrant science economy. Our more than 170 member companies and organizations are of every size, from global leaders to small start-ups, representing 11,000 innovation-based jobs vital to Delaware’s economic future.

Contact

Jamie Pedrick – Director, Marketing and Communications
Jamie.pedrick@delawarebio.org
410-920-2668

NEWARK, DE (August 30, 2023) – Top business, government and nonprofit female STEM leaders and professionals will convene for the 2023 Inspiring Women in STEM Conference (IWSTEM) on October 19 at the University of Delaware’s Clayton Hall in Newark.

As the premier professional development and networking program designed to encourage, support, and inspire women in all aspects of STEM in their professional lives, IWSTEM serves industrial and government scientists and engineers, academic researchers, educators, college students, and entrepreneurs. This fall’s event marks the 10th anniversary of the Delaware BioScience Association hosting the annual IWSTEM conference.

Conference speakers include US Under Secretary of Commerce and Director of the US Patent and Trademark Office Kathi Vidal, Delaware Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long and Chemours Chief Sustainability Officer Amber Wellman.

IWSTEM’s daylong professional development program features keynote talks and fireside chats, lively interactive panel discussions and workshops, mentoring sessions and opportunities for peer networking. New to this year’s conference is a digital app that will enable participants to communicate directly with other attendees and facilitate networking.

In response to significant community interest, this year Delaware Bio has expanded IWSTEM to include smaller quarterly programs that combine networking with discussions of important professional development topics. Those programs continue to grow in popularity, with events in March and June covering topics including networking with a purpose and the confidence gap.

All individuals with an interest in building their STEM careers are welcome to attend. Conference participants will include industry executives, mid and early-career business people, scientists and academics, entrepreneurs, investors and students.

An early-bird sale offering $50.00 off ticket prices runs now until September 5. Delaware Bio members receive special discounted ticket pricing. For more details on registration, group ticket sales, sponsorship and the program, please visit: https://www.delawarebio.org/page/inspiring-women-in-stem-2023-conference

About 2023 IWSTEM Conference
Thursday, October 19, 2023
Clayton Hall, 100 David Hollowell Drive, Newark, DE 19716
8:00 am – 4:30 pm

About Delaware BioScience Association
The Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) is a catalyst for bioscience innovation in Delaware. We serve pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, medical device manufacturers, agricultural biotech and chemical companies, research and testing companies, hospitals and medical institutions, academic partners and other organizations and companies that support them, with the goal of expanding our state’s vibrant science economy. Our more than 160 member companies and organizations are of every size, from global leaders to small start-ups, representing 11,000 innovation-based jobs vital to Delaware’s economic future.

Contact Jamie Pedrick – Director, Marketing and Communications
Jamie.pedrick@delawarebio.org
410-920-2668

NEWARK (July 11, 2023) – The Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) announced the election of Tim Mueller, Ph.D., of Prelude Therapeutics, Lakshmi Cyr, Ph.D., of Delaware Technical Community College, Sandra Lewisch, Ph.D., of Siemens Healthineers, Tracy Shickel of the University of Delaware and Shamus Whyte of AstraZeneca to its board of directors.

Tim Mueller is vice president, EHS, lab operations and facilities at Prelude Therapeutics, a precision oncology company. In addition to leading operational excellence for the safe and efficient operations of Prelude’s research laboratories, he is leading the effort to construct a new headquarters in Wilmington. Mueller has extensive experience building and supporting companies in the Delaware life science ecosystem including key roles at the Innovation Space and DuPont.

Lakshmi Cyr is instructional director and Science Department chairperson at Delaware Tech where she has been on faculty since 2007 and received the Excellence in Teaching award. Earlier in her career she worked in industry and did postdoctoral research at the University of Georgia and Ohio State University. She replaces Katie Lakofsky, who left Delaware Tech and the Delaware Bio board upon her appointment to lead industry workforce development.

Tracy Shickel is associate vice president of corporate engagement at the University of Delaware (UD). Shickel leads university-wide external engagement supporting innovation-based economic development, including growth of the University’s Science Technology and Advanced Research (STAR) Campus. Her background includes extensive strategy development and commercial leadership roles with chemicals, biologics and advanced materials innovators. Additionally, she serves on the Board of the Association of University of Research Parks (AURP), an organization representing university-anchored innovation communities.

Sandra Lewisch is senior director, R&D, Siemens Healthineers, based at the company’s Newark site. Lewisch leads development of clinical chemistry and immunoassays for automated clinical analyzers and has held progressive technical and leadership roles in R&D and led product development efforts from predevelopment through commercialization and customer support. She is an active committee member for Inspiring Women in STEM (IWSTEM) and UD’s Biomedical Engineering External Advisory Council.

Shamus Whyte is executive director and site manager, responsible for leadership and direction of the 300 professionals at AstraZeneca’s supply site in Newark. This includes accountability for all aspects of manufacture & supply of products to global markets supporting more than $8 billion in sales. Whyte has extensive global experience leading strategy and operations including assignments in the UK, Russia, Germany, China, Tibet and Nepal.

Delaware Bio also announced the reelection of two directors: Greg Tronto of Gore PharmBio Development and Chris Yochim, Director of Business Development at NIIMBL, the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing of Biopharmaceuticals. Yochim serves as chair of the Delaware Bio board.

