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JOIN US ON DECEMBER 1

It's time to prepare for the new year with new opportunities to save on taxes! 

 

In this webinar, entrepreneurs and investors will gain an understanding of the pros & cons of entity types, the ever-changing landscape concerning deductibility, tax implications of equity compensation (and balancing compliance with talent acquisition), tax credits and incentives, and how to take advantage of various credits and exemptions (R&D tax credits, R&D payroll credits, orphan drug credits, sales tax exemptions, angel investor credits, and the change in tax treatment for R&D).

 

Thanks to our panelists, taxes no longer need to feel like an overwhelming minefield. 

 

SPEAKERS



President Turner visits Lykan Bioscience

 

This month, MLSC President and CEO Kenn Turner had the opportunity to visit with the leadership team of Hopkinton, MA-based Lykan Bioscience. The innovative CDMO focused on cell-based therapies recently announced plans to expand its state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility. According to the company, the expansion is driven by the significant and growing demand for cell therapy process development and manufacturing.

Lykan is also finding its location a key factor for its success, being 25 miles southwest of downtown Boston and in the proximity of four international airports. President Turner and the MLSC team greatly appreciated the opportunity to visit their MetroWest facility and learn about their recent growth. The MLSC is proud to have supported the growing company through the Center's MassTAG and internship programming.

 

 

 

Join the MLSC Team

 

Explore career opportunities with the MLSC. Current openings include:

  • Vice President, Strategy & Business Development
  • Vice President of Finance
  • Director, Industry Strategy & Investments
  • Program Manager, Industry Strategy and Investments
  • Program Associate, Industry Strategy and Investments
  • Operations Associate

Join our team and apply today.

 


Accepting Applications

 

 

 



Friday, December 10,2021

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Hi Chutze,
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As you prepare for next year's events, the MassBioHub, our state-of-the-art business and conference center, is a great option for members looking for flexible meeting options. With below-market-rates for our members, the Hub's dedicated team is equipped with the expertise and technological capabilities to make your event a success. Read more about booking in this week's blog from Suzanne Curran.

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Also, for the month of December, if you refer a fellow colleague or member company to the MassBioHub team, you'll receive 10% off your next meeting when the referral books by March 1, 2022. For questions or to refer a member, fill out the form on the Hub's website to talk to a team member.
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- The MassBio Team


 

MassBio Events
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Accelerated Leadership (Dec 2021 - Jan 2022)
MassBioEd Training| December 7, 2021 - January 18, 2022

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JP Morgan Recap: Insider's View

January 18, 2022

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MassBioDrive Launch

January 19, 2022


 


 

Conferences & Industry Events
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KPMG Risky Business Forum 2021
December 14, 2021

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Virtual BioXchange
December 15, 2021

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M2D2 IMPACT Accelerator Pitch-Off

December 17, 2021


 


 

Webinars & Workshops
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Public Health Conversation: The Next Normal: Children’s Health

December 13, 2021

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Koch Institute Directors Panel

December 14, 2021

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Certara Webinars Presents: Predicting and Taming Immunogenicity: Strategies for your Biologic Drug

December 15, 2021

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Arnold & Porter’s US Life Sciences Regulatory and Enforcement Update (Complimentary CLE)

December 15, 2021

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Perspectives From the Intersection of Health Care and Technology

December 15, 2021

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Anatomy and Physiology of FDA: The Organism Dissected

December 16, 2021

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Halloran Town Hall: Achieving Better Clinical Trial Outcomes by Strategically Targeting Underserved Patient Populations

December 17, 2021


 

Courses & Training
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Managing Risk & Compliance
December 14, 2021

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Introduction to Designing & Conducting Mixed Methods Research
January 5 - March 2, 2022

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Introduction to 'Omics: Applying 'Omics to your Research

January 10 - June 15, 2022

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Biotechnology Project Management (Jan – Feb 2022)

MassBioEd Training| January 18 - February 9, 2022

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Designing and Implementing AI Solutions for Health Care

January 18 - 27, 2022

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Program for Chairs of Clinical Services

January 23- February 4, 2022

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Fundamentals & Applications of Clinical and Translational Research (FaCToR)

February 2 - June 15, 2022

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Leading Digital Transformation in Health Care

February 7 - 18, 2022

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Building & Managing a High Performing Team (Feb – March 2022)

MassBioEd Training| February 8 - March 1, 2022

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Online: Conflict, Feedback, and Negotiation for Physician Leaders

February 16 - 18, 2022

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Boston College – Clinical Research: Principles, Protocols and Procedures

February 19 - March 19, 2022

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Online: Environmental Health Risk
February 28 - March 4, 2022

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Online: Health Care Financial Management for Physician Leaders
March 8 - 10, 2022

A Vision Being Realized in Amherst

The Institute for Applied Life Sciences (IALS) located at UMass Amherst aims to translate fundamental research into innovative product candidates, technologies, and services that deliver benefits to human health and well-being. To achieve this vision, IALS combines deep and interdisciplinary expertise of more than 200 faculty led research groups from 29 departments on the UMass Amherst campus, with the diverse capabilities from industry and government partners.IALS is the MLSC’s largest capital project, a $95 million investment. In 2020, the MLSC awarded additional funding totaling $2 million in capital grants to support four of UMass Amherst campus’ Core Facilities managed by IALS. Learn more.

Apply Now to MLSC Programs

First Look Awards: The program offers up to $50,000 to support research performed by faculty at a Massachusetts not-for-profit research institution that are seeking to research and understand women’s health and gender biology. Applications are due by January 28, 2022. Apply now.
Angel Investor Tax Credit Program: The program provides a taxpayer investor a credit of 20% of the qualifying investment, or 30% if the business is located in a gateway municipality, in a business that has no more than $500,000 in gross revenues in the year prior to eligibility. Deadline of January 14, 2022 at noon for submission of applications for qualifying investments made during the period October 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021. Apply now.

Opportunities to Engage

Applications open for M2D2 IMPACT Accelerator Cycle 2IMPACT supports bringing your Medical Device or Biotech Innovation to market. Each cycle is aligned with sponsor Areas of Interest and mentor driven to help move forward your milestones. Apply before 11:59 p.m. on Nov. 30 for the chance to work directly with BARDA and M2D2’s exclusive resources for startups.2021 BioMAN Summit on “Technologies to Expand the Reach of Cell and Gene Therapies”MIT CBI’s BioMAN Consortium will host the 2021 BioMAN Summit, which brings together thought leaders from industry, academia, and government for a series of invited presentations that will identify what innovative cell and gene therapies are advancing through the development pipeline in the immuno-oncology space and across other disease indications; explore what the cell and gene therapy ‘factory of the future’ looks like and how it will meet the technical and logistical challenges of scaled-up or scaled-out manufacturing; and more. Dec. 16-17, 2021

Accepting Applications

Angel Investor Tax Credit ProgramEncourages investment throughout the Commonwealth and in our gateway municipalities offering a tax credit to accredited investors interested in funding early-stage companies* engaged in life sciences research and development, commercialization and manufacturing.Deadline: Jan. 14, 2022
First Look AwardsSupports translational research at Massachusetts research institutions that furthers our understanding of sex and gender differences especially for diseases or conditions that affect women exclusively, predominately, or differentially. Deadline: Jan. 28, 2022
Copyright © 2020 Massachusetts Life Sciences Center,  All rights reserved.1075 Main Street, Waltham, MA 02451Want to change how you receive these emails?You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.
Supporting Entrepreneurship Across the Sector, Throughout the Commonwealth
MLSC President and CEO Kenn Turner had the privilege of taking part in two opportunities this past week supporting entrepreneurship across the life sciences sector and throughout the Commonwealth.
 
On Feb. 24, President Turner provided opening remarks at the MedTech IGNITE Live Pitch Event organized by MassMEDIC. Six MedTech IGNITE finalists presented at the virtual gathering in front of a panel of judges and an audience of nearly 200. In the past year, 22 startups participated in the MedTech IGNITE program that offers mentorship, networking and master classes with experts in medical device corporate strategy, financing, legal, regulatory, and product design. The MLSC is a proud IGNITE partner.
 
Later in the week, President Turner announced the runner up and winner of the 2021 Berkshire Manufacturing Innovation Challenge (BMIC) organized by Lever. The MLSC partnered with Lever to implement a series of six entrepreneur challenges to grow the ecosystem for health technology-related startups in Western Massachusetts. MLSC-funded Challenge winners have raised more than $6.5 million in dilutive and non-dilutive funding, and 75 percent of these teams are founded by women.
 
MLSC Vice President of Industry Strategy and Investments Jennifer Griffin served on the judging panels for both the IGNITE and BMIC events. Watch President Turner’s BMIC Remarks here.
What We’re Reading
Timmerman Report: Biotech as a Beacon for Youth
Key Quote: "Biotech can choose to invest in people, equipment, and places to get ready for this manufacturing boom."
 
