
Welcome To AURP BIO Health Caucus June 15-16, 2025 at the Westin Seaport in Boston, MA Held In Conjunction With BIO International Convention (June 16-19, 2025)

Building Life Science Communities of Innovation in Stormy Weather
The 2025 AURP Bio Health Caucus will highlight stories and discussions from life science research parks and regions that have demonstrated resilience amid funding and policy changes. Discussions will focus on strategies for fostering innovation and growth in challenging environments, showcasing how these organizations and institutions have adapted and thrived despite external pressures.
2025 Agenda Timeline:
5:30 - 6:00 pm
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Reception & Check-In |
6:00 - 8:00 pm
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Networking Dinner and Guest Speakers
Bio Address John Crowley, President/CEO, Biotechnology Innovation Organization (invited)
Presentation of the AURP Vision Award Pete Pellerito, Biotechnology Innovation Organization
Fireside Chat Ben Bradford, Head of External Affairs, Mass Bio Dr. Grace Wang, President, Worcester Polytechnic Institute (invited)
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7:30 - 8:00 am
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Check-In & Networking | Continental Breakfast Served
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8:00 - 8:15 am
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Welcoming Remarks |
8:15 - 8:45 am
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Headwinds in Protecting Bio Innovations Explore challenges in IP protection, the role of the Bayh-Dole Act in fostering innovation, and policy aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of regions in the biotechnology sector. Steve Susalka will address strategies to strengthen IP frameworks and support regional innovation ecosystems.
Speaker: Steve Susalka, CEO, AUTM
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8:45 - 9:30 am
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Life Science Labs of the Future Focus on the evolving design and infrastructure of life science laboratories. These experts will discuss innovative approaches to lab development, sustainability, and collaboration, plus features experiences and insights from IU Labs.
Speakers: Kurt Fullbeck, Director of IU LAB Initiatives and Partnerships, Indiana University Tzveta Panayotova, Principal, HDR Representatives invited from Tishman Speyer and Page
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9:30 - 10:00 am
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Bio Manufacturing in Space: The Future of New Drugs and Devices The “skies the limit” with the potential of space-based bio-manufacturing to revolutionize the development of new drugs and devices. Representatives from Tech Connect, MassChallenge, and CASIS International Space Station will highlight advancements and opportunities in accessing space for cutting-edge biomanufacturing.
Speakers: Donna Roberts, Deputy Chief Scientist, CASIS International Space Station National Lab Representatives invited from Tech Connect and MassChallenge
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10:00 - 10:30 am
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Networking Break |
10:30 - 11:00 am
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Bio Hubs Across the Country: What's Hot and What's Not? Learn emerging trends in life sciences hubs across the U.S., highlighting the regions that are thriving and those facing challenges. Our informed and entertaining authorities will provide insights into the factors driving success and the evolving landscape of life sciences innovation.
Speakers: Alex Philippidis, Senior Business Editor, GEN News Matt Gardner, Head of Life Sciences, Americas, CBRE (invited)
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11:00 - 11:30 am
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Navigating the New Normal and Life Science Workforce Recruiting a robust life science workforce always been difficult, but emerging bio funding uncertainties, international tensions and rapidly changing technologies present new challenges. Will familiarity with AI and quantum tech overtake the need for fundamental biology research experience? Will labs on a chip eliminate the need for workforce used to working with vivaria and animal models? Hear from experts on how regions should prepare for the life science workforce of the future.
Speakers: Brian Gaines, Chief Executive Officer, Learning Undefeated Representatives invited from JLabs, AstraZeneca, Invest Ontario and other US-based organizations
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11:30 - 11:55 am
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Role of Philanthropy in Bio Hubs Across the North America Highlighting how philanthropic efforts contribute to the growth and sustainability of bio hubs, we will explore the impact of charitable investments on innovation, infrastructure, and regional development within the life sciences sector.
Speakers: Representatives to be announced
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11:55 am - 12:00 pm
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Closing Remarks |
This gathering of the global biotech industry provides access to key partners via BIO One-on-One Partnering, educational resources to help drive your business, and the insights you need to continue critical research and development. Learn more: https://www.bio.org/events/bio-international-convention
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