I cannot believe what I have witnessed over the last two days. Informative sessions, amazing keynote addresses, partnering deals, new innovative technologies all neatly arranged in a corridor, and best of all, people enjoying the regional bioscience industry as much as I do. I had the absolute pleasure of sitting in on one of the first bioscience ‘fireside chats’ with Fred Hassan…I truly felt honored. It was amazing to hear from someone who has had so many great experiences in the bioscience industry…I was unable to bring my BioStrength Locator to Biotech 2009 due to the fact that it would have been sounding its overload alarms constantly…and that would not have bode well with the panelists and moderators in the fantastic sessions I attended…unfortunately we have yet to develop the technology for a vibrate feature on the BSLs…
As I walked up and down the Innovation Corridor, I was astounded…this is innovation at its absolute finest…scientists and researchers all trying to gain exposure for their hard work and dedication to the industry…Biotech 2009 was the perfect venue for them! I hope that they all are extremely proud of the work that they have done…as Dave Holveck said…In the end, all patients want, is to get better. The companies and individuals at Biotech 2009, can truly make this dream, a reality.
As I was getting my HelixPod ready early this morning, powering the thrusters for a long journey back to Beakeris, I was remembering all of the wonderful companies and research institutions I have visited on my journey. From the fantastic Science Center and their Green Roof, to Astra Zeneca in Delaware, to Lehigh University and their virtual classrooms, to the great Nano @ Penn State programs and their labs on chips (and delicious ice cream, which I have cryogenically frozen in order to bring back to Beakeris), to the great incubators of New Jersey including the Commercialization Center for Innovative Technologies, and finally, the memory that will forever remain, Biotech 2009. I will not forget how hospitable you, the people of Earth, and more specifically, the people of the preeminent bioscience industry of Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, have been to me over the past two months. The Helixes of Beakeris are forever in your debt. On my journey home, I will compile my notes for the Grand Centrifugium Assembly, there is absolutely no doubt they will be pleased. To all my friends at Pennsylvania Bio and BioNJ, thank you for all of your hard work to make Biotech 2009, a reality. We will welcome you always to Beakeris with open strands. To the companies and research institutions I was not able to visit on this adventure, feel comfortable knowing that I will return back to Earth as soon as I can gain intergalactic approval once again. Hopefully, for a longer, more investigative stay, as I know, I have left a few stones unturned.
I, Helixman, protector of all things innovative, and investigator of all things interesting, am honored to have been a representative of Beakeris in your region. My journey will be an epic story that will be told for hundreds and hundreds of years to come. You all should be proud of the work you do. It is because of you, that your population is living longer, healthier, and happier lives. I feel comfortable leaving, knowing that the bioscience industry is in safe hands while I’m gone.
Until we meet again.
Helixman
November 18, 2009
November 17, 2009
Biotech 2009...I'm Finally Here.
I've waited in anticipation for these two days to arrive...and they finally have...with full force. My first stop was at the registration table to receive my Biotech 2009 badge of honor...unfortunately investigator of all things interesting, and protector of all things innovative, would not fit on the space provided. My head was spinning as I sat in on sessions that I have been looking forward to since August...Regulatory; Drug Delivery, Device and Diagnostics; Growth Strategies...this is better than I could have ever imagined...hundreds of fellow bioscience information seekers lining the corridors of the Pennsylvania Convention Center...and what a grand space this is!
I was in the plenary session with Congressmen Gerlach and Dent, along with the great United States Senator Arlen Specter...they spoke about the ongoing issues with health care reform legislation...and its possible effects on the bioscience industry...this is what I need to focus my HelixBrain onto...take me to DC! Let the protector of innovation decide what is right for the industry!
As I left the session...my mind racing from all of the morning activities...I focused my sights on the company presentations...I was lucky I could find a seat in the room...considering they were standing room only...it was incredible the immense amount of interest in these companies...I couldn't wait to report my findings back to the Grand Centrifugium Assembly...
After the afternoon plenary session...on the overall state of the industry...I was rejuvinated...I saw a bright future for this industry that I live to protect...I wandered around the halls and saw my Earthly equals, the Pennsylvania Bio and BioNJ teams, as they worked hard to make sure all attendees enjoyed their Biotech 2009 experience.
The best however, was apparently saved for last. The keynote dinner...with Congressman Jim Greenwood, president and CEO of BIO, and Dave Holveck, president and CEO of Endo Pharmaceuticals. After Congressman Greenwood's opening remarks, the crowd ate dinner...but I was too excited to eat...the anticipation was growing as I hung on every word Jeff Libson, one of the symposium co-chairs, proclaimed as he introduced Dave Holveck. The keynote address was everything I was expecting it to be and more...focused on the changing landscape of the industry...new dynamics, things that will never change...in the end...we do this for the patients...who just want to get better. These words rang out like a bell in my HelixBrain. We do this for the patients....who just want to get better.
I was surprised to hear that Mickey Flynn, fearless leader of Pennsylvania Bio, and Debbie Hart, BioNJ's fearless leader, recognized Beakeris, and my presence in their closing remarks...these are fantastically large strides for my people and my planet...I am forever grateful to both of these innovation protectors for their recognition. But...I was even more surprised when my picture appeared on the incredibly large video transmission screens! Apparently my travels and research logs have been read across the bioscience world!
Day one of Biotech 2009 was better than I could have ever imagined. This is the beginning of a great adventure.
I will submit another transmission in a few short hours...Day two of Biotech 2009 awaits!
Until next time.
Helixman
I was in the plenary session with Congressmen Gerlach and Dent, along with the great United States Senator Arlen Specter...they spoke about the ongoing issues with health care reform legislation...and its possible effects on the bioscience industry...this is what I need to focus my HelixBrain onto...take me to DC! Let the protector of innovation decide what is right for the industry!