BioSpace: NIH Flooded Massachusetts with Research Grants in 2020
Key Fact: The Genetown Hotbed has several biopharma companies that received significant funds from the NIH. Among the top 10 are a significant number of enterprises that have received support through MLSC programming.
Apply Today: Upcoming Program Deadlines
Women's Health Innovation Grants (Deadline: March 12, 2021) to support translational research in women’s health and gender biology that will ultimately lead to commercial opportunities that address the lack of innovative technologies.

STEM Equipment and Professional Development Grants (Deadline: March 31, 2021) grants awarded to further advance and expand life sciences education at Massachusetts public high schools and middle schools through implementation of project and inquiry-based curriculum. 

Internship Challenge (applications accepted on a rolling basis) creates internship opportunities for college students interest in pursuing a career in the industry. students studying or living in the state, as well as students enrolled at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, are eligible to apply.

Data Science Internship (applications accepted on a rolling basis) creates new internship opportunities for qualified candidates at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels by enabling research institutions and small life sciences companies to hire paid interns for up to six months.

High School Apprenticeship Challenge (applications accepted on a rolling basis) facilitates and funds paid internships for underrepresented and economically disadvantaged high school students by subsidizing intern wages for small life sciences companies and academic researchers.

Seed Fund (applications accepted on a rolling basis) to advance innovative and promising life science companies in targeted geographies throughout the Commonwealth.
Stay Virtually Engaged
Data Science For All / Code a Better Tomorrow: A free Data Science Program taught by professors from Harvard and MIT is an immersive 13-week (Saturdays only) training program in practical data skills. Entry is merit-based, competitive, and open only to traditionally under-represented students & working professionals. Graduates are connected to the jobs of tomorrow in technology, finance, consulting, sales, marketing, engineering, research, product, and entrepreneur. Apply today!

Panel 4: New Pathways for a Data Science Workforce: The Education Development Center, the MLSC, and MassBioEd are convening a free, four-part panel series focused on growing and diversifying the state’s future Data Science workforce. This final panel will address the question how might EDC's expertise in developing and implementing HS and CC Data Science initiatives form a key element of a sustained, multi-year effort to grow, in collaboration with others, the size and diversity of the state's future Data Science workforce? March 10, 2021, 10-11:30 a.m.
#COVID19MA: Phase III, Step 2 of Reopening Begins Today
The Baker-Polito Administration announced the latest steps to reopen the economy:
  • Phase III, Step 2 begins today, Monday, March 1
  • Phase IV, Step 1 is set to begin Monday, March 22
The Baker-Polito Administration also announced last week a new $4.7 million initiative to promote COVID-19 vaccine equity in the 20 communities most disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Additionally, the Administration announced 11 high-efficiency regional vaccination collaboratives involving local health officials and other regional partners.
 
The vaccine is safe, free and effective. It went through rigorous testing and followed the safety protocols used for all vaccines. When it's your turn, Trust the Facts, Get the Vax. Read more on how to prepare for your COVID-19 vaccine appointment
The Right Time to be a Female Founder in Massachusetts
In an effort to ensure greater gender parity in the next generation of life science entrepreneurs, the MLSC has launched the fourth round of the MassNextGen program, a five-year, more than $2 million commitment. Women-led early-stage life science companies are awarded a year-long customized package of support, funding, and access to a network of seasoned Executive Coaches from the life sciences ecosystem to refine their business strategies and effectively raise capital.

Learn more about the eligibility requirements. Deadline to apply is Feb. 12.
Apply Today: Upcoming Program Deadlines
Tax Incentive Program (Deadline: Feb. 5, 2021) to create long-term jobs, build a robust workforce, and propel the development of new therapies, devices, and scientific advancements that are improving patient health and well-being.

MassNextGen (Deadline: Feb. 12, 2021) to shift the paradigm to build a diverse ecosystem with equal representation. Supporting women-led early-stage life science companies with non-dilutive grant funding and access to a network of seasoned Executive Coaches.

STEM Equipment and Professional Development Grants (Deadline: March 31, 2021) grants awarded to further advance and expand life sciences education at Massachusetts public high schools and middle schools through implementation of project and inquiry-based curriculum. 

Women's Health Innovation Grants (Deadline: March 12, 2021) to support translational research in women’s health and gender biology that will ultimately lead to commercial opportunities that address the lack of innovative technologies.

Internship Challenge (applications accepted on a rolling basis) creates internship opportunities for college students interest in pursuing a career in the industry. students studying or living in the state, as well as students enrolled at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, are eligible to apply.

Data Science Internship (applications accepted on a rolling basis) creates new internship opportunities for qualified candidates at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels by enabling research institutions and small life sciences companies to hire paid interns for up to six months.

High School Apprenticeship Challenge (applications accepted on a rolling basis) facilitates and funds paid internships for underrepresented and economically disadvantaged high school students by subsidizing intern wages for small life sciences companies and academic researchers.

Seed Fund (applications accepted on a rolling basis) to advance innovative and promising life science companies in targeted geographies throughout the Commonwealth.
Stay Virtually Engaged
Panel 3: Enhanced Strategies to Increase Diversity
The Education Development Center, the MLSC, and MassBioEd are convening a free, four-part panel series focused on growing and diversifying the state’s future Data Science workforce. This panel session will will focus on growing the Data Science workforce to increase its diversity and what have we learned from recent experience that might inform best practices? Feb. 10, 2021, 10-11:30 a.m.

ISPE Student Career Workshop
Register for the opportunity to refine your resume/cover letter, learn how to build a robust LinkedIn profile, and develop interviewing skills. This year’s workshop features a panel of industry veterans, a recruiter panel, and opportunities for career chats and networking with other emerging young professionals! Jan. 26, 2021, 4-7 p.m.
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Calling All Early-Stage Life Sciences Companies

 

Are you a life sciences start-up company? Join us for a virtual information session to learn more about the Seed Fund, a program designed to support the development of innovative, promising life sciences companies in targeted geographies throughout Massachusetts by investing $250,000 in convertible notes.

Register for Seed Fund Information Session
October 27, 2020, 10:00 am - 11:00 am


The MLSC has expanded to include Beverly, Mansfield, and North Adams to the eligible geographies: Amherst, Lowell, Pittsfield, Springfield, and Worcester. The MLSC encourages early-stage life science companies in all sectors (including Diagnostics, Digital Health/Bioinformatics, Medical Devices, MedTech, and Therapeutics), that have yet to raise their first-priced round, to apply for the Seed Fund program. 

 

 

 

What We're Reading

 

BBJ: Covid gave this startup its first sales. Here’s why it's giving that money away. 
Key Sentence: The nonprofit will be used to funnel the proceeds from sales of the company’s Covid diagnostic test to STEM education and diversity initiatives, starting with the free MIT Media Lab-developed coding initiative Scratch. 

Framingham Source: Eppendorf Moves Operations From New York To Framingham
Key Sentence: The strategic move is to support continued growth by being in closer proximity to world-renowned academic institutions and research centers, top pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and premier hospitals and clinical laboratories.

STAT+: Biotech looking to fight kidney disease launches with $51 million
Key Sentence: A Cambridge biotech that’s working on drugs to reverse kidney disease — rather than merely slow its progression ― was unveiled Tuesday after raising $51 million in venture capital.

 

 

What We're Sharing

 

 

 

 

 

Opportunities to Learn and Engage

 

STAT The Covid-19 pandemic and the race for vaccines, October 13, 2020, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Harvard Medical School
Mental Wellness for Health Professionals: COVID-19 Response and Strategies for the Future, October 13-22, 2020

Alliance for Business Leadership Doing Business in a Pandemic: Resources & Guidance for Small Businesses & Nonprofits, October 14, 2020, 10:00 am - 11:00 am

The Connors Center IGNITE Awards, Applications due: October 14, 2020 at 12:00 pm

MassBioEd Building Self-Awareness & Improving Personal Effectiveness, October 20, 2020, 1:00 pm - October 22, 2020, 3:00 pm

MassBioEd Presenting With Persuasion, Clarity & Strength, October 26, 2020, 10:00 am - October 30, 2020, 12:30 pm 

MLSC Seed Fund Information Session, October 27, 2020, 10:00 am - 11:00 am

 

 

 


Call for Applications: Novel Therapeutics Delivery Program

The MLSC is excited to announce a call for applications for the latest round of its Novel Therapeutics Delivery program to capitalize and incentivize translational projects to address complex challenges in “therapeutic” delivery—from biomanufacturing, to targeted delivery, to biomaterials and more.

Up to $5 million capital dollars is available for the current program round, with each award anticipated to be up to $750,000. Projects must be a collaborative partnership between non-profit applicants and at least one MA company.  Application deadline: December 17, 2020

Join us September 9 at 10:30 am for a virtual meeting to learn about the MLSC's upcoming funding programs including: Bits to Bytes, Novel Therapeutics Delivery, and Women's Health. Register today.




MLSC Announces $750,000 Seed Fund Investments

Last week during the virtual ribbon cutting ceremony for the expansion of the Massachusetts Biomedical Initiatives, Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito announced $750,000 in funding for three Worcester-based early-stage, life sciences companies: 149 Medical, iVexSol, and Nutrimedy. The funding, awarded through the MLSC's Seed Fund, comes in the form of three separate investments of $250,000 convertible notes.

The MLSC’s Seed Fund supports the development of innovative, promising life sciences start-ups in targeted geographies across Massachusetts. With an initial focus on Lowell, Worcester, Springfield, Amherst, and Pittsfield, the MLSC has now also expanded the program to Beverly, Mansfield, and North Adams. Read the full press release.



COVID-19 Updates

Last week the Baker-Polito Administration announced the launch of an effort to encourage residents of the Commonwealth to support their local economies by shopping at local Massachusetts businesses and attractions, safely – in person, online, and using curbside pickup or takeout. The “My Local MA” advertising campaign was developed as a response to the economic impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on Massachusetts local businesses and communities. The website, FindMyLocalMA.com, will feature resources for consumers and more information on the campaign.

Massachusetts' application to FEMA for the Lost Wages Assistance program has been approved. Our administration is now working to implement this program to get eligible claimants the benefits they need. Learn More.

Masks and face-coverings are among the best tools we have to stop the spread of #COVID19MA. Wearing a mask protects you, and also protects your family, friends and neighbors. #MaskUpMA!




What We're Reading

UMass Med News: Massachusetts Life Sciences Center capital funding to support three programs at Medical School
Key Sentence: In total, 17 projects are receiving funding to support the life sciences ecosystem, including three at UMass Medical School.

WBJ: WPI receives $877K to support cell engineering program
Key Sentence: The money will go toward purchasing equipment to create a modular core facility focused on high throughput cell analytics, supporting WPI’s Cell Engineering Research Equipment Suite.

WBJ: Boston life science developer pays $4.7M for Devens sites
Key Quote: "We believe that Devens has the attributes needed to emerge as one of the next life science clusters in Massachusetts over the next few years," Lynch said. 


STAT+: Foundation Medicine wins FDA approval for liquid biopsy able to detect mutations in multiple cancers 
Key Sentence: Foundation Medicine, a Cambridge, Mass., unit of Swiss biopharma Roche, has won the agency’s second nod for a pan-cancer blood assay, which combines liquid biopsy with other kinds of testing to find more diagnostic and genomic biomarkers.


What We're Sharing





Opportunities to Learn and Engage

Harvard Medical School A Framework for Digital Transformation in Health Care, September 2, 2020, 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm

MLSC Funding Programs: Learn about our upcoming funding programs including: Bits to Bytes, Novel Therapeutics Delivery and Women's Health, September 9, 2020, 10:30 am


M2D2 2020 $200K Challenge Pitch-Off & Awards Celebration, September 17, 2020, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

MassBio Transitioning to Leader, For New Managers, September 28, 2020, 9:00 am - October 2, 2020, 11:15 am

MassBio Science Of Biotech 101, October 5, 2020, 9:00 am - October 9, 2020, 11:30 am




$15 Million in Capital Funding Announced
The MLSC continues to embrace its role as a steward of investment and strategy in order for Massachusetts to sustain its leader post in life sciences innovation.

The Baker-Polito Administration and the MLSC announced more than $15 million in capital funding to support life sciences innovation infrastructure, the development of key data repositories, and training for scientists across the Commonwealth. In total, 17 projects are receiving funding to support the life sciences ecosystem. The MLSC awarded funding through its Open Capital program and Bits to Bytes program. Massachusetts Secretary of Housing and Economic Development Mike Kennealy made the announcement during remarks at MALSI+ 2020, a virtual gathering of scientific innovators, entrepreneurs, business leaders, and investors whose groundbreaking work across the globe is addressing life science innovation.
#COVID19MA: Flu Vaccine, Testing Resources for Schools, Stop the Spread Expansion
State public health officials announced that influenza immunization will be required for all children 6 months of age or older who are attending Massachusetts child care, pre-school, kindergarten, K-12, and colleges and universities. The new vaccine requirement is an important step to reduce flu-related illness and ​the overall impact of respiratory illness during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also announced last week were two rapid response testing initiatives for schools to address potential clusters of COVID-19 cases among students, teachers or staff at a school building. Additionally, the Bake-Polito Administration announced the addition of new communities to its Stop the Spread initiative, which provides free asymptomatic testing in targeted communities across MA. In total, 20 communities are part of this program, which runs through September 12.

Stay informed about COVID-19 by visiting mass.gov, for the latest updates and information, including the recent announcement of $3.3 million in grants to address urgent food insecurity for Massachusetts residents as a result of COVID-19.

P.S. Remember to #MaskUpMA
Join Us Tomorrow: MBI StartUp & ScaleUp Center Virtual Ribbon Cutting
Please join the MLSC and our partners at Massachusetts Biomedical Initiatives (MBI) tomorrow, August 25, at 2 p.m., to celebrate the virtual ribbon cutting of MBI’s new StartUp & ScaleUp Centers at 17 Briden Street, Worcester, MA, made possible by a $3.5 million MLSC Capital Grant.

The gathering will also serve as an opportunity for an exciting update relative to the MLSC’s Seed Fund program. The Seed Fund’s mission is to advance innovative and promising life science companies in targeted geographies throughout the Commonwealth by working with partners to leverage resources and promote economic development.
What We're Reading
Boston Business Journal: Charles River Laboratories acquires Memphis biotech
Key Sentence: Cellero’s Memphis operations employ about half of its more than 30 companywide employees and leads the way on human-derived biological materials.


STAT+: J&J to buy Momenta Pharma in a bid to bolster autoimmune disease pipeline
Key Sentence: The centerpiece of the deal is a Momenta drug called nipocalimab, which works by blocking a molecule in the body called neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn). When activated, FcRn can trigger certain types of autoimmune diseases.

WBJ: Pandemic helping Greater Boston's life science industry, including outlying areas
Key Sentence: That growth comes from both a demand for advances in health technology and treatments as well as life science firms' push toward the suburbs, where they can spread out more safely with lab space.
What We're Sharing
Opportunities to Learn and Engage
MassBio State of Possible Conference, Annual Meeting August 26, 2020, 8:00 am - August 27, 2020, 5:00 pm

Harvard Medical School A Framework for Digital Transformation in Health Care, September 2, 2020, 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm

MassBio Kickstart Your Social Media Blueprint During a Pandemic, September 3, 2020, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

LaunchBIO A Seat at the Table--Learning from Black Entrepreneurs, Investors and Executives September 9,2020 1:00 pm

M2D2 2020 $200K Challenge Pitch-Off & Awards Celebration, September 17, 2020, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 
MLSC Funding Helping Power Drug Discovery and Development with Images
The Imaging Platform at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, together with 12 industry and non-profit partners, has launched a new collaboration to create a massive cell-imaging dataset, displaying more than 1 billion cells responding to over 140,000 small molecules and genetic perturbations.

This initiative received funding through the MLSC’s Bits to Bytes capital program, which aims to drive life science innovation in Massachusetts in the area of Big Data by providing open access to data, enabling multiple groups to leverage this data, which will, in turn, accelerate discovery and fill an existing funding gap for biomedical research.

Read more on the Joint Undertaking in Morphological Profiling with Cell Painting (JUMP-CP).
$19.6M in Critical Funding for Municipalities
This past week, the Baker-Polito Administration announced $19.6 million for municipalities to address emergency needs in light of the Coronavirus pandemic. This funding will support 181 communities in their work to provide vital services to low-income residents and small businesses affected by the recent outbreak.

Local governments and regional consortiums will fund social services, including homelessness prevention, food pantries and assistance, and job training for in-demand health care workers and technicians. Many communities will also make grants available for local small businesses with five or less employees. 36 lead awardees will organize within their respective municipality or region to deliver services.
Ensuring COVID-19 Compliance / Stop the Spread
Thousands of businesses are doing their part to implement COVID-19 health and safety standards. However, in cases where people believe safety protocols are not being observed, the public and employees can now use this site to help ensure compliance.

The Commonwealth’s Stop the Spread initiative is up and running. As a reminder, free testing sites are open in Chelsea, Everett, Fall River, Lawrence, Lowell, Lynn, Marlborough, and New Bedford, communities that will benefit from increased testing, including for asymptomatic people. This testing will be available July 10-August 14. Visit mass.gov/stopthespread to find testing locations.
What We're Reading
ENDPOINT NEWS: Massachusetts biotech Revitope scores first collaboration thanks to dual-engaging T cell platform
Key Sentence: Revitope, Arkinstall said, has developed a technology platform known as TEAC — T Cell Engaging Antibody Circuit — that utilizes dual-antigen targeting and allows drug candidates to be as precise as possible.


BBJ: Roche pays $775M upfront for Cambridge biotech’s sophomore cancer drug
Key Sentence: The medication, known as pralsetinib or BLU-667, is designed for cancers linked to the RET gene. That includes non-small cell lung cancer and multiple types of thyroid cancer.

Xconomy: Dewpoint, Merck Team Up to Tackle HIV Using Condensate Know-How
Key Sentence: Dewpoint Therapeutics has signed its second biopharma partnership, teaming up with Merck to explore the potential of using its discoveries around “droplets” of biomolecules that form inside cells to create a new HIV treatment.
What We're Sharing
Opportunities to Learn and Engage
The Boston Globe Kids And COVID-19 July 21, 2020, 12:00 pm - 12:45 pm

MassBio Town Hall W/ Special Guest Brandon Monk, Takeda, On The Promise Of Plasma-Derived Therapies July 21, 2020, 11:00 am - 11:30 am

BBJ Virtual 2020 Race Ahead: Moving Forward Together July 23, 2020, 8:30 am - 9:45 am

MassBio COVID-19: How’s Reopening Going In Biotech Labs? Forum & Breakout Chats On Lessons Learned So Far July 23, 2020, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

STAT Inside the virtual care boom: What happens when the point of care becomes anywhere? July 29, 2020, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

The Massachusetts Technology Transfer Center MALSI+ 2020 Digital Conference August 20, 2020, 9:30 am - 3:30 pm
MLSC Convenes Expert Panel on the Future of Imaging and Data Science
Last week, the MLSC convened stakeholders at the Beyond Bits to Bytes event at the Broad Insititute. The focus of the well-attended program was how data is rapidly changing patient care. The gathering featured expert perspectives from industry and academic research partners leading in this space.

The role of data science in life science innovation is rapidly growing and evolving. The information explosion, combined with emerging algorithms, has the potential to reduce the drug discovery timeline, improve patient experience, and provide clinicians with better diagnostic tools. During this time of digital transformation, the potential exists to derive value from a wide variety of data sources, including next-generation sequencing, mass spectrometry, electronic health records, images, and consumer wearables.

The MLSC recently launched the second round of its Bits to Bytes Capital Call, deadline January 23, 2020, to provide funding for projects that will generate and analyze large datasets to answer pressing life science questions, and train data scientists in the Commonwealth. The inaugural round of Bits to Bytes provided $6.7 million in capital funding to nine data-driven, cross-sector projects focused on imaging, cancer, neuroscience, drug discovery, and clinical trial design. The MLSC also recently launched its Advanced Analytics/Data Science Internship Program, focused on enhancing the availability of advanced analytics/data science talent in life sciences.

Read the full article: ‘Data is King’: Massachusetts Life Sciences Center convenes gathering on future of imaging and data science
What We're Reading
Curbed Boston: The Boston area’s booming life sciences industry and why it matters for real estate
Key Sentence: That’s because the Boston area has become the national capital of the life sciences industry. A February 2019 report from commercial brokerage CBRE put the region at or near the top of just about every measure of the industry’s health.

Forbes: A Pharma Startup Launches With $200 Million In Funding And A Strategy To Make Drugs Faster, Cheaper
Key Sentence: Their startup EQRX came out of stealth on Sunday with $200 million in funding from Andreessen Horowitz, ARCH Venture Partners and GV, and an ambitious goal to develop ten new medications in the next ten years. They plan to do this by focusing exclusively on known biological targets and relying heavily on technology.

WBJ: Plans advancing for Worcester's Reactory site
Key Sentence: WuXi would be a major boon for the project and for Worcester, with the site becoming the company's first American biomanufacturing facility. The 110,000 square-foot facility would employ 150 workers and be tentatively built next to pharmaceutical firm AbbVie on Belmont Street.

FiercePharma: Blueprint wins first FDA nod for a stomach cancer—though not exactly what it asked for
Key Sentence: The FDA on Thursday greenlighted Blueprint’s Ayvakit, also known as avapritinib, for patients with rare gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) carrying a platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRα) exon 18 mutation. It's the drug's first step toward building a blockbuster-worthy list of targeted FDA approvals
What We're Sharing
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Events
How The MassBio Community Can Accelerate Positive Transportation Solutions For MA
When: January 28, 2020, 8:00 am - 10:00 am
Where: MassBio, 300 Technology Square, 8th Fl, Cambridge
This MassBio forum will provide members with a better, more critical understanding of the state of transit in Massachusetts. Our panel, representing local and national associations, advocacy groups, and public agencies will highlight a transportation vision for MA, the current state of transit including challenges and opportunities, and positive solutions proposed or in the works.

Venture Funding Happy Hour at M2D2!
When: February 24, 2020, 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Where: M2D2, 110 Canal Street, 4th Fl, Lowell
Startups: If you’re committed to your business vision, then you MUST start planning for venture financing.

2020 M2D2 $200K Challenge Pitch-Off
When: March 25, 2020, 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Where: University Crossing, 220 Pawtucket St, Lowell
Join the New England life sciences community as a global field of medical device and biotech innovators pitch their ideas to our investor panel for a share of a $200,000!

Driving Health Care Strategy: Insights from Inside the Ecosystem
When: April 28, 2020 - April 30, 2020
Where: Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St., Boston
This Harvard Medical School Executive Education program is an intensive experience where participants learn from leading HMS faculty experts while networking with a cohort of professional peers.

To check out upcoming life sciences events happening throughout our ecosystem, click here.  Submit your event here.
After Four Years of Successful Leadership, McCready Steps Down
Travis McCready, after more than four years of successful leadership of the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, stepped down from his role as President and CEO, January 8, 2020.

Mr. McCready oversaw a period of tremendous growth and output during his tenure at the Life Sciences Center. Through a collaborative strategy with regionalization and equity at its core, the MLSC and its partners were able to steward a period of immense success in expanding life sciences growth outside of Boston and Cambridge. We thank him for his contributions and wish him well in his future endeavors.

Timothy J. McGourthy, Deputy Secretary at Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development will assume the interim role of Acting President and CEO of the MLSC.

Read the full press release: Baker-Polito Administration Announces Leadership Transition at Massachusetts Life Sciences Center
2020 Internship Programs Now Open
The MLSC is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2020 Internship Challenge, High School Apprenticeship Challenge, and the Advanced Analytics/Data Science Internship Program.  Our internship programs exemplify the MLSC's commitment to ensuring that students are prepared for career success in this vibrant industry and to build a talent pipeline that meets the industry’s growing need for a well-prepared workforce. 

The Internship Challenge creates over 550 new internship opportunities each year for college students interested in pursuing careers in the industry. The program connects Massachusetts companies with students and provides funding that enables small companies, with 100 or fewer employees, to hire paid interns for up to 12 weeks. Undergraduates and Master’s students studying or living in the state are eligible to apply. Apply today>>


The High School Apprenticeship Challenge creates over 150 summer internship opportunities for high school students interested in STEM.  Students are eligible to apply for six-week paid internships with research institutions and life sciences companies. Students must be Massachusetts high school students and 16 years or older to qualify. Apply today >>

The new Advanced Analytics/Data Science Internship Program focuses on enhancing the availability of advanced analytics/data science talent in life sciences. In this pilot year, the program will create internship opportunities for qualified candidates at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels by enabling research institutions and companies to hire paid interns for up to six months. Apply today >>
What We're Reading
BioSpace: Top Life Sciences Startups to Watch in 2020
Key Sentence: To come up with this list, BioSpace sorted companies into that age grouping, and they were then weighted by a number of different categories and finally ranked in a cumulative fashion, based on the points awarded for each category. These categories were: Finance, Collaborations, Pipeline, and Innovation.

FierceBiotech: Allurion nets $34M to market its swallowable weight-loss balloon
Key Quote: “Allurion’s cutting-edge approach to one of the world’s largest unmet medical needs has the company poised for long-term success,” said Marijn Dekkers, founder and chairman of Novalis LifeSciences and former CEO of Bayer and Thermo Fisher Scientific. “I believe that the company’s rapid growth is further evidence that its weight loss program has an attractive value proposition for both consumers and physicians.”

Boston Globe: A worker shortage for life sciences
Key Sentence: According to a report released last month by the Massachusetts Biotechnology Education Foundation, there has been a 35 percent increase in life sciences jobs in the state over the past decade. 
What We're Sharing
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Events
MLSC Tax Incentive Web Info Session
When: January 15, 2020, 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Where: Webinar
The info session will provide an overview of the Tax Incentive Program, including eligibility requirements, various tax incentives available, explanation of the application process, and the timeline for awards.

Life Science Cares Partner Pitch Event
When: January 22, 2020, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Where: CIC Cambridge, One Broadway, Cambridge, MA
Learn about local nonprofits in a low-pressure environment and network with peers.

How The MassBio Community Can Accelerate Positive Transportation Solutions For MA
When: January 28, 2020, 8:00 am - 10:00 am
Where: MassBio, 300 Technology Square 8th Fl, Cambridge, MA
This MassBio forum will provide members with a better, more critical understanding of the state of transit in Massachusetts. Our panel, representing local and national associations, advocacy groups, and public agencies will highlight a transportation vision for MA, the current state of transit including challenges and opportunities, and positive solutions proposed or in the works.

Venture Funding Happy Hour at M2D2!
When: February 24, 2020, 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Where: M2D2, 110 Canal Street, 4th Floor, Lowell, MA
Startups: If you’re committed to your business vision, then you MUST start planning for venture financing.

To check out upcoming life sciences events happening throughout our ecosystem, click here.  Submit your event here.
What We're Reading 
BBJ: One particular field of drug development could dominate M&A in 2020
Key Sentence: Massachusetts life science companies were involved in $34 billion worth of M&A deals this year. But experts say next year will be even busier.

ENDPOINT NEWS: Allergan gets a win: FDA approves ubrogepant as cascade of treatments reshape migraine field
Key Sentence: The drug, branded Ubrelvy, is the latest in a series of migraine drug approvals that have begun to reshape an often debilitating ailment the FDA estimates affects 37 million Americans.

STAT: 3 stories to watch in health tech in 2020
Key Sentence: Judging by the numbers, digital health companies had another huge year in 2019. Total investment in the sector was expected to reach a record $8.4 billion, as firms raked in cash to develop novel wearables, personalized digital services, and machine learning tools to improve treatment of debilitating diseases.
What We're Sharing
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Events
Post-Seed Venture Capital: What Is It? Is it Right for Me?
When: January 8, 2020, 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Where: M2D2, 110 Canal Street, 4th Floor, Lowell
Even if your startup is brand-new, NOW is the time to map out your complete business growth path — all the way to venture financing.

MLSC Tax Incentive Info Session
When: January 10, 2020, 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Where: MLSC Office, 1075 Main Street, Suite 100, Waltham
In order to expand life sciences-related employment opportunities, promote health-related innovations and stimulate research and development, manufacturing and commercialization in the life sciences, the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center is pleased to announce that it is offering tax incentives to companies engaged in life sciences research and development, commercialization and manufacturing in Massachusetts. The primary goal of the program is to incentivize life sciences companies to create new long-term jobs in Massachusetts.

Beyond Bits to Bytes: Looking to the Future in Imaging and Data Science
When: January 13, 2020, 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Where: Broad Institute, 415 Main Street, Cambridge
The role of data science in life science innovation is rapidly growing and evolving. If harnessed, the information explosion has the potential to catalyze new discoveries and treatments in healthcare to benefit patients in need. During this time of digital transformation, the potential exists to derive value from a wide variety of data sources, including next generation sequencing, mass spectrometry, electronic health records, images, and consumer wearables.

Recombinant Antibody and Biosimilars course
When: January 15, 2020 - January 17, 2020, 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Where: Northeastern University, Innovation Campus at Burlington, 147 S. Bedford Street, Burlington
Northeastern’s BATL offers Recombinant Antibody and Biosimilars course, with lectures and hands-on training.

MLSC Tax Incentive Web Info Session
When: January 15, 2020, 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Where: Webinar
In order to expand life sciences-related employment opportunities, promote health-related innovations and stimulate research and development, manufacturing and commercialization in the life sciences, the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center is pleased to announce that it is offering tax incentives to companies engaged in life sciences research and development, commercialization and manufacturing in Massachusetts. The primary goal of the program is to incentivize life sciences companies to create new long-term jobs in Massachusetts.

To check out upcoming life sciences events happening throughout our ecosystem, click here.  Submit your event here.


MLSC’s Newest Internship Program for Data Science

The MLSC is thrilled to announce the launch of its newest initiative, Advanced Analytics/Data Science Internship Program, to focus on enhancing the availability of advanced analytics/data science talent in the life sciences.  In the program’s pilot year, it will create internship opportunities for qualified candidates at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels by enabling research institutions and companies to hire paid interns for up to 6 months.

Students and post-docs skilled in computational biology, biostatistics, physics, biology, chemistry, economics, etc. with strong computational skills and an interest in applying data science to health outcomes are encouraged to apply.

Learn more about Advanced Analytics/Data Science Internship Program.




What We're Reading 

Xconomy: France-Based Tissium Boosts US Work After Closing €38.75M Series B
Key Quote: “Since the inception of the company Boston was a location that we leveraged a lot in being able to reach out to experts. Now as we are growing and expanding, the US is clearly a central and key market for us to advance,” Tissium CEO, Christophe Bancel, tells Xconomy.

STAT+: Novo Nordisk’s parent company to launch research incubator in Boston
Key Sentence: Novo Holdings, the investment firm behind pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk (NVO), is committing $25 million over five years to a new, early-stage biotech incubator at the Broad Institute, a research center affiliated with both Harvard and MIT.


Bloomberg: Crispr Surges as Gene Editing Shows Promise in Blood Disease
Key Quote: “This is a pretty significant milestone, not just for us as a company but for the entire field. This could be an important landmark in medicine, when we saw the first promise for providing cures for a number of diseases using a gene editing approach.”


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Events

Developing Innovative Leaders in Biotech
When: December 11, 2019, 11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Where: Harvard Medical School Online Webinar
In this webinar, Jeff Karp, PhD, will draw upon his history of bridging academia and industry, starting six companies (including the newly public Frequency Therapeutics), creating multiple products, and raising more than $300 million dollars in venture and philanthropic funding.

Live-Stream at M2D2: The Massachusetts Conference for Women
When: December 12, 2019, 8:15 am - 4:00 pm
Where: M2D2, 110 Canal St 4th floor, Lowell
Come join us at M2D2 for a Live-Stream of the Massachusetts Conference for Women!

Post-Seed Venture Capital: What Is It? Is it Right for Me?
When: January 8, 2020, 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Where: M2D2, 110 Canal Street, 4th Floor, Lowell
Even if your startup is brand-new, NOW is the time to map out your complete business growth path — all the way to venture financing.

Going Beyond the Gut: The Future of Microbiome Therapeutics
When: January 22, 2020, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Where: Broad Institute, 415 Main St, Cambridge
Please join us for a panel discussion led by some of Boston’s most innovative companies in the space to learn about the science behind the microbiome.

To check out upcoming life sciences events happening throughout our ecosystem, click here.  Submit your event here.



Cambridge Startup Receives Seed Funding
Congratulations to Cambridge startup Holobiome and CEO Phil Strandwitz on earning the first investment through the Alexandria Seed Capital Platform. Holobiome is developing novel microbiome therapeutics for diseases of the nervous system by using a mechanism-based approach to look at the gut-brain axis. Proud to see the continued success of an MLSC-portfolio company and excited by the new opportunities Alexandria LaunchLabs and the Alexandria Seed Capital Platform will bring to our ecosystem.

Overall, the MLSC’s approximately 80 portfolio companies have raised more than $700 million since their inception and currently employ around 600 employees. Nearly 20 percent have had an exit event since our first investments in 2009.

Read more on Holobiome and Alexandria LaunchLabs in the Boston Business Journal.
What We're Reading 
BBJ: Holobiome nabs first seed funding from Alexandria's new program
Key Sentence: Until this point, Holobiome has primarily run on seed funding and grants from organizations like the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center and Northeastern University. It signed its first partnership with Johnson & Johnson in 2018, and announced a new collaboration with the pharmaceutical giant last week.

ENDPOINT NEWS: After revamping R&D in a global shakeup, Bayer prepping new labs for an expansion in cancer research at MIT
Key Sentence: The company has snagged a 12-year lease on 62,100 square feet in the 238 Main Street building under construction at MIT.


The Boston Globe: Biopark could be latest sign of Worcester’s revival
Key Sentence: Commuters who want an urban lifestyle without Boston prices are now flocking there, many drawn by the constant parade of restaurant and shop openings.

University World News: Universities hammer out voluntary gender equality plan
Key Quote: “This is the first step towards the full integration of women in leadership positions so that opportunities and equal treatment extends to all sectors and all educational institutions.”
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Events
Kyoto & Boston Present: The Life Sciences Forum
When: April 25, 2019, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where: CIC Boston, 50 Milk Street, 20th Fl., Boston, MA 02110
A 60th Sister City celebration exploring the explosive growth of the life sciences in Boston and Kyoto, Japan. Featuring remarks from Dr. Phillip A. Sharp of M.I.T., Dr. Robert Langer of M.I.T., and Dr. Yasuhiko Tabata of Kyoto University, as well as a moderated panel discussion with industry experts from the MLSC, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, Biogen, and FUJIFILM Pharmaceuticals.


MDG Forum – Pathways to Success for MedTech Innovators
When: May 2, 2019 - May 5, 2019, 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Where: Nutter McClennen & Fish LLP, 155 Seaport Blvd, Boston, MA
This forum will bring together a diverse and experienced panel to discuss strategies for startup conception, funding, development and partnership.

Pluripotency and Reprogramming Symposium
When: May 24, 2019, 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Where: Broad Institute, 415 Main Street, Cambridge, MA
Our second symposium will feature world leaders who will describe their latest advances in stem cell biology and reprogramming.

To check out upcoming life sciences events happening throughout our ecosystem, click here.  Submit your event here.
A Regional Commitment to Life Sciences Growth
The MLSC and its partners are committed to expanding the benefits of our thriving life sciences ecosystem across Massachusetts. We were excited to read about the work of Proverb Agency and the branding of "The Reactory", a uniquely innovative, cutting-edge biomanufacturing park located in Worcester, MA. From a flourishing local ecosystem of biotech and life sciences to unparalleled access to a diverse pool of highly skilled workers, the list goes on for reasons why Worcester isn’t simply manufacturing solutions — it’s building the future.

We were equally emboldened to read about the continued growth on the North Shore, especially with the success being experienced by North Shore InnoVentures in Beverly, MA. The incubator is now in its 10th year, having helped create more than 320 jobs, provided internships for 209 students and attracted more than $310 million in grants and equity funding.
What We're Reading 
ENDPOINTS NEWS: Three biotechs raise $100M+ in funding for gene therapies, cancer vaccines and more
Key Sentence: The Cambridge, MA-based company uses an amphiphile platform to precisely deliver immunogens to the lymphatic system, it says, thereby “orchestrating” an immune response to aggressive cancers.

STAT Plus: Bristol-Myers Squibb turns to an AI startup to accelerate cancer research
Key Quote: “We’re really trying to pull the data together … so real-world insights can become part of the questions you pose and the decisions you make all the way across the continuum of how you do research."


BISNOW: Boston Has The World’s Life Science Crown; Developers Intend To Keep It That Way
Key Sentence: Big pharma’s motivation to move into Massachusetts is due to a mix of factors, like universities churning out new talent each year and a government willing to foster a life science ecosystem with tax incentives. 
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Events
Civic Science Round tables: Teen Dialogues on Sports-Related Brain Injury
When: April 18, 2019, 12:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Where: MassBio/MassBioEd Offices, 300 Technology Square, 8th Floor, Cambridge, MA
This event is designed to engage high school students in discussions on sports-related brain injury (SRBI) with the goal of supporting important decisions they may face that are directly related.

Golden Seeds Boston Office Hours
When: April 24, 2019, 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Where: Babson College, Boston Campus, 100 High Street, Boston, MA
Join Golden Seeds for a special evening office hours at the Babson WINLab. The program will begin with a one-hour funding presentation followed by 30 minutes sessions with angel investors.

Science on State Street
When: April 27, 2019, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Where: Framingham State University, 100 State Street, Framingham, MA
This free event, is open to all who live, work, and play in Metrowest. Guest have the opportunity to explore STEM with fun, high quality interactive activities, demonstrations, and discussions that stimulate further learning about these topics in their everyday life.

To check out upcoming life sciences events happening throughout our ecosystem, click here.  Submit your event here.
The MLSC e-newsletter offers the latest events and news in the life sciences ecosystem.
Share it with your network today!
The Data Challenger: Liz O'Day
Elizabeth “Liz” O’Day, Ph.D., founded Olaris Therapeutics in 2014 with an aim to change the game in how we diagnose and treat patients with life threatening diseases. Through innovative technology and customized algorithms, Liz and her team can understand the metabolomic profile of a patient to determine the most effective treatment option. The fundamental goal or mantra for Olaris is “getting the right drug to the right patient” according to Liz.

Liz is one of the inaugural awardees of theMLSC’s Massachusetts Next Generation Initiative (MassNextGen), a five year, more than $2 million commitment to ensure greater gender parity in the next generation of life science entrepreneurs. The MLSC recently closed its second round application call, receiving 30 applications from women-led life sciences companies. 


Read more about how Liz O'Day grew Olaris Therapeutics with support from MassNextGen, the MLSC  competitive program for women-led early-stage life science companies.
What We're Reading 
ENDPOINT: UPDATED: Feng Zhang, heavyweight collaborators unveil latest CRISPR upstart — a diagnostic company
Key Quote: “Any one technology out there had some really valuable attributes in molecular diagnostics but SHERLOCK brought all of those together,” Rahul Dhanda, a co-founder and diagnostics veteran who took on the CEO role.

STAT: FDA approves first new drug developed for women with postpartum depression
Key Sentence: Brexanolone is the first drug developed by and approved from Sage Therapeutics. The Cambridge based biotech company will market the new medicine under the brand name Zulresso.

BioSpace: Flagship Pioneering Closes $824 Million Fund to Support Companies in Its Cambridge Lab
Key Sentence: The new fund is called the Special Opportunities Fund II. Flagship said the fund will provide further funding to support the growth of companies that originated in its incubator. 
What We're Sharing
Follow the MLSC on social media for the latest events, news, and information.
Events
WIB-Greater Boston: Fifth Annual Lobster Pot Competition
When: March 25, 2019, 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Where: Broad Institute, 415 Main Street, Cambridge, MA
Celebrate Women’s History Month at this pitch event, local women-led startups will make their pitches to leading Boston area women investors. Learn from life science entrepreneurs and investors making an impact.

World Medical Innovation Forum
When: April 8, 2019 - April 10, 2019
Where: The Westin Copley Place Boston, 10 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA
The Forum, a global gathering of health care leaders, will focus on Artificial Intelligence and its growing impact on clinical care. Discounted tickets to MLSC newsletter subscribers.

MassMEDIC’s MedTech Town Hall (Formerly the Annual Conference)
When: May 15, 2019, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Where: Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, 415 Summer St., Boston, MA
The MassMEDIC Annual Conference will showcase the latest emerging technologies and featuring key industry leaders.

To check out upcoming life sciences events happening throughout our ecosystem, click here.  Submit your event here.
Learn More
Why host your own online panel discussions or journal clubs?
  1. Build interactive thought leadership and discussion around important disease topics, devices, drugs, or ways of treating patients
  2. Research to help drive new, meaningful solutions
  3. Less expensive than real life panel discussions
  4. Requires fewer human resources than real life panel discussions
  5. Engages a geographically wider audience than real life panel discussions
  6. Engages an audience at any time of the day
  7. Is more accessible to a tech-savvy audience
The New England Journal of Medicine has been very successful at embracing new models of engagement and continues to be at the cutting edge of delivering meaningful information. You can see a few of their online panel discussions here-

@NEJM Ask the Authors & Experts: Antiinflammatory Therapy with Canakinumab for Atherosclerotic Disease

@NEJM Ask the Authors & Experts: Noninvasive Cardiac Radiation for Ablation of Ventricular Tachycardia

@NEJM Ask the Authors & Experts: Mepolizumab for Eosinophilic Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

@NEJM Ask the Authors & Experts: Romosozumab or Alendronate for Fracture Prevention in Women with Osteoporosis

Happy to help.

For a free demo or to learn more about the Medstro software, please contact Abby Ballou at Abby@medstro.com or by calling 601.667.9470

Weekly Newsletter

From the Desk of Travis McCready

Weekly Newsletter

From the Desk of Travis McCready
Life Sciences News & Updates

BBJ: Maritime research lab planned for Seaport District waterfront
Key Quote: ““There’s a lot of research on automated robots on the water...We’re starting to craft a building that can take those types of tenants.” 


Tech Crunch: Boston-area startups are on pace to overtake NYC venture totals
Key Sentence: “Boston has been the center of the biotech universe forever."

Boston Globe: Starry brings free broadband to Boston public housing
Key Sentence: "The new service is just the first phase of a program called Starry Connect, which aims to deliver free or low-cost broadband services to low-income households in cities served by Starry."
Social Buzz
Events
​If you have an upcoming life science event, feel free to submit the information to be included in a future edition of our newsletter by clicking here

Associate Safety Professional (ASP) Examination Preparation
When:August 28-30, 2018, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Where:MassBio/MassBioEd Offices 300 Technology Square Cambridge, MA 02139

This is a three-day workshop for those preparing for the Associate Safety Professional Examination, leading to the designation/certification of Associate Safety Professional (ASP).

Cell & Gene Therapy Bioprocessing & Commercialization
When:September 4-7, 2018
Where:Hynes Convention Center Boylston Street Boston, MA 

Transforming innovative research to drive the future of cell & gene therapy manufacturing & commercialization. Everything you need in one place with real-world insights, trusted resources & solutions.

MSEN STEM Ecosystem Launch Event
When:September 12, 2018, 12:00 am - 11:59 pm
Where:Framingham State University McCarthy Center, 100 State St. Framingham, MA 01702
Join us for the Official Launch of the MSEN STEM Ecosystem. Come meet our collaborating partners and learn how you can help shape the future of our STEM Ecosystem!

Healthcare Innovation Forum: Blockchain, Al, and Beyond
When:September 13, 2018, 7:30 am - 1:00 pm
Where:M2D2, 600 Suffolk St, 2nd Floor, Lowell, MA 01854
Healthcare startups and medtech innovators: M2D2 is hosting an insightful workshop on leading technologies, new best practices, and business intelligence this September. Act fast: the first 20 sign-up.

    Biotech 101: The Science & Business of Biotech

    When:September 17-18, 2018 , 9:00 am - 4:30 pm
    Where:MassBio/MassBioEd Offices, 300 Technology Square, 8th Floor, Cambridge, MA 02139
    New to the life sciences industry? Do you need to have a better understanding of the science and business models driving the industry? Biotech 101: The Science of Biotech & The Business of Biotech provides a thorough overview of the industry at a reduced cost. The program covers two full days of biotechnology information for non-science professionals who may be working or looking to work in the biopharmaceutical industry.

          Career Opportunities marketing associate

          Join our Massachusetts Life Sciences Center Team! 

          Digital Marketing Internship

          Candidates must have course work and practical experience in communications, digital marketing, content creation, social media, website development, and graphic design. Candidates must have excellent communication, writing and presentation skills as well as experience in content development and the Adobe Creative Suite. Responsibilities include digital marketing and social media, content creation, website management, and digital analytics reporting. Successful candidate will be an energetic, detail-oriented, self-starter with a demonstrated ability to take action and the ability to work under deadlines and manage time effectively. Learn more
          We have paid internship opportunities (marketing, business development, industry programs) available for next semester. Learn more
          Life Sciences News & Updates

          MassLive: Investment in the life sciences sector is critical to Massachusetts' future (Viewpoint)

          Key Quote: “It is critical that we maintain this investment and expand its benefits across the state.”

          Xconomy: UTBio, a Biopharma LGBTQ Group, Grows Fast & Ponders Its Future
          Key Sentence: "I thought there was an opportunity here to bring people together and build a community where one doesn’t exist.” 

          BBJ: Cambridge lab, office vacancies tighten to all-time low
          Key Sentence: "Solutions will be found, because dynamic companies are not going to stifle their growth by not being able to find space...It will get solved.”
          Social Buzz
          Events
          ​If you have an upcoming life science event, feel free to submit the information to be included in a future edition of our newsletter by clicking here

          Associate Safety Professional (ASP) Examination Preparation
          When:August 28-30, 2018, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
          Where:MassBio/MassBioEd Offices 300 Technology Square Cambridge, MA 02139

          This is a three-day workshop for those preparing for the Associate Safety Professional Examination, leading to the designation/certification of Associate Safety Professional (ASP).

          Cell & Gene Therapy Bioprocessing & Commercialization
          When:September 4-7, 2018
          Where:Hynes Convention Center Boylston Street Boston, MA 

          Transforming innovative research to drive the future of cell & gene therapy manufacturing & commercialization. Everything you need in one place with real-world insights, trusted resources & solutions.

          MSEN STEM Ecosystem Launch Event
          When:September 12, 2018, 12:00 am - 11:59 pm
          Where:Framingham State University McCarthy Center, 100 State St. Framingham, MA, 01702
          Join us for the Official Launch of the MSEN STEM Ecosystem. Come meet our collaborating partners and learn how you can help shape the future of our STEM Ecosystem!

          Healthcare Innovation Forum: Blockchain, Al, and Beyond
          When:September 13, 2018, 7:30 am - 1:00 pm
          Where:M2D2, 600 Suffolk St, 2nd Floor, Lowell, MA, 01854
          Healthcare startups and medtech innovators: M2D2 is hosting an insightful workshop on leading technologies, new best practices, and business intelligence this September. Act fast: the first 20 sign-up.

            Biotech 101: The Science & Business of Biotech

            When:September 17-18, 2018 , 9:00 am - 4:30 pm
            Where:MassBio/MassBioEd Offices, 300 Technology Square, 8th Floor, Cambridge, MA, 02139
            New to the life sciences industry? Do you need to have a better understanding of the science and business models driving the industry? Biotech 101: The Science of Biotech & The Business of Biotech provides a thorough overview of the industry at a reduced cost. The program covers two full days of biotechnology information for non-science professionals who may be working or looking to work in the biopharmaceutical industry.

                  Career Opportunities marketing associate

                  Join our Massachusetts Life Sciences Center Team! 
                  Senior Marketing Associate If you are a creative and organized marketing pro who wants to bring your writing, design, social media and event/partnership skills to an interesting job in the field of life sciences then this may be the opportunity for you. If you are a content creator, ready to write and produce powerful impact stories across channels, you'll have the opportunity to bring design, video and great writing to this role across platforms. The role includes lots of variety and the opportunity to build your skills and network in a stimulating environment with a committed team of professionals. We are looking for someone with creative ideas, web content management, marketing planning as well as planning presentations, print materials and e-communications. Bring your relationship-building skills to managing the Center's events and partnerships. Learn more. 

                  We also have paid internship opportunities (marketing, business development, industry programs) available for next semester. Learn more
                  THE IT TRANSFORMATION HEALTH CARE NEEDS
                  When it comes to health care, IT has been largely limited to recordkeeping and billing. But could it have the potential to enhance care delivery and reduce costs? To unleash its true potential, the industry needs to focus IT on the task of collecting, interpreting, and correlating patient data—so that clinicians can diagnose care needs more accurately and cost effectively. This Harvard Business Review article, coauthored by Harvard Business School (HBS) professor Robert Huckman, offers a plan for optimizing the value of IT investments.
                  Read More
                  NEW PROGRAM
                  Accelerating Innovation in Precision Medicine
                  05–07 SEP 2018
                  HBS CAMPUS
                  Precision medicine holds great promise for treating genetic diseases—such as certain types of cancers—but bottlenecks in the system are slowing its progress. To help industry executives address inefficiencies and stimulate progress, HBS Executive Education is pleased to introduce the Accelerating Innovation in Precision Medicine program. This dynamic new offering brings together leaders in science, medicine, business, and technology to push the boundaries of business solutions in precision medicine. As a participant, you will join forces with other leaders to develop game-changing ideas in personalized care.
                  Learn More
                  Managing Health Care Delivery
                  BEGINS 14 OCT 2018
                  HBS CAMPUS
                  Despite the industry’s unprecedented efforts and investments, the demand for improved health care delivery continues. Today, the need to explore and implement innovative reforms is greater than ever. With this challenge in mind, HBS Executive Education offers the Managing Health Care Delivery program for both clinical and administrative professionals. You’ll leave the program with critical management tools, skills, and strategies needed to improve patient care and the effectiveness of delivery systems.
                  Learn More
                  Which Program Is Right for You?
                  Connect with a program advisor to discuss which program fits your goals and experience. You’ll receive a personalized consultation, access to other program resources, and details on related offerings.
                  CONTACT:
                  HBS Executive Education
                  Program Advising Team
                  executive_education@hbs.edu
                  +1.617.495.6555

                  Weekly Newsletter

                  From the Desk of Travis McCready
                  Life Sciences News & Updates

                  The Enterprise: Brockton award-winning biologist has teaching down to a science
                  Key Quote: “That’s the goal, to get these kids ready for the experiences they’ll have in college and career.”
                   
                  Press Release: Institute for Protein Innovation Appoints Wei Yang, PhD as Director of Target Discovery and Sharon Klein as Director of Philanthropy
                  Key Sentence: These appointments follow last month’s unveiling of IPI’s new 12,000 sq. ft. lab and office facility located in Boston’s Longwood Medical Area.
                   
                  BBJ: Mass. biotechs just set an IPO record. Here’s how much each company raised.
                  Key Sentence: As of Saturday, the last day of June, 13 biotechs headquartered in the Bay State had successfully gone public, raising a combined $1.3 billion.
                  Social Buzz
                  Events
                  ​If you have an upcoming life science event, feel free to submit the information to be included in a future edition of our newsletter by clicking here
                  Digital Endpoints with Melissa Ceruolo of MC10
                  When:July 24, 2018, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
                  Where:Havana Room, 5th Floor, CIC, One Broadway, Cambridge, MA, 02142
                  Melissa Ceruolo, VP at MC10 will discuss MC10’s new BioStamp nPointTM, a medical grade wearable sensing system that has achieved 510k approval this May.

                    The False Claims Act: What to Do When the DoJ Comes Knocking
                    When:August 9, 2018, 7:30 am - 9:30 am
                    Where:Cooley LLP, 500 Boylston Street, 14th Floor , Boston, MA, 02116

                    Join Cooley attorneys as we discuss the FCA and its recent applications in healthcare IT and life sciences, DoJ’s current FCA enforcement priorities and what to do when the DoJ comes knocking.

                    MassBio's 24th Golf Classic to benefit MassBioEd Foundation
                    When:September 14, 2018, 7:30 am - 3:30 pm
                    Where:The International, 159 Ballville Rd, Bolton, Ma, 01740
                    All proceeds from this tournament will be used to support the MassBioEd Foundation in fulfilling its mission build a sustainable life sciences workforce in the region.

                      2nd Annual World Congress – Lessons Learned from Rare Disease and Personalized Medicine Approaches
                      When:September 17, 2018- September 18, 2018, 12:00 am - 11:59 pm
                      Where:Royal Sonesta Cambridge, 40 Edwin Land Boulevard, Cambridge, MA., 02142
                      The conference agenda is a mix of presentations, panel discussions and short technology demonstrations that will cover a wide range of strategies for successful drug discovery.

                        DPharm
                        When:September 25, 2018- September 26, 2018 , 12:00 am - 11:59 pm
                        Where:Boston Marriott Copley Place, 10 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02116

                        Disruptive Innovations to Advance Clinical Trials: The Year of All Things Digital, Patient Data Ownership and New Approaches to Optimize Clinical Systems.

                        The Top 5 Pregnancy Tech Startups

                        Disadvantaged new mothers may struggle with access to healthcare. However, the internet and smartphones may be the solution to reaching this population. Click here to check out the top funded pregnancy tech startups that are trying making women's health a priority.

                        Health + Design = Real World Change

                        We can revolutionize health experiences through person-centered design and innovation. Join us and 500 of your friends at HXD from June 26-27 in Boston. 

                        Communication, Creativity and Connected Health: The 2018 MIT Grand Hack

                        From Friday April 13 to Sunday April 15, over 300 attendees gathered for one of the most anticipated events in the Greater Boston healthcare community: MIT Hacking Medicine's fifth annual Grand Hack. Click here to check who won the connected health challenge. 

                        The Top Stroke Tech Therapy Companies In the US

                        According the CDC, someone in the US has a stroke every 40 seconds. Click here to check out the top funded stroke therapy technologies in the US helping to fight against this stat and rehabilitate those who have experienced strokes. 

                        How One Company's Digital Prescription App Will Change Mental Illness Therapy

                        Mental illness is a widespread problem in the US. Pear Therapeutics, a Boston-based digital prescription app plans to solve it with smartphone apps. 

                        The Global Health Track's Scalable Solutions at MIT's Grand Hack

                        Click here to check out who won the first prize on the global health track at MIT's annual hackathon as well as other solutions that will reach impact after the event. 

                        $50K AMA/Google Health Care Interoperability and Innovation Challenge--Call for Submissions!

                        This Challenge is an open call for solutions that allow patients to remotely monitor and manage their healthcare in a manner that places a minimum burden on physicians.

                        The Virtual Healthcare Summit is Coming to Boston!

                        Join experts and innovators to leverage digital disruption in health care to expand your reach and deliver better quality of care. Save $200 on in person attendance with code MedTech.

                        The Top 4 Asthma Tech Startups

                        According to the CDC, the number of people with asthma is growing quickly. While more people than ever before have asthma, it is quickly becoming one of America's costliest diseases, costing $81.9 billion annually. Check out the top startups developing technology to help combat asthma in the US.

                        Why are Poster Sessions Stuck in the Past? 

                        We’re all working to make healthcare more convenient, user friendly and affordable. Click here to find out how ePosterBoards can do the same for your poster session with their all-in-one digital solution. (External Link)

                        Biologics Formulation & Drug Delivery Technologies Summit

                        This Summit joins together scientists and life sciences executives for the only dual topic event on the market dedicated exclusively to biologics. Mention Promo Code MD100 for $100 Savings! 

                        MedTech Resources And Information

                        If you’re building a startup in the Boston area, or want to learn more about the industry, this list is perfect for you.
                        Read more articles on Medtech Boston
                        Healthcare on the Blockchain Innovations & Investment Summit
                        May 1 - Washington, D.C
                        Healthcare Innovations and Investments Summit
                        May 1-2 - Washington, D.C
                        Women in Digital Health: A Fireside Chat with Ashley Reid
                        May 3 - Boston, MA
                        Transforming the Culture of Care
                        May 7 - Boston, MA
                        Investor Pitching: Major League Tryouts
                        May 17 - Cambridge, MA
                        Nurse Hackathon 2018: Hacking the Opioid Crisis
                        May 18 - May 20 - Boston, MA
                        Medtech Conference
                        May 31 - Minneapolis, MN
                        Pulse Finale 2018
                        June 5 - Boston, MA
                        d.Health Summit 2018
                        June 6 - Boston, MA
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                        Featured Event
                        M2D2 $200K Awards Ceremony & Networking Event
                        When: 
                        April 10, 2018
                        Where: Mintz Levin

                        One Financial Center
                        Boston, MA
                        On April 10, after deliberations by the panel of expert judges, awards totaling up to $200,000 will be awarded to the winner of the M2D2 $200K awards ceremony hosted by Mintz Levin. There will be full reception with food, drink and networking before the awards ceremony. Travis McCready, President and CEO of the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center will be the keynote speaker that evening. For more information and to register, click here.

                        KEY QUOTE: “The Massachusetts life sciences cluster is no longer just in Cambridge and Boston but has expanded to towns across the Commonwealth, where lab space, manufacturing facilities, and office space are more accessible and affordable.”
                        BBJ: Medtech startups to vie for $200K prize at UMass Lowell eventKEY SENTENCE: “The winner, to be announced April 10, will receive $200,000 worth of in-kind resources.”
                        Wicked Local Cambridge: New program hopes to open biotech’s doors to Cambridge studentsKEY FACT: In contrast to the original biotechnology program, which is research-based and which will continue, the new program will offer students a more direct pathway to employment by experiencing and gaining skills in what local biotech and pharmaceutical firms do, and at the same time preparing them for their post-secondary academic pursuits
                        KEY SENTENCE: Lumicell’s technology can serve as a way for surgeons to scavenge for residual cancer cells during a patient’s first surgery, potentially saving them from needing a second operation.
                        Life Sciences News & Updates

                        Social Buzz
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                        Events

                        ​If you have an upcoming life science event, feel free to submit the information to be included in a future edition of our newsletter by clicking here. 
                        MedMates 2nd Annual Life Sciences Expo
                        When: April 4, 2018, 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
                        Where: Omni Providence Hotel, 1 W Exchange Street, Providence, Rhode Island

                        This 2nd annual Life Sciences Expo will showcase the exciting growth and diversity of the life sciences in Rhode Island and Southeastern New England.  Learn more
                        RISE:2018
                        When: April 5, 2018, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
                        Where: Cabot Physical Education Center, 400 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA

                        Welcome to RISE, Northeastern’s premier Research, Innovation and Scholarship Expo! RISE consists of two integrated events: the RISE Expo and the RISE Awards. Learn more
                        Project Management for Success in Scientific Research
                        When: April 5, 2018, 2:00 pm - 5:30 pm
                        Where: Partners Innovation, 215 First St, Boston, MA

                        Researchers will have the opportunity to build a high-level project plan for their own projects as well as receive feedback on the plan from both expert instructors and scientific peers. Learn more
                        Science 1st: Innovation in Spine Surgery – Evidence-Based Medicine
                        When: April 6, 2018, 3:00 pm - 5:30 pm
                        Where: UMass Medical School, 55 North Lake Avenue, Worcester, MA

                        The panel discussion will focus on innovation in spine surgery to improve clinical outcomes. Learn more
                        3rd Annual Advanced Biomanufacturing Symposium
                        When: April 9-10, 2018
                        Where: Ruben Campus Center, Worcester Polytechnic Institute
                        Join us for the 3rd annual WPI Advanced Biomanufacturing Symposium, a two-day event focused on emerging technologies that will have a significant impact on the biomanufacturing industry in the near term. This year we focus on advancements in protein therapeutics and emerging technologies, and the best practices and challenges of manufacturing cell and tissue therapies. Learn More
                        BioXchange @ Bonefish Grill (Waltham, MA)
                        When: April 11, 2018, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
                        Where: Bonefish Grill, 99 3rd Ave., Waltham, MA

                        April’s BioXchange event is moving back out to Waltham. It is being sponsored by Alcami. The event will be held at the Bonefish Grill in Waltham located conveniently right off of Interstate 95. Learn more
                        Quantitative Systems Pharmacology (QSP) Day
                        When: April 12, 2018, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
                        Where: MIT Samberg Conference Center, 50 Memorial Dr., Cambridge, MA

                        QSP Day is a free conference dedicated to mathematical modeling in drug research and development. Learn more
                        Data Integrity and Your Software Vendor
                        When: April 12, 2018, 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm
                        Where: Worcester Polytechnic Institute Gateway 1, 1st Floor, Room 1002, 60 Prescott Street, Worcester, MA

                        Join the Boston Area Chapter of the ISPE and find out where software tools in the life science industry are headed! Presentations will follow ISPE’s Annual Student Poster Contest. Learn more
                        WIB-Boston Launches Mentors, Advisors, and Peers (MAPs) Program with Guest Speaker Joanne Kamens
                        When: April 12, 2018, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
                        Where: Goodwin Procter, 100 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA

                        Join WIB-Greater Boston and special guest, Addgene Executive Director, Joanne Kamens, Ph.D., as we officially launch our Mentors, Advisors, and Peers (MAPs) Program on Thursday, April 12, 2018Learn more
                        2018 World Medical Innovation Forum – Artificial Intelligence
                        When: April 23, 2018 - April 25, 2018
                        Where: Westin Copley Place Boston, 10 Huntington Avenue Boston, MA

                        The World Medical Innovation Forum, hosted by Partners HealthCare, is a global gathering of more than 1,000 senior health care leaders in the heart of Boston. It was established to respond to the intensifying transformation of health care and its impact on innovation. Learn more

                        Job Postings
                        Business Development Internship - Massachusetts Life Sciences Center
                        The ideal candidate will work closely with the Associate Director of Business Development to develop an aggressive business development strategy to encourage both new company arrivals and the expansion of companies already in Massachusetts, to foster creative partnerships, and to ensure broad utilization of MLSC programs. The candidate will participate in market research projects, BD outreach, and maintain customer relationship database. To view the full job description, please click here. To apply, please email our Business Development team here.
                        Marketing/Communications Internship - Massachusetts Life Sciences Center
                        The communications Intern is responsible for assisting with communications activities to include writing, press releases, press list development and outreach, events, photography, graphic design, web content development, public relations planning and other critical projects that may arise. This volunteer position offers the opportunity to gain valuable, hands-on public relations, marketing, communications, events, and government relations experience. College credit is available. To view the full job description and to apply, please click here.

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