“We are delighted to welcome these exceptional leaders to the board and know the organization will benefit from their deep expertise and their organization’s leadership in so many areas critical to the success of our Delaware life science community,” said Yochim. “Delaware Bio is thriving, with membership, engagement and impact growing in every respect; the addition of Tim, Lakshmi, Sandra, Tracy and Shamus will further strengthen our team, enhancing the diversity of experience guiding the board and this thriving sector so critical to Delaware and the nation’s future.”

For more on the Delaware Bio board go to: https://www.delawarebio.org/page/meet-de-bio

About Delaware BioScience Association
The Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) is a catalyst for bioscience innovation in Delaware. We serve pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, medical device manufacturers, agricultural biotech and chemical companies, research and testing companies, hospitals and medical institutions, academic partners and other organizations and companies that support them, with the goal of expanding our state’s vibrant science economy. Our more than 160 member companies and organizations are of every size, from global leaders to small start-ups, representing 11,000 innovation-based jobs vital to Delaware’s economic future.

Contact
Jamie Pedrick – Director, Marketing and Communications
Jamie.pedrick@delawarebio.org
410-920-2668

Seven Delaware Start-Ups Pitched their Business and Technology at Life Science Industry Conference

ORIGINAL SOURCE: Delaware BioScience Association

NEWARK, DE (May 15, 2023) – CorriXR Therapeutics was voted “Most Promising New Company” by attendees at the first-ever Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) conference last week.

The first spin-out of ChristianaCare’s Gene Editing Institute, CorriXR is an oncology-focused biotherapeutics development company with a ground-breaking gene editing platform technology.

“It was an honor to present CorriXR Therapeutics and win Most Promising New Company at Delaware’s DNA 2023 Life Science Conference,” said Dr. Eric Kmiec, company founder and CEO. “We thank Delaware Bio for providing this opportunity to strengthen relationships and connections in the life sciences ecosystem in the state. We are grateful for the continued support as a start-up company developing novel gene editing therapies for cancer.”

Runners up for the top prize were Cosmos Pharmaceuticals, a medical device company focused on the relationship between medication adherence and patient outcomes, and Hartlon, a start-up developing a resorbable vascular stent designed to salvage limbs that are at risk of amputation by restoring blood flow below the knee.

Each of the seven companies selected to participate made 3-minute pitches to the conference audience. All attendees were eligible to vote through the conference app. As top vote getter, CorriXR will receive a $2500 prize and Cosmos and Hartlon each will receive $1000.

"It was a privilege to present my start up, Cosmos Pharmaceuticals, at Delaware Bio’s first conference. The presentation, feedback, and most importantly the attendees that I connected with made this event special,” said Cosmos founder Alexander Colton. “Delaware's tightly connected entrepreneurial hub is a critical part of Cosmos's success and we are excited to launch our product FortisKap later this year from my home state."

“I greatly appreciated the opportunity to interact with leaders in the Delaware life science ecosystem,” said Jack Scanlon of Hartlon. “We are so pleased by this recognition – it makes clear that people understand both the severity of the health problem Hartlon is addressing and the transformational potential of our breakthrough drug delivery technology.”

Held on May 11, Delaware’s DNA: 2023 Life Science Conference, convened an unprecedented collection of global, regional and state bioscience sector leaders for a full-day program exploring the industry’s most critical issues and opportunities. Event speakers included Gov. John Carney, CEOs, federal government officials and top industry investors from JP Morgan, Bernstein and Aisling Capital along with scientific presentations by Delaware researchers.

“We congratulate CorriXR, Cosmos and Hartlon on this exciting achievement and recognition, and thank all our participating companies for helping make our first-ever conference a huge success,” said Michael Fleming, president of Delaware Bio. “Small life science companies are the largest, and fastest-growing segment of our membership and the pitch competition demonstrated the strength and diversity of our startup ecosystem.”

Other firms participating in the pitch were:

BioCurie - BioCurie is developing an AI software platform that will revolutionize cell and gene therapy (CGT) production to make these lifesaving therapies faster, better, and cheaper.

Cellergy Pharma - Cellergy Pharma develops novel immunotherapies for the treatment of severe allergic diseases.

Innovative Precision Health - Innovative Precision Health (IPH) is a healthcare technology company that provides comprehensive solutions for precision health. Our platform integrates data collection, analysis, and interpretation and is implemented and validated nationwide.

Nitro Biosciences - Nitro Biosciences is a startup company from the University of Delaware developing a live bacterial vaccine platform to target diseases/antigens normally hidden from the immune system.

About Delaware BioScience Association
The Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) is a catalyst for bioscience innovation in Delaware. We serve pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, medical device manufacturers, agricultural biotech and chemical companies, research and testing companies, hospitals and medical institutions, academic partners and other organizations and companies that support them, with the goal of expanding our state’s vibrant science economy. Our more than 160 member companies and organizations are of every size, from global leaders to small start-ups, representing 11,000 innovation-based jobs vital to Delaware’s economic future.