As I left the session...my mind racing from all of the morning activities...I focused my sights on the company presentations...I was lucky I could find a seat in the room...considering they were standing room only...it was incredible the immense amount of interest in these companies...I couldn't wait to report my findings back to the Grand Centrifugium Assembly...
After the afternoon plenary session...on the overall state of the industry...I was rejuvinated...I saw a bright future for this industry that I live to protect...I wandered around the halls and saw my Earthly equals, the Pennsylvania Bio and BioNJ teams, as they worked hard to make sure all attendees enjoyed their Biotech 2009 experience.
The best however, was apparently saved for last. The keynote dinner...with Congressman Jim Greenwood, president and CEO of BIO, and Dave Holveck, president and CEO of Endo Pharmaceuticals. After Congressman Greenwood's opening remarks, the crowd ate dinner...but I was too excited to eat...the anticipation was growing as I hung on every word Jeff Libson, one of the symposium co-chairs, proclaimed as he introduced Dave Holveck. The keynote address was everything I was expecting it to be and more...focused on the changing landscape of the industry...new dynamics, things that will never change...in the end...we do this for the patients...who just want to get better. These words rang out like a bell in my HelixBrain. We do this for the patients....who just want to get better.
I was surprised to hear that Mickey Flynn, fearless leader of Pennsylvania Bio, and Debbie Hart, BioNJ's fearless leader, recognized Beakeris, and my presence in their closing remarks...these are fantastically large strides for my people and my planet...I am forever grateful to both of these innovation protectors for their recognition. But...I was even more surprised when my picture appeared on the incredibly large video transmission screens! Apparently my travels and research logs have been read across the bioscience world!
Day one of Biotech 2009 was better than I could have ever imagined. This is the beginning of a great adventure.
I will submit another transmission in a few short hours...Day two of Biotech 2009 awaits!
Until next time.
Helixman
November 13, 2009
This Really is a Great Valley...Part II
It’s so close and it is my duty, as an explorer of Beakeris, to research as many things bioscience as helixly possible. So I did just that…I crossed the #29 transportation route…as I approached the glass door, bearing the Pennsylvania Bio badge, my Bio Strength Locator overloaded its capacitors…and blew up…good thing I carry an emergency BSL in my Helixpod. I entered the Pennsylvania Bio office and was greeted by movement everywhere…the staff was obviously preparing for Biotech 2009…since they are the joint hosts, along with their New Jersey counterpart BioNJ. Pennsylvania Bio is the statewide trade association that represents the bioscience industry in Pennsylvania. These are the people who basically do my job…but here on Earth. They protect innovation…they fight for these companies…they’re the bioscience superheroes in Pennsylvania! I had to talk to one of them…so I figured I would go to their fearless leader…President of Pennsylvania Bio…Mickey Flynn.
He informed me about everything going on in the bioscience industry in Pennsylvania. About the small emerging start ups and the venture capital firms that fund them, to the large global pharmaceutical companies that market their innovations to all of planet Earth, to the incredible research programs that are taking place at the universities, and last but not least, we spoke about Biotech 2009...my El Dorado…after a brief conversation I realized why he holds the position of leadership he does…he truly and utterly believes in what the industry does…and that’s providing relief for patients in need. If there is someone who is as dedicated to protecting innovation as I am…it’s him.
As I departed from their offices I said my goodbyes to Karla, Amber, and Greg of the communications team, and the programs duo of Kelly and Marie, Chris and Karen of the membership department, and of course Betty, the one that manages the financial transactions…however I knew…that in a short 4 days…I would be seeing them all again at Biotech 2009.
I was off to my Helixpod as I waved goodbye to the last location before my final stop at Biotech 2009. I can say now, after everything I’ve researched, that this really is a Great Valley.
I shall soar the skies, collect my thoughts, and organize my notes in order to prepare for my final transmission to the Grand Centrifugium Assembly. I’m off to where my journey began…but this time…for Biotech 2009.
Until my next transmission-
Helixman
He informed me about everything going on in the bioscience industry in Pennsylvania. About the small emerging start ups and the venture capital firms that fund them, to the large global pharmaceutical companies that market their innovations to all of planet Earth, to the incredible research programs that are taking place at the universities, and last but not least, we spoke about Biotech 2009...my El Dorado…after a brief conversation I realized why he holds the position of leadership he does…he truly and utterly believes in what the industry does…and that’s providing relief for patients in need. If there is someone who is as dedicated to protecting innovation as I am…it’s him.
As I departed from their offices I said my goodbyes to Karla, Amber, and Greg of the communications team, and the programs duo of Kelly and Marie, Chris and Karen of the membership department, and of course Betty, the one that manages the financial transactions…however I knew…that in a short 4 days…I would be seeing them all again at Biotech 2009.
I was off to my Helixpod as I waved goodbye to the last location before my final stop at Biotech 2009. I can say now, after everything I’ve researched, that this really is a Great Valley.
I shall soar the skies, collect my thoughts, and organize my notes in order to prepare for my final transmission to the Grand Centrifugium Assembly. I’m off to where my journey began…but this time…for Biotech 2009.
Until my next transmission-
Helixman
November 12, 2009
This Really is a Great Valley...Part I
I can say, with full confidence, that I am glad I saved this stop for last…well technically second to last (even though I am considering Biotech 2009 an exploration in and of itself). The Grand Centrifugium Assembly is more than pleased with everything I’ve researched so far, however once they receive my transmission on Great Valley, they will surely promote me to 1st DNA Bioscience Explorer Extraordinaire, the highest honor I can receive on Beakeris.
My exploration of Great Valley began at a company called Cephalon. I now can understand why it’s considered a true Pennsylvania bioscience success story. My report includes information on how Cephalon was founded in 1987 as a biotech start-up and has grown into one of the world’s top ten biopharmaceutical companies. In just over 20 years they have gone from having three employees and no revenue, to more than 3,000 employees and just over $1.94 billion in revenue. Their product pipeline amazed even my Helix Brain…It includes eight proprietary products in the U.S. and more than 30 products internationally for central nervous system disorders, pain, and cancer. Cephalon’s Chairman and CEO, Dr. Frank Baldino, Jr., is definitely a leader in the bioscience industry.
As I made my way up the #29 transportation route I wondered to myself…”Where is the sign that says ‘Welcome to Innovation Country?’” The diversity of companies in this region of the state is incredible. From global pharmaceutical, to small biotech startups, to midsize emerging bioscience companies…it’s a cornucopia of bioscience delights! I navigated my Helixpod into the Great Valley Corporate Center…the place where companies like Fujirebio Diagnostics, sanofi-aventis, Orthovita, and Puresyn call home. I made my way around the complex, slowly first, but then speeding up as my anticipation of exploring these companies grew and grew. I could only imagine, but I think I felt like a child does on their birthday…with the excitement of opening up their gifts, accompanied by the feeling of uncertainty as to what’s inside.
My first stop in the Great Valley Corporate Center was Fujirebio Diagnostics, a world leader in the production of in vitro diagnostics and biomarkers that are being distributed worldwide by leading healthcare organizations. I couldn’t believe what this company had to offer….truly innovative! Then it was off to Orthovita, an orthobiologics and biosurgery company that develops and markets novel medical devices. Their orthobiologics platform offers products for the fusion, regeneration, and fixation of human bone….amazing…just amazing! After I left Orthovita, I stepped into the ring with two SUMOs…that is the prokaryotic and eukaryotic protein expression platforms, SUMOstar and SUMOpro, that LifeSensors manufactures. LifeSensors is a biotechnology company that discovers and develops enabling technologies for therapeutic, drug discovery and research markets. I just can’t get over this…every direction I turn…bioscience...is this all a mirage? Should I pinch myself and see if I wake up…actually…on second thought…if this is all a dream…why would I want to wake up?
I navigated my way out of the Great Valley Corporate Center, but not without first visiting Puresyn, a separations and purification contract manufacturing company that develops, manufactures, and markets state-of-the-art products and services for the separation and purification of nucleic acids and other biological molecules. They use a proprietary polymer technology, PolyFlo, which is an inert and irregularly shaped, non-porous polymer resin…exactly what I was talking about earlier…innovation and technology everywhere around me!
I was ready to start the thrusters on my Helixpod when an alert crossed my screen…Last Chance to Register for Biotech 2009…it was another email alert…trying to get to the bottom of the mystery of why I was receiving these I traced it back to its data source…my computer ran a data information track and immediately populated the results…CLOSEST PROBABLE DATA SOURCE = Pennsylvania Bio…DISTANCE FROM CURRENT POSITION = .08 miles…
To be continued
My exploration of Great Valley began at a company called Cephalon. I now can understand why it’s considered a true Pennsylvania bioscience success story. My report includes information on how Cephalon was founded in 1987 as a biotech start-up and has grown into one of the world’s top ten biopharmaceutical companies. In just over 20 years they have gone from having three employees and no revenue, to more than 3,000 employees and just over $1.94 billion in revenue. Their product pipeline amazed even my Helix Brain…It includes eight proprietary products in the U.S. and more than 30 products internationally for central nervous system disorders, pain, and cancer. Cephalon’s Chairman and CEO, Dr. Frank Baldino, Jr., is definitely a leader in the bioscience industry.
As I made my way up the #29 transportation route I wondered to myself…”Where is the sign that says ‘Welcome to Innovation Country?’” The diversity of companies in this region of the state is incredible. From global pharmaceutical, to small biotech startups, to midsize emerging bioscience companies…it’s a cornucopia of bioscience delights! I navigated my Helixpod into the Great Valley Corporate Center…the place where companies like Fujirebio Diagnostics, sanofi-aventis, Orthovita, and Puresyn call home. I made my way around the complex, slowly first, but then speeding up as my anticipation of exploring these companies grew and grew. I could only imagine, but I think I felt like a child does on their birthday…with the excitement of opening up their gifts, accompanied by the feeling of uncertainty as to what’s inside.
My first stop in the Great Valley Corporate Center was Fujirebio Diagnostics, a world leader in the production of in vitro diagnostics and biomarkers that are being distributed worldwide by leading healthcare organizations. I couldn’t believe what this company had to offer….truly innovative! Then it was off to Orthovita, an orthobiologics and biosurgery company that develops and markets novel medical devices. Their orthobiologics platform offers products for the fusion, regeneration, and fixation of human bone….amazing…just amazing! After I left Orthovita, I stepped into the ring with two SUMOs…that is the prokaryotic and eukaryotic protein expression platforms, SUMOstar and SUMOpro, that LifeSensors manufactures. LifeSensors is a biotechnology company that discovers and develops enabling technologies for therapeutic, drug discovery and research markets. I just can’t get over this…every direction I turn…bioscience...is this all a mirage? Should I pinch myself and see if I wake up…actually…on second thought…if this is all a dream…why would I want to wake up?