Contact
Jamie Pedrick – Director, Marketing and Communications
Jamie.pedrick@delawarebio.org
410-920-2668

Eight Exciting Regional Life Science Start-ups Selected for Pitch Competition at Major First-ever Industry Event

ORIGINAL SOURCE: Delaware BioScience Association

NEWARK, DE (April 19, 2023) – The Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) today revealed the new life science companies selected to participate in a pitch competition during a first-ever industry conference on May 11.

The event, Delaware’s DNA: 2023 Life Science Conference, will convene an unprecedented collection of global, regional and state bioscience sector leaders for a full-day program exploring the industry’s most critical and timely issues. This will include showcasing cutting-edge research and innovative new companies with compelling business opportunities.
These eight young firms (founded in the last 5 years) have been selected from a pool of applicants to present during the “Most Promising New Company” pitch competition during which all conference attendees will be eligible to vote on the companies with the most exciting story and prospects:

• BioCurie
• Cellergy Pharma
• CorriXR Therapeutics, Inc.
• Cosmos Pharmaceuticals LLC
• Hartlon LLC
• Innovative Precision Health
• Nitro Biosciences

Each company will have three minutes to present their technology, products or services, with the top three vote-getters awarded with a cash prize ($2500 for first prize, $1000 each for the two runners up).

“These exciting new companies represent the full breadth and dynamism of the greater Delaware region’s life science ecosystem,” said Michael Fleming, president of Delaware Bio. “Presenting at Delaware’s DNA will be a hugely valuable opportunity for these founders to share their story with the most important and influential industry audience ever assembled in our state.”

Delaware’s DNA: 2023 Life Science Conference headliners include Delaware Governor John Carney, Incyte CEO Hervé Hoppenot, Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) CEO Rachel King, University of Delaware president Dennis Assanis, Aisling Capital founder Dennis Purcell, JP Morgan managing director Sophie Jones, Bernstein senior analyst Will Pickering, Jonathan Franca-Koh of National Institutes of Health/National Cancer Institute, National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) Director Kelvin Lee, Prelude Therapeutics CEO Kris Vaddi and Eric Kmiec, Director of the Gene Editing Institute, and founder of CorriXR Therapeutics.

A First-Ever Life Science Event
The event will showcase Delaware’s thriving life science ecosystem through a full-day program highlighting the momentum and opportunity underlining the state and region’s emergence as a global hub of innovation and growth. This includes:
• An inside perspective on the state of the industry from leading industry analysts and investors
• Key issues in economic and workforce development
• The regional potential for advanced and biopharmaceutical manufacturing
• Advances and innovations in cancer research and treatment

Cutting Edge Scientific Research to be Presented
Another important element of Delaware’s DNA will be poster presentations on cutting-edge science by local researchers. Throughout the conference, students and faculty of area educational and biomedical research institutions will be on hand to share and discuss their compelling work with attendees.

Partnering Through the App
The conference app also includes a partnering tool that allows attendees to schedule and conduct one-on-one meetings between companies, researchers, investors and other businesses. Meetings will be hosted on the platform virtually the following Thursday, May 18.

Details on Most Promising Companies
BioCurie - BioCurie is developing an AI software platform that will revolutionize cell and gene therapy (CGT) production to make these lifesaving therapies faster, better, and cheaper.

Cellergy Pharma - Cellergy Pharma develops novel immunotherapies for the treatment of severe allergic diseases.

CorriXR Therapeutics, Inc. - CorriXR Therapeutics, the first spin-out of ChristianaCare’s Gene Editing Institute, has developed an IP-protected gene editing platform that reverses cancer drug resistance in tumor cells, but not in surrounding healthy cells.

Cosmos Pharmaceuticals LLC - Cosmos is a medical device company focused on the relationship between medication adherence and patient outcomes. FortisKap, a smart pill cap, records adherence data in real time to improve patient well being.

Hartlon LLC – Hartlon’s lead product is a novel resorbable vascular stent that is designed to salvage limbs that are at risk of amputation by restoring blood flow below the knee (BTK).

Innovative Precision Health - Innovative Precision Health (IPH) is a healthcare technology company that provides comprehensive solutions for precision health. Our platform integrates data collection, analysis, and interpretation and is implemented and validated nationwide.

Nitro Biosciences - Nitro Biosciences is a startup company from the University of Delaware developing a live bacterial vaccine platform to target diseases/antigens normally hidden from the immune system.

Radiolife - Proprietary technology that combines radio frequency signatures with AI to enable the rapid and cost-effective detection of viruses, bacteria, and cancer cells.

Sponsors
Leading life science enterprises from global companies to research institutes and economic development organizations are partnering with Delaware Bio to make Delaware’s DNA the biggest, most valuable event of its kind in state history. They include:

• ABS
• ANP Technologies
• Avantor
• Bancroft Construction
• Biotechnology Innovation Organization
• BioTek ReMEDys
• Chestnut Run Innovation & Science Park
• Choice Med Waste
• Comprehensive Cell Solutions
• Delaware Biotechnology Institute
• Delaware Business Times
• Delaware Prosperity Partnership
• Delaware Technology Park
• Facility Logix
• Incyte
• Innovation Space
• LabWare
• McCarter & English
• Nemours
• NIIMBL
• Prelude Therapeutics
• QPS Holdings
• Scheer Partners
• University of Delaware
• The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company

For conference agenda details, information on sponsorship and to purchase tickets go to: delawarebio.org/page/delawares-dna

Conference Details

Date: Thursday, May 11th
Time: 9:00 am–6:00 pm
Location: The Waterfall, 3416 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE 19703

About Delaware BioScience Association
The Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) is a catalyst for bioscience innovation in Delaware. We serve pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, medical device manufacturers, agricultural biotech and chemical companies, research and testing companies, hospitals and medical institutions, academic partners and other organizations and companies that support them, with the goal of expanding our state’s vibrant science economy. Our more than 160 member companies and organizations are of every size, from global leaders to small start-ups, representing 11,000 innovation-based jobs vital to Delaware’s economic future.

Contact
Jamie Pedrick – Director, Marketing and Communications
Jamie.pedrick@delawarebio.org
410-920-2668
 

 

FIRST-EVER DELAWARE LIFE SCIENCE CONFERENCE TO CONVENE NATIONAL AND REGIONAL INDUSTRY LEADERS

“Delaware’s DNA” will feature top CEOs, investors, researchers and exciting new companies

ORIGINAL SOURCE: Delaware BioScience Association

NEWARK, DE (February 23, 2023) – An unprecedented collection of life science sector leaders will participate in the inaugural Delaware’s DNA: 2023 Life Science Conference on Thursday, May 11. The event, hosted by the Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio), will convene regional and national biomedical researchers, business leaders, investors and policymakers for a day-long program of rich panel discussions and insightful, expert speakers on the industry’s most critical and timely issues.

Conference headliners include Delaware Governor John Carney, Incyte CEO Hervé Hoppenot, Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) interim CEO Rachel King, Aisling Capital founder Dennis Purcell, National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) Director Kelvin Lee, Prelude Therapeutics CEO Kris Vaddi and Eric Kmiec, Director of the Gene Editing Institute, and founder of CorriXR Therapeutics.

“Delaware’s emerging posture as a global life science leader is clear and exciting,” said Michael Fleming, president of Delaware Bio. “Delaware’s DNA will shine a bright light on the full breadth and diversity of our unique strengths and rapid growth, while exploring the continued focus and investment required to ensure our future impact and success.”

A First-Ever Daylong Life Science Event

The event will showcase Delaware’s thriving life science ecosystem through a full-day program highlighting the momentum and opportunity underlining the state and region’s emergence as a global hub of innovation and growth. This includes:

• An inside perspective on the state of the industry from leading industry analysts and investors
  
• Key issues in economic and workforce development
  
• The regional potential for advanced and biopharmaceutical manufacturing
  
• Advances and innovations in cancer research and treatment
  

Most Promising New Company Competition and Scientific Poster Presentations

Also new this year, Delaware’s DNA will feature exciting new life science businesses vying for the title of “Most Promising New Company.” Companies launched within the last five years are invited to apply to be among those selected to make 5-minute pitches during a full session of conference participants. All event attendees will be eligible to vote on their favorite new companies via a multifunctional app developed for the conference.

Companies selected to participate will receive complimentary access to the conference and gain significant exposure to the most influential industry audience ever assembled in the state. Top vote winners will also be recognized with prizes and invited to share their stories at future Delaware Bio programs.

Another important element of Delaware’s DNA will be poster presentations on cutting-edge science by local researchers. Throughout the conference, students and faculty of area educational and biomedical research institutions will be on hand to share and discuss their compelling work with attendees. A call for proposals for the poster presentations and most promising new company applications will be issued later this week.

Partnering Through the App
The conference app also includes a partnering tool that allows attendees to schedule and conduct one-on-one meetings between companies, researchers, investors and other businesses. Meetings will be hosted on the platform virtually the following Thursday, May 18.

Sponsors
Leading life science enterprises from global companies to research institutes and economic development organizations are partnering with Delaware Bio to make Delaware’s DNA the biggest, most valuable event of its kind in state history. They include:
Avantor, delivered by VWR
ANP Technologies
Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO)
Choice MedWaste
Delaware Biotechnology Institute
Delaware Business Times
Delaware Prosperity Partnership
Facility Logix
Incyte
National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL)
Prelude Therapeutics
University of Delaware

For conference agenda details, information on sponsorship and to purchase tickets go to: delawarebio.org/page/delawares-dna

Conference Details

Date: Thursday, May 11th

Time: 9:00 am–6:00 pm

Location: The Waterfall, 3416 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE 19703

About Delaware BioScience Association

The Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) is a catalyst for bioscience innovation in Delaware. We serve pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, medical device manufacturers, agricultural biotech and chemical companies, research and testing companies, hospitals and medical institutions, academic partners and other organizations and companies that support them, with the goal of expanding our state’s vibrant science economy. Our more than 160 member companies and organizations are of every size, from global leaders to small start-ups, representing 11,000 innovation-based jobs vital to Delaware’s economic future.

Contact
Jamie Pedrick – Director, Marketing and Communications
Jamie.pedrick@delawarebio.org
410-920-2668
 

ORIGINAL SOURCE: Delaware BioScience Association

NEWARK (November 10, 2022) – The state’s leading organizations supporting Delaware’s life science research and economic growth announced today the appointment of Katie Lakofsky, Ed.D., to a new position spearheading workforce development and university-industry relations for the sector.

The role was conceived and will be jointly funded by the Delaware Biotechnology Institute (DBI) at the University of Delaware and the Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) to develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to deliver a talent pipeline for the diverse range of career opportunities in the region’s thriving biotech ecosystem. Lakofsky will also be focused on strengthening industry ties with Delaware research and educational institutions.

Dr. Lakofsky currently serves as director of workforce development and community education at Delaware Technical Community College (DTCC) and has extensive experience in biotech training, research and private sector companies. She begins in the new role November 21st.

“I am delighted Katie will be leading this important initiative, bringing her energy and vision to the goal of making Delaware a global leader in delivering a skilled biotech workforce,” said John Koh, Director of DBI. “This creative collaboration with Delaware Bio will ensure she has the full support of both the research and business community behind her efforts.”

“There couldn’t be a better individual to drive this critical effort at such a pivotal time in the growth of the Delaware life science ecosystem,” said Michael Fleming, President of Delaware Bio. “Katie has the unique combination of experience, expertise and relationships to make an immediate impact and ultimately spark partnerships and innovative approaches that strengthen and expand our bioscience workforce.”

“I am excited by this opportunity to continue my work in making Delaware the best place in the country for life science industry talent,” said Lakofsky. “I look forward to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to develop and implement a strategic vision that ensures Delaware has the skilled workforce needed for the region’s growing bioscience industry.”

Earlier this year Delaware Bio released results of a member survey underlining significant current and future industry needs to fill in roles spanning advanced manufacturing, operations, management and biomedical technology and product research and development. Every firm reported having openings at all levels of their organization, and while roles requiring bachelor’s and advanced degrees are in demand, most companies are also actively recruiting for positions requiring a high school education, training certificate or a 2-year associates degree. And nearly every company said they would be interested in training partnerships with the state or an educational institution.

Lakofsky will be working closely with education, research and training institutions – including Delaware State University, Delaware Tech, NIIMBL, Nemours, ChristianaCare – STEM education organizations, government leaders and employers to inform plans for enhancing, building and scaling training and engagement programs and public-private partnerships that fortify the state’s life science talent pipeline.

“Putting further key building blocks in place to ensure that sectors such as our state and region’s life sciences sector can succeed is an important step in enhancing Delaware’s vibrant economy,” said Kurt Foreman, President and CEO of the Delaware Prosperity Partnership (DPP). “We have worked effectively with Dr. Lakofsky and having her lead this new initiative will be a win-win for industry and area residents who can pursue so many rewarding types of careers in the life sciences. We applaud DBI and Delaware Bio for making this important commitment to focusing on accelerating talent pipelines.”

“Katie has deep expertise in fostering productive collaborations between industry and academia that have enhanced student success, as well as growth in sponsored research. Her industry knowledge, skills and energy will enhance our collective impact in supporting a critical sector for the state’s future,” said Tracy Shickel, Associate Vice President, Corporate Engagement at UD.

Prior to her current position at Delaware Tech, Lakofsky held roles with DBI, UD’s College of Engineering, the Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology and Athena Biotechnologies, and she has served as a member of the Delaware Bio Board since 2020. She received her BA and MS in Plant Biology and an Ed.D., in Educational Leadership all from the University of Delaware.

About Delaware Biotechnology Institute
The Delaware Biotechnology Institute (DBI) is an interdisciplinary institution that supports life science research, education and entrepreneurship at the University of Delaware. Recent analysis of the Life Science community in Delaware cites enhancing relations between higher education institutions and private industry and ensuring Delaware produces a skilled, ready, and sufficient workforce as strategic areas for opportunity that would benefit from a coordinated approach.

About Delaware BioScience Association
The Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) has been a catalyst for bioscience innovation in Delaware. We serve pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, medical device manufacturers, agricultural biotech and chemical companies, research and testing companies, hospitals and medical institutions, academic partners and other organizations and companies that support them, with the goal of expanding our state’s vibrant science economy. Our 160 member companies and organizations are of every size, from global leaders to small start-ups, representing 11,000 innovation-based jobs vital to Delaware’s economic future.
--- Ends ---

Contacts:
Peter Bothum
pbothum@udel.edu
Interim Sr. Director, External Relations
University of Delaware
302-831-1418 (office)
302-766-5103 (cell)

Jamie Pedrick
Jamie.pedrick@delawarebio.org
Director, Marketing and Communications
Delaware BioScience Association
410-920-2668

Slashing American IP Rights Will Needlessly Hurt Delaware's Biotech Sector

The U.S. Attorney General recently announced arrests and charges associated with multiple schemes tied to the Chinese government's "relentless campaign to gain access to our technology."

This multi-year effort is all too well understood by American researchers, who have been subjected to an unrelenting wave of foreign-inspired attempts to steal the product of decades of complex, arduous work in the labs and billions of dollars in invested capital.

It's not a surprise our intellectual property is so coveted by international rivals. There is no place where scientific research, specifically biopharmaceutical research, is as innovative and productive as the United States. The benefits of these breakthroughs are clear. Every day, we are unlocking the mysteries of deadly, crippling diseases, transforming human health and our economy in the process.

Two key initiatives launched by President Biden underline the critical role that American science and advanced manufacturing play in our national security. His "Moonshot" push to align resources focused on beating cancer, and an executive order calling for a comprehensive government strategy to strengthen our biomanufacturing capabilities.

The ultimate success of these programs hinges, as so many good outcomes do, on American ingenuity, the foundations of which are rooted deeply in essential IP rights.

So it is inexplicable that this past June, U.S. trade negotiators supported a World Trade Organization proposal to suspend international IP rights for the technologies used to develop coronavirus vaccines. This waiver to the agreement on "Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights," or TRIPS, allowed manufacturers worldwide to access patented American innovations at no cost.

In December, the WTO will decide whether to extend the TRIPS waiver to include proprietary research for Covid diagnostics and therapeutics.

The expanded TRIPS waiver would give governments of "developing countries" the right to manufacture and export hundreds of patented medicines and diagnostics without the knowledge or consent of the innovator company. Such waivers make it easier for notorious IP pickpockets like China and Russia -- who qualify as "developing countries" -- to help themselves to US technology and weaken efforts to crack down on industrial theft in general.

In response to the global pandemic, U.S. manufacturers have launched development programs for over 1,100 treatments for Covid, many involving compounds and technologies being used or studied in other diseases. The expanded TRIPS proposal could therefore create a potentially unlimited class of products subject to the waiver, carrying damaging consequences for American companies, particularly for the small and medium-sized enterprises that account for 76% of these projects.

The failure of U.S. officials in Geneva to consider the implications of this decision is baffling, and patently contradicts the intent of the president's stated policies.

Fortunately, U.S. senators of both parties, including Tom Carper and Chris Coons of Delaware, have posed serious questions to the U.S. Trade Representative on the issue, explaining that "the United States will continue its leadership … to ensure developing countries have access to the tools and treatments needed to combat Covid, and we believe this can be accomplished without undermining U.S. leadership in medical innovation."

The implications of this expanded TRIPS waiver for the economic future of the president's home state -- and indeed our entire nation -- is substantial. Delaware's biotech sector is thriving, responsible for thousands of great careers in construction, advanced manufacturing and pediatric biomedical research. With a 65% increase in new firms in the past decade, it's one of our state's most important and fastest-growing economic engines.

Much of our time at Delaware Bio, in fact, is spent helping these small companies get off the ground, and ensuring they appropriately secure their IP is an early priority.

Fundamentally, the TRIPS waiver itself is based on a wobbly justification. The initial proposal at the outset of the pandemic by India and South Africa – countries with major generic drug industries that would undoubtedly benefit from free access to American biotech IP – was ostensibly intended to speed production and distribution of vaccines, tests and treatments.

Two years later, thanks to U.S. companies who willingly licensed their products for manufacture, there is a global surplus of vaccines and no shortage of tests or treatments.

U.S. trade negotiators must understand that a waiver-prone WTO will quickly give pause to those who risk precious capital to fund biomedical innovation. Without robust IP protection the TRIPS agreement provides globally, there will be no innovation to share under its terms. That would be a disaster come the next pandemic, and it would be a disaster for America's unrivaled leadership in biomedical innovation.

Michael Fleming is president of the Delaware BioScience Association

-

Last month more than 40 foreign ambassadors traveled from their embassy posts in Washington, D.C. to spend the day in Delaware.

This was a remarkable, historic thing for our small state. These were the senior diplomatic representatives of their countries — professionals at the very top of their game — who came to learn about the state’s economy and higher education, with a particular focus on science and technology.

We were fortunate to participate in the occasion, sharing the Delaware Bio story with leaders from every corner of the world: Korea, Iraq, Suriname, Panama, Laos, Sierra Leone, Albania and more.

Each diplomat was deeply interested in and impressed with what they heard: Delaware’s life science sector is thriving, at the epicenter of one of the hottest regions for biomedical innovation in the world.

I came away struck by the reality that any single one of these countries – beautiful, important nations like Portugal, Montenegro, Iceland and Panama – would love to have even a sliver of the bioscientific engine we have here, 11,000 great jobs of every kind generating billions in economic output.

The ambassadors asked me about Delaware’s success and opportunities to collaborate with researchers in their countries. How did we grow such a robust life science landscape?

It is a question well put to the investment community that funds the arduous, expensive research that takes years to (hopefully) result in innovative therapies and technologies benefiting human health. These investors will tell you the significant risk they take on in funding early-stage companies and long-shot drug development is worth it with the prospect of appropriate returns for their capital.

That’s a concept that isn’t often discussed nor well understood but the model has made the United States —and states like Delaware — the unrivaled global leader in biomedical research and patient care. And biotech investors emphasized that message with Congress as drug price controls were considered over the last month, urging House and Senate leadership to think twice about the unintended consequences (fewer innovative new medicines) that could come with a complex new price-setting paradigm that will now be imposed on all new medicines as the result of a party-line vote.

The fact is, no industry invests as much in R&D while doing as much good: US biopharma companies plunge more than 100 billion dollars a year into the development of new medicines, investments the Congressional Budget Office says resulted in a 60 percent increase in new drug approvals between 2010 and 2019 versus the previous ten years.

Entrepreneurial, research-based American companies responsible for this productivity – and a fair, predictable intellectual property (IP) framework – have made the American bioscience industry the pride of the world, a key strategic national security asset and more practically the recipients of foreign investment. From 2009 to 2019, $420 billion in investment poured into the industry from outside our borders. That dwarfs the next nearest competitor, Switzerland, which saw a relatively paltry $34 billion in inward capital flows.

Not so coincidentally, this trend is accelerating as price controls in Europe and Japan have significantly diminished the historic strength of the sector in those regions.

Price controls disincentivize long-term investment and the biopharmaceutical industry is fundamentally a long-term enterprise. According to a new Moody’s report, “the drug pricing provisions tucked into the [Inflation Reduction Act] could eventually have a credit-lowering effect on the industry at large … creating a long-term challenge for the pharmaceutical industry.”

Take two leading Delaware companies as an example: Incyte launched its first medicine a full nine years after establishing their company here — meaning they had no product revenue for nearly a decade during which they became one of our most important employers (a product, incidentally (Jakafi) for which continued post-approval research has led to multiple additional indications for serious medical conditions).

Prelude Therapeutics reported a $27 million loss in the last quarter — not unusual for a pre-revenue biotech — with $21 million going into research advancing multiple new medicines for complex, deadly cancers.

For every Incyte and Prelude progressing and commercializing a pipeline of new cutting-edge medicines there are ten companies you never heard of that shut their doors after several years and millions in investment.

And for every successful biopharmaceutical company there are many other businesses supporting their needs for special technologies, manufacturing and other services.

It is our hope that the new measure passed by Congress will be improved by changes that protect and incentivize American investment in innovative research and development, and meaningful, comprehensive changes to our drug pricing and reimbursement system that prioritize patient access. Meanwhile, we will continue to engage our elected representatives to ensure they understand the immense sacrifice, spirit and costs involved in bringing life-changing therapies and vaccines to America and the world.

Michael Fleming is president of the Delaware BioScience Association.

Delaware is fortunate to be home to a vibrant, dynamic bioscience community. The work we do here – innovative research and development, cutting-edge science and creating and manufacturing medicines and new technologies – improves patients’ lives and powers our economy.

A comprehensive report issued last year with the Delaware Prosperity Partnership underlines how life science innovation is driving the state’s economic future:

• More than 11,000 people employed
• $2 billion in GDP generated with payrolls of at least $230 million
• Biotech startups have grown 65% in the last decade
• 64% more life science degrees were awarded in the same period
• Advanced manufacturing is a rapidly increasing career path

Behind these statistics are your neighbors, the people going to work in Delaware labs and manufacturing facilities each day with a passion to help patients everywhere. In Delaware’s biosciences sector, there’s opportunity for everyone – thousands of rewarding careers in companies of all types and sizes spanning research, manufacturing, construction, and countless other roles that build up our state’s communities and benefit families.

We recently launched an effort to share the stories of these remarkable people from every background and educational experience – here are a few:

Lauren – Agilent
Lauren is manufacturing engineer at Agilent, an analytical instrumentation development and manufacturing company with sites in Newport and Wilmington. Her work helps create the tests that check for important information in pharmaceutical drugs, like potency and purity. A UD grad, Lauren loves her role and is excited about Delaware’s future prospects, “I love the opportunity to grow and innovate in my home state.”

Brendan – Ballydel Technologies
Brendan is the founder of Ballydel Technologies, a start-up developing anti-counterfeit technology to protect vaccine vials and biologic containers so that adulterated, substandard, or dangerous counterfeit products don’t make their way to patients. “This technology is developed in Delaware but protects patients everywhere,” said Brian.

Natalie – Incyte
Natalie, who has held research and business roles at Incyte, is passionate about improving the quality of life for patients. Incyte’s headquarters are based in Wilmington, where they recently opened a new state of the art lab building that will support their continued growth and development of therapies for people with rare cancers and debilitating skin conditions. “We’ve come from a very small, 700-person biotech when I joined, to now having over 2,000 employees, always striving to keep patient needs and interests at the top of mind.”

Ray – ANP Technologies
Ray is the CEO of ANP Technologies, a Newark company that quickly ramped up their rapid test development and manufacturing capabilities to meet the demands of the COVID-19 pandemic. “There are plenty of extremely well-qualified people in this area, because of the large scientific community and the universities, but there were also so many people who just wanted to help,” he said. “We had to move as fast as COVID did. So, we got to work.”

Wesley – AstraZeneca
Wesley works in quality control at AstraZeneca’s Newark manufacturing plant. He conducts analytical testing to ensure that medicines are labeled and marketed correctly, which includes checking for appropriate doses of active ingredients and confirming that no impurities are present in the products. “I grew up in this area,” he said, “all the high-end biosciences and attractive jobs certainly help fuel our local economy, but the most rewarding thing is that I know I’m contributing to the creation of life-saving medicines.”

Larry – Bancroft Construction
Larry has been working in construction for over 30 years, and at Bancroft he oversees projects that include building advanced laboratory research and testing facilities across the state. “The lab research and manufacturing work is extremely sophisticated and requires precise design and construction. We’re proud to be a part of the process and understand what a big responsibility it is to take on these projects. It’s very rewarding to see them turn into these facilities that go on to develop life-changing medicines for people.”

Sophie – Adesis
As a synthetic chemist at Adesis, Sophie is proud of her work that helps accelerate the development of important medicines. “Not only can I help my clients solve complex problems, but it’s an opportunity for me to actually help make a difference in people’s lives through pharmaceutical medicines and technologies,” she said. “Delaware is a great place to do this work.”

To learn more about the inspiring individual stories behind Delaware’s bioscience innovation – and great career opportunities for you and your family members – go to: Developed in Delaware (delawarebio.org)

By Michael Fleming, president of the Delaware Bioscience Association.

WILMINGTON 2/22/2022 – A new survey of Delaware life science companies shows the state is poised to take advantage of transformational opportunities in life science manufacturing if it can deliver a talent pipeline to fuel that future growth.

The survey confirms comments made by leading employers during a discussion hosted by the Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) last week focused on careers producing biopharmaceuticals and pharmaceutical ingredients, and sophisticated instrumentation and diagnostics. Representatives from Agilent Technologies, AstraZeneca and Wilmington Pharmatech shared their current and expected needs for employees to fill important manufacturing and operational roles in their Delaware facilities, rewarding careers often not requiring a 4-year college degree.

The employers also highlighted strategies for recruiting a diverse workforce, including offering excellent compensation and benefits and ongoing training and career development – but each also shared the increasing challenges of filling open roles.

Educational and workforce development officials joined the discussion to elaborate on efforts to better understand employer needs, make smart program investments and educate and engage families and communities on the dynamic career pathways in life science manufacturing.

Results from a survey of Delaware Bio companies released during the February 16 BioBriefing showed that every firm responding has openings in their organization, spanning research, business, or manufacturing positions. While bachelor’s and advanced degrees are still very much in demand, most companies have open roles that only require a high school education, training certificate or a 2-year associates degree. And nearly every company said they would be interested in stepping up training partnerships with the state or an educational institution.[1]

“The discussion and survey results confirm the immense opportunity to ensure Delaware’s economic future is powered by rewarding careers in life science manufacturing,” said Delaware Bio president Michael Fleming. “It is clear that we have to get this right – strengthening partnerships and expanding training programs – or other states surely will.”

“This was a particularly important and timely discussion and survey as we develop a strategy to invest in programs where Delaware has a competitive advantage and the life science sector is clearly one of those priority areas,” said Scott Malfitano, chair of the Delaware Workforce Development Board. “It is critical that we align our training with what companies need and the sectors where our state can lead well into the future – we are fortunate to have a thriving bioscience sector providing great careers, some that don’t require a college degree, and we need to ensure that growth continues.”

Participants in the BioBriefing

Bryan Fisher | Delaware Sites General Manager | Agilent Technologies
Dr. Feng Han | Senior Vice President of Operations | Wilmington Pharmatech
Diane Humenik | Director, Human Resources Business Partner | AstraZeneca
Joseph Jones | Superintendent | New Castle County Vo-Tech School District
Dr. Katherine Lakofsky | Director, Workforce Development & Community Education | Delaware Technical Community College
Scott Malfitano | Chair | Delaware Workforce Development Board

More survey results

• More than half (11) of companies responding have open roles requiring only high school diploma or a training certificate, and the same number say they hire based on skills vs. degrees
• 10-25 percent of new hires for six companies will be roles needing a 2-year degree
• 10 companies reported paying $60-70,000 for manufacturing roles with two paying over $80,000

Select survey verbatim

Response to question: If you were in charge of Delaware's workforce training, what would you do to make this the best place on the planet for a talented workforce in your industry?

“Get more direct business involvement with educators and students”

“Development of programs/partnership for training chemical manufacturing operators”

“Coordination between industry and educational institutions on training”

“More real world experience, project and self-management skills

“Create more intern positions as part of the training program”

“Have all the universities respond better to market changes and local needs”

“Partner with business to identify needed skills”
________________________________________
[1] The survey was fielded from December 2021 to January 2022 and completed by 18 companies ranging in size from 5 to more than 200 employees. 

The Inspiring Women in STEM Conference is a professional development and networking event designed to encourage, support, and inspire women in all aspects of STEM in their professional lives.

This year is the 9th annual event, and will take place virtually on Thursday.

The event will include industrial and government scientists and engineers, academic researchers, STEM educators, college students, and entrepreneurs.

Jamie Pedrick is with the Delaware BioScience Association, and says this event can promote more women in STEM careers where the numbers pale in comparison to the overall U.S workforce — which is made up of 48 percent women.

"Only 27% of them are women in STEM so I would say that this is very important and not only for raining in women to join STEM careers, but just for professional development as well," he said.

Pedrick adds that even though this is a women’s STEM conference, men are also invited.

"The Inspiring Women in STEM Conference is obviously developed for female STEM leaders, but we also want men to join in the conference as well," said Pedrick. "We want the men to be a part of the conversation, and to see what you can do for your female workforce."