I navigated my way out of the Great Valley Corporate Center, but not without first visiting Puresyn, a separations and purification contract manufacturing company that develops, manufactures, and markets state-of-the-art products and services for the separation and purification of nucleic acids and other biological molecules. They use a proprietary polymer technology, PolyFlo, which is an inert and irregularly shaped, non-porous polymer resin…exactly what I was talking about earlier…innovation and technology everywhere around me!
I was ready to start the thrusters on my Helixpod when an alert crossed my screen…Last Chance to Register for Biotech 2009…it was another email alert…trying to get to the bottom of the mystery of why I was receiving these I traced it back to its data source…my computer ran a data information track and immediately populated the results…CLOSEST PROBABLE DATA SOURCE = Pennsylvania Bio…DISTANCE FROM CURRENT POSITION = .08 miles…
To be continued
November 10, 2009
The Lehigh Valley
Good afternoon. I truly hope that this transmission finds you all well. I have made my way back to Pennsylvania, to an area called “Lehigh Valley." Apparently, this area is an emerging bioscience cluster, and the amazing things that the companies and universities are doing really prove that. My first stop was Azevan Pharmaceuticals, which is a venture-backed company, run by experienced chemists and neurobiologists, developing novel therapeutics for the treatment of disorders of stress, mood, and behavior. Azevan’s first series of clinical candidates selectively block the effects of arginine vasopressin (AVP), which is involved in the pathophysiology of various conditions including anxiety, depression, and menstrual-related disorders. Personally, one of my favorite ways of raising my overall positive disposition levels is by telling a joke, so that’s exactly what I did… I am the, self proclaimed, official comedian of Beakeris after all. So I prepared my favorite joke for the good people at Azevan…a neutron walks into a bar, orders a drink, and then another…he asks the bartender how much he owes…to which the bartender replied…for you…no charge. Get it? Neutron? No charge? It gets me every time.
I left Azevan and plotted my course to Lehigh University. When I arrived I spoke with a student, who is acquiring a minor in biotechnology, who told me that if I wanted to find out more about Lehigh University and the biosciences I should check out their Bioscience in the 21st Century Virtual Classroom. This website is a publically accessible, introductory survey course with the goal in mind of communicating the importance of a systems-driven, multidisciplinary approach in bioscience. There are video lectures presented by faculty from different disciplines in order to highlight cross-disciplinary perspectives on fundamental problems and potential solutions in bioscience. Topics include infectious diseases, cancer, genome-based medicine, engineered, biomedical systems, stem cells, bioinformatics, and more! And tomorrow, Dr. Stefan Maas will discuss genome organization…one of my favorite subjects. Wow! I cannot believe that this is a program that is openly available to everyone…the bioscience industry really must be a very important aspect of the Lehigh Valley community.
My final stop was at InfraRed Imaging Systems, Inc. (IRIS). IRIS is a medical device designer and manufacturer that offers products that improve vascular access accuracy and patient care. A visit to the doctor’s office, a clinic or a hospital may necessitate the insertion of a needle or catheter into a patient’s vein or artery. The inadequacies of current vascular access practices significantly compromise patient care and contribute to rising healthcare costs. But with the IRIS Vascular Viewer, doctors and nurses will be able to view direct, real-time visualization of vascular structures. It’s amazing that their products allow nurses and doctors to see veins and arteries, as well as related vascular events such as rolled veins, bifurcations, vasospasm and extravasation. This is truly cutting-edge technology!
The Lehigh Valley has not disappointed me...I have learned and discovered so much that I needed to change the memory unit in my Bio Exploration Recorder…and it is capable of holding 1.3 billion B.S.Us.
Biotech 2009 is only 6 days away. I’ve logged onto the Biotech 2009 partnering site and have already scheduled meetings and discussions with other like-minded individuals. I don’t know what I’m more excited about…the keynote discussions with David Holveck and Fred Hassan…or the company presentations…or maybe it’s the Hot Topics in Science Track…or no it’s the Exhibit Hall…I don’t know, I must focus my HelixBrain...I know! I'm excited for it all!
I’m setting my navigation system towards the Great Valley, which will be my last stop before I finally end my journey where it all began…Philadelphia.
I truly hope that you’re as excited for these two days as I am!
Until then.
Helixman
I left Azevan and plotted my course to Lehigh University. When I arrived I spoke with a student, who is acquiring a minor in biotechnology, who told me that if I wanted to find out more about Lehigh University and the biosciences I should check out their Bioscience in the 21st Century Virtual Classroom. This website is a publically accessible, introductory survey course with the goal in mind of communicating the importance of a systems-driven, multidisciplinary approach in bioscience. There are video lectures presented by faculty from different disciplines in order to highlight cross-disciplinary perspectives on fundamental problems and potential solutions in bioscience. Topics include infectious diseases, cancer, genome-based medicine, engineered, biomedical systems, stem cells, bioinformatics, and more! And tomorrow, Dr. Stefan Maas will discuss genome organization…one of my favorite subjects. Wow! I cannot believe that this is a program that is openly available to everyone…the bioscience industry really must be a very important aspect of the Lehigh Valley community.
My final stop was at InfraRed Imaging Systems, Inc. (IRIS). IRIS is a medical device designer and manufacturer that offers products that improve vascular access accuracy and patient care. A visit to the doctor’s office, a clinic or a hospital may necessitate the insertion of a needle or catheter into a patient’s vein or artery. The inadequacies of current vascular access practices significantly compromise patient care and contribute to rising healthcare costs. But with the IRIS Vascular Viewer, doctors and nurses will be able to view direct, real-time visualization of vascular structures. It’s amazing that their products allow nurses and doctors to see veins and arteries, as well as related vascular events such as rolled veins, bifurcations, vasospasm and extravasation. This is truly cutting-edge technology!
The Lehigh Valley has not disappointed me...I have learned and discovered so much that I needed to change the memory unit in my Bio Exploration Recorder…and it is capable of holding 1.3 billion B.S.Us.
Biotech 2009 is only 6 days away. I’ve logged onto the Biotech 2009 partnering site and have already scheduled meetings and discussions with other like-minded individuals. I don’t know what I’m more excited about…the keynote discussions with David Holveck and Fred Hassan…or the company presentations…or maybe it’s the Hot Topics in Science Track…or no it’s the Exhibit Hall…I don’t know, I must focus my HelixBrain...I know! I'm excited for it all!
I’m setting my navigation system towards the Great Valley, which will be my last stop before I finally end my journey where it all began…Philadelphia.
I truly hope that you’re as excited for these two days as I am!
Until then.
Helixman
November 9, 2009
Seven Days and Counting
I cannot believe that Biotech 2009 is exactly one week from today. To think, in just seven days I will be standing at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, in the famous city of Philadelphia, marveling at all of the bright individuals and cutting edge companies who make this great industry thrive. With my stay on Earth coming closer, and closer, to an end, I have started to understand the sheer strength and importance of the regional bioscience industry, and why the bioscience people here in this region feel the need to hold an event in its honor.
However, my stay is not yet over! I still have 168 exploratory hours to research and explore what I haven’t yet seen…my first stop…The Lehigh Valley…then...The Great Valley…and then my dreams become a reality…Biotech 2009.
Helixman
However, my stay is not yet over! I still have 168 exploratory hours to research and explore what I haven’t yet seen…my first stop…The Lehigh Valley…then...The Great Valley…and then my dreams become a reality…Biotech 2009.
Helixman
November 6, 2009
The Trinity of Innovation...(11 days and counting)
During my regional journey I have thoroughly explored Pennsylvania and New Jersey…two integral pieces of the mid-Atlantic bioscience cluster…however there was one piece missing…one piece of the region I had yet to explore…the first state…and my second to last stop before Biotech 2009…Delaware. Upon the completion of my Delaware exploration I will have researched all three states that make up the mid-Atlantic bioscience region, or as I’ve come to refer to it, the trinity of innovation.
I must say, I knew little about Delaware before I started my journey. I had heard, from some of the inhabitants of both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, that it was known as the First State, and that it has been very active in producing some of the region’s top bioscience companies. I was excited to explore this state, as I knew that there was much to discover.
I started my journey directly across the Delaware-Pennsylvania state line at AstraZeneca…I knew this was a hive of bioscience activity due to the incredible readings from my Bio Strength Locator. It seems that wherever I go in these three states there is something new to discover, and something new that nearly overloads my Helixbrain. The AZ facilities were huge…and steaming with new ideas and innovations that will improve the quality of life for all inhabitants of this great planet Earth. It's amazing to me that everyone at all of the facilities I've visited seem so proud of what they do...I think it's because they know that they are the reason people are living longer, healthier, and happier lives.
After I left AstraZeneca, my mind still reeling from all of the bioscience excitement, I turned my sights to The University of Delaware…but more specifically, the school of chemistry and biochemistry, where scientists and researchers are developing new ideas and uses for products everyday. For example, they are looking for biomarker compounds related to the production of a biopharmaceutical, with a goal in mind of a better understanding of the way in which this growth media is involved in the expression of the compounds of interest. The compounds being generated are known to be effective in the treatment of a form of cancer, yet they are difficult to produce in the bioprocesses currently used. They expect to classify materials as to their acceptability for use in the process. The Brown Group works with researchers at Biogen to examine the near-infrared and 1H NMR spectra of raw materials used in growth media for a biofermentation to determine what components are important in the production of the desired product and what compounds are inhibitors. The research should make production of these compounds more efficient and cheaper. It also may aid in production of other biopharmaceuticals that rely on similar raw materials. I must say, the researchers at this institution are working on some extremely cutting-edge projects. One of the researchers I spoke with told me, if I was really interested in innovation (come on...of course I am), I should see the Delaware Technology Park, which was only a few blocks from the University of Delaware. I thanked the researcher and I was off…
I landed my Helixpod on a 40-acre site which sat adjacent to the University of Delaware…what a convenient location! The Tech Park offers accommodations for everything from start-ups to established businesses with needs that range from wet labs to traditional office space. I deduced some obvious benefits of this technology park, which are an advanced IT infrastructure, close proximity to like-minded companies and a culture that encourages networking, collaboration and mutual support, and last, but certainly, most definitely not least, there are more than 30 colleges and universities within a 35-mile radius of the park that support a broad pool of sophisticated and well-trained employees. This technology park is a great location for a start-up company to develop and grow. My BSL is reading off the charts…obviously because of the high levels of innovation.
When I was busy exploring the Technology Park, and its incredible facilities, I somehow intercepted an email transmission…something regarding complimentary one-on-one partnering meetings at Biotech 2009 through an online partnering system. I should really check this out…this will be a great way for me to meet, discuss, and share ideas with other like-minded individuals at the Symposium. I must get on this immediately. To the Helixpod!
I only have 11 days until Biotech 2009…the culmination of my exploration here on planet Earth.
Until next time.
Helixman
I must say, I knew little about Delaware before I started my journey. I had heard, from some of the inhabitants of both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, that it was known as the First State, and that it has been very active in producing some of the region’s top bioscience companies. I was excited to explore this state, as I knew that there was much to discover.
I started my journey directly across the Delaware-Pennsylvania state line at AstraZeneca…I knew this was a hive of bioscience activity due to the incredible readings from my Bio Strength Locator. It seems that wherever I go in these three states there is something new to discover, and something new that nearly overloads my Helixbrain. The AZ facilities were huge…and steaming with new ideas and innovations that will improve the quality of life for all inhabitants of this great planet Earth. It's amazing to me that everyone at all of the facilities I've visited seem so proud of what they do...I think it's because they know that they are the reason people are living longer, healthier, and happier lives.
After I left AstraZeneca, my mind still reeling from all of the bioscience excitement, I turned my sights to The University of Delaware…but more specifically, the school of chemistry and biochemistry, where scientists and researchers are developing new ideas and uses for products everyday. For example, they are looking for biomarker compounds related to the production of a biopharmaceutical, with a goal in mind of a better understanding of the way in which this growth media is involved in the expression of the compounds of interest. The compounds being generated are known to be effective in the treatment of a form of cancer, yet they are difficult to produce in the bioprocesses currently used. They expect to classify materials as to their acceptability for use in the process. The Brown Group works with researchers at Biogen to examine the near-infrared and 1H NMR spectra of raw materials used in growth media for a biofermentation to determine what components are important in the production of the desired product and what compounds are inhibitors. The research should make production of these compounds more efficient and cheaper. It also may aid in production of other biopharmaceuticals that rely on similar raw materials. I must say, the researchers at this institution are working on some extremely cutting-edge projects. One of the researchers I spoke with told me, if I was really interested in innovation (come on...of course I am), I should see the Delaware Technology Park, which was only a few blocks from the University of Delaware. I thanked the researcher and I was off…
I landed my Helixpod on a 40-acre site which sat adjacent to the University of Delaware…what a convenient location! The Tech Park offers accommodations for everything from start-ups to established businesses with needs that range from wet labs to traditional office space. I deduced some obvious benefits of this technology park, which are an advanced IT infrastructure, close proximity to like-minded companies and a culture that encourages networking, collaboration and mutual support, and last, but certainly, most definitely not least, there are more than 30 colleges and universities within a 35-mile radius of the park that support a broad pool of sophisticated and well-trained employees. This technology park is a great location for a start-up company to develop and grow. My BSL is reading off the charts…obviously because of the high levels of innovation.
When I was busy exploring the Technology Park, and its incredible facilities, I somehow intercepted an email transmission…something regarding complimentary one-on-one partnering meetings at Biotech 2009 through an online partnering system. I should really check this out…this will be a great way for me to meet, discuss, and share ideas with other like-minded individuals at the Symposium. I must get on this immediately. To the Helixpod!
I only have 11 days until Biotech 2009…the culmination of my exploration here on planet Earth.
Until next time.
Helixman
October 30, 2009
Labs-on-chips, nanotubes, and other really...really...small things
…I do apologize for the delay but I had some troubles with my Helixpod as I made my journey west, back to Pennsylvania. As you may, or may not know, my Helixpod runs off of DNA mediated energy transfer, which powers nanoelectronic thrusters in the pods core. When my pod powered down, somewhere along the New Jersey Turnpike, I had to figure out a way to make my pod fly again…then it hit me…when I was plotting my course to central Pennsylvania, I realized that there is nano @ Penn State research facilities…which is geared to nanotechnology and more specifically nanobiotechnology, at Penn State University…and if my Helixbrain serves me correctly, during my research I stumbled across the fact that they are able to manipulate matter at the atomic and molecular levels…this size scale, which is about the same as that of biological structures, would enable them to work, and potentially FIX MY HELIXPOD THRUSTERS!! I must get to this institute…immediately….but how? I sent a request to the Grand Centrifugium Assembly to grant me emergency approval for DNA reorganization transportation…which would enable me to travel anywhere I choose…but just one time. If I used this method of transport any more than once my atoms could potentially be scrambled forever and I would never be able to reconstitute myself back to my current, and might I add handsome, state. My permission was granted and I was off…to central Pennsylvania…the location where I would discover much more than just researchers who work on nanoelectric thrusters…
When I was reconstituted, I tasted a sweet nectar I have never tasted before…where am I…surrounded by mint green and little black dots…I couldn’t have been so far off in my reorganization transportation calculation that I ended up in the galaxy of Emeraldion, which has a green sky and black stars…no no no…this must be the famous Berkey Creamery at Penn State…and I am in…a tub of their delicious mint chocolate chip ice cream…
After I cleaned myself off I headed off to find nano @ Penn State research facilities, but was interrupted by my Bio Strength Locator, which was pointing me towards the Huck Institute of the Life Sciences…what is this place?...I asked a scientist who was entering one of the labs and he told me that the Huck Institute is dedicated to strengthening research in the life sciences, preparing students for successful careers, and encouraging new perspectives across disciplinary boundaries…it’s unbelievable to me that once I think I reach a point where it would be merely impossible to impress me anymore, something else does…I quickly got back on track but received a transmission from the Grand Centrifugium Assembly saying they have received coordinates for a location called Strategic Polymer Sciences, and that I should research this place immediately. I have included my transmission below for your review.
Research Transmission to GCA- log 432AZA – Strategic Polymer Sciences, Inc. I have discovered the coordinates you, the Grand Centerfugium Assembly, had sent me. The following is my investigative report. Strategic Polymer Sciences (SPS) is dedicated to enabling technologies to improve the quality of living. SPS develops new materials and device technologies that are in the process of revolutionizing energy storage, energy generation, and medical therapeutics. The medical therapeutics include implantable cardiac defibrillators and the creation of lower cost, more efficient, and more effective steerable medical catheters for cardiac and other applications. Their areas of specialty range from medical devices, energy harvesting, automotive, communications, and electronics…this assembly is truly remarkable…I feel that Beakeris has much to learn...
Research Transmission to GCA- log432AZA – Strategic Polymer Sciences, Inc. END
I decided then to resume my original mission, discovering nanobiotechnology labs at Penn State University, where hopefully, I would find someone who would be willing enough to fix my Helixpod…I then discovered that the Huck Institute and the Materials Research Institute work together to provide seed funding for collaborative research in areas such as biological and chemical sensing, drug delivery via nanoparticles, high frequency ultrasound sensing at the cellular level, lab-on-a-chip technologies, and the development of nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, silicon nanowires, and zinc oxide nanorods for advanced genomics, proteomics and drug discovery…all I knew was that they specialized in all things small…and that’s what just what my thrusters needed…so I traveled to the Materials Research Institute...there they informed me that the application of nano techniques and tools to human health has the potential for enormous returns in the near to mid term, with new methods for delivering targeted anticancer drugs or new medical techniques for the battlefield…all of this information absolutely astounded me! I could not get over the fact that they could develop something so small that had such a gargantuan impact on the quality of human life! The researchers here told me that they work very closely with clinicians at The Penn State Milton S. Hershey College of Medicine and that their collaboration would produce some incredible outcomes within the next decade…amazing…just amazing…
I contracted the help of a scientist who thought he could help get me back to the skies…after a long journey, a few famous Penn State Diner Grilled Stickeys, a few cups of coffee, and an explanation of what a Nittany Lion is, we were back on the Jersey Turnpike, and my new found friend was busy fixing my nanoelectric thrusters, which he repaired in what seemed like a few nanoseconds…I was glad I could safely resume my journey within the safety of my Helixpod…and still make it to Biotech 2009 on time…only 17 days left…I can’t help but wonder if some of my new friends at Penn State will be presenting during the Innovation Corridor at the Symposium…I truly hope they show off their new, cutting edge, and groundbreaking technologies to the region…then the world…and then…BEAKERIS!
Until we meet again.
Helixman
When I was reconstituted, I tasted a sweet nectar I have never tasted before…where am I…surrounded by mint green and little black dots…I couldn’t have been so far off in my reorganization transportation calculation that I ended up in the galaxy of Emeraldion, which has a green sky and black stars…no no no…this must be the famous Berkey Creamery at Penn State…and I am in…a tub of their delicious mint chocolate chip ice cream…
After I cleaned myself off I headed off to find nano @ Penn State research facilities, but was interrupted by my Bio Strength Locator, which was pointing me towards the Huck Institute of the Life Sciences…what is this place?...I asked a scientist who was entering one of the labs and he told me that the Huck Institute is dedicated to strengthening research in the life sciences, preparing students for successful careers, and encouraging new perspectives across disciplinary boundaries…it’s unbelievable to me that once I think I reach a point where it would be merely impossible to impress me anymore, something else does…I quickly got back on track but received a transmission from the Grand Centrifugium Assembly saying they have received coordinates for a location called Strategic Polymer Sciences, and that I should research this place immediately. I have included my transmission below for your review.
Research Transmission to GCA- log 432AZA – Strategic Polymer Sciences, Inc. I have discovered the coordinates you, the Grand Centerfugium Assembly, had sent me. The following is my investigative report. Strategic Polymer Sciences (SPS) is dedicated to enabling technologies to improve the quality of living. SPS develops new materials and device technologies that are in the process of revolutionizing energy storage, energy generation, and medical therapeutics. The medical therapeutics include implantable cardiac defibrillators and the creation of lower cost, more efficient, and more effective steerable medical catheters for cardiac and other applications. Their areas of specialty range from medical devices, energy harvesting, automotive, communications, and electronics…this assembly is truly remarkable…I feel that Beakeris has much to learn...
Research Transmission to GCA- log432AZA – Strategic Polymer Sciences, Inc. END
I decided then to resume my original mission, discovering nanobiotechnology labs at Penn State University, where hopefully, I would find someone who would be willing enough to fix my Helixpod…I then discovered that the Huck Institute and the Materials Research Institute work together to provide seed funding for collaborative research in areas such as biological and chemical sensing, drug delivery via nanoparticles, high frequency ultrasound sensing at the cellular level, lab-on-a-chip technologies, and the development of nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, silicon nanowires, and zinc oxide nanorods for advanced genomics, proteomics and drug discovery…all I knew was that they specialized in all things small…and that’s what just what my thrusters needed…so I traveled to the Materials Research Institute...there they informed me that the application of nano techniques and tools to human health has the potential for enormous returns in the near to mid term, with new methods for delivering targeted anticancer drugs or new medical techniques for the battlefield…all of this information absolutely astounded me! I could not get over the fact that they could develop something so small that had such a gargantuan impact on the quality of human life! The researchers here told me that they work very closely with clinicians at The Penn State Milton S. Hershey College of Medicine and that their collaboration would produce some incredible outcomes within the next decade…amazing…just amazing…
I contracted the help of a scientist who thought he could help get me back to the skies…after a long journey, a few famous Penn State Diner Grilled Stickeys, a few cups of coffee, and an explanation of what a Nittany Lion is, we were back on the Jersey Turnpike, and my new found friend was busy fixing my nanoelectric thrusters, which he repaired in what seemed like a few nanoseconds…I was glad I could safely resume my journey within the safety of my Helixpod…and still make it to Biotech 2009 on time…only 17 days left…I can’t help but wonder if some of my new friends at Penn State will be presenting during the Innovation Corridor at the Symposium…I truly hope they show off their new, cutting edge, and groundbreaking technologies to the region…then the world…and then…BEAKERIS!
Until we meet again.
Helixman
October 20, 2009
The Road Ahead
I headed north again to New Jersey and along the way I was thinking about the impact of the medical technologies I learned about in Washington D.C. As I flew, my mind began to race at the thought of other areas of biotechnology that would shape the future of medicine.
One area I have heard a LOT about is stem cell research. I remember lots of debate and questions about what they were and what they could do from places like California and Wisconsin. I wondered to myself, are there any companies working in stem cell science in New Jersey?
There was only one way to find out. I re-routed my BioStrength Locator to search for stem cell science and I was hit with an intense alarm and flashing as it indicated that I was definitely in the right place.
I landed and called up the readout which showed a company called Progenitor Cell Therapy, LLC. This company is based in Hackensack and provides critical services that companies involved in cellular therapeutic development need to produce and deliver their cutting-edge medicines. This includes cGMP-compliant cell manufacturing and consulting across regulatory, financial, technical, process and quality groups. They also specialize in support for process and product development, validation and tissue collection, processing and storage.
Next on my list was Stem Cell Innovations, with offices in Scotch Plains. This cell biology company has a proprietary stem cell platform called PluriCells™, which can differentiate into a broad range of human cell types. This platform has the potential to make a major impact on the dynamics of drug discovery and to affect a broad range of critical diseases.
Finally, I pulled up the file for Celgene Cellular Therapeutics. I had heard of Celgene Corporation, but Celgene Cellular Therapeutics, or CCT, was new to me. CCT, it turns out, is a subsidiary of Celgene that is focused on developing therapies from stem cells derived from the human placenta – a safe and almost unlimited source. CCT’s multipotent stem cells are highly versatile, with the potential to repair and regenerate a broad range of damaged or diseased tissues. These therapies hold tremendous promise as they are scalable to a traditional pharmaceutical level and PDA001, the first of these stem cells, is already in human clinical studies to treat Crohn’s disease. Last, the science at CCT is truly groundbreaking. I learned that in the August edition of Nature Biotechnology, an article on the landscape of stem cell patents was published and CCT holds two of the “top 20” patents highlighted.
Then it hit me like a ton of test tubes! There has to be information regarding my findings during the Hot Topics in Science track at Biotech 2009…in fact, there is! The second session on Tuesday, November 17th…Regenerative Medicine for Brain Injury: From the Battlefield to the Clinic! I can’t believe it…this is fantastic…and as each day passes, I become exponentially more and more excited for this symposium…this grand event…my Mecca for all things regionally bioscience! Only 28 more days…and to think…I still need to register!
As I resumed my journey, I felt a surge of hope and pride after learning that New Jersey is truly on the cutting edge of medical science.
Until next time...
Helixman
One area I have heard a LOT about is stem cell research. I remember lots of debate and questions about what they were and what they could do from places like California and Wisconsin. I wondered to myself, are there any companies working in stem cell science in New Jersey?
There was only one way to find out. I re-routed my BioStrength Locator to search for stem cell science and I was hit with an intense alarm and flashing as it indicated that I was definitely in the right place.
I landed and called up the readout which showed a company called Progenitor Cell Therapy, LLC. This company is based in Hackensack and provides critical services that companies involved in cellular therapeutic development need to produce and deliver their cutting-edge medicines. This includes cGMP-compliant cell manufacturing and consulting across regulatory, financial, technical, process and quality groups. They also specialize in support for process and product development, validation and tissue collection, processing and storage.
Next on my list was Stem Cell Innovations, with offices in Scotch Plains. This cell biology company has a proprietary stem cell platform called PluriCells™, which can differentiate into a broad range of human cell types. This platform has the potential to make a major impact on the dynamics of drug discovery and to affect a broad range of critical diseases.
Finally, I pulled up the file for Celgene Cellular Therapeutics. I had heard of Celgene Corporation, but Celgene Cellular Therapeutics, or CCT, was new to me. CCT, it turns out, is a subsidiary of Celgene that is focused on developing therapies from stem cells derived from the human placenta – a safe and almost unlimited source. CCT’s multipotent stem cells are highly versatile, with the potential to repair and regenerate a broad range of damaged or diseased tissues. These therapies hold tremendous promise as they are scalable to a traditional pharmaceutical level and PDA001, the first of these stem cells, is already in human clinical studies to treat Crohn’s disease. Last, the science at CCT is truly groundbreaking. I learned that in the August edition of Nature Biotechnology, an article on the landscape of stem cell patents was published and CCT holds two of the “top 20” patents highlighted.
Then it hit me like a ton of test tubes! There has to be information regarding my findings during the Hot Topics in Science track at Biotech 2009…in fact, there is! The second session on Tuesday, November 17th…Regenerative Medicine for Brain Injury: From the Battlefield to the Clinic! I can’t believe it…this is fantastic…and as each day passes, I become exponentially more and more excited for this symposium…this grand event…my Mecca for all things regionally bioscience! Only 28 more days…and to think…I still need to register!
As I resumed my journey, I felt a surge of hope and pride after learning that New Jersey is truly on the cutting edge of medical science.
Until next time...
Helixman
October 14, 2009
Adventures at AdvaMed 2009
I have made my way to Washington D.C., more specifically the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, for AdvaMed 2009. During my short stay here I have seen and been in contact with many medical technology CEOs and executives, not to mention policy-makers, media, financiers, and many other industry leaders from around the world. I, however, am the only intergalactic guest attending this event…for this year at least. I’m sure, that after I bring back to Beakeris all of this information I have collected, all of the medical technology conference’s intergalactic registration rates will increase exponentially!
I have listened in on a couple plenary sessions, which featured speakers such as former President Bill Clinton. There are roughly 40 companies from the Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania region participating here, including Meta Biomed Inc., NeuroInterventional Therapeutics, Kaplan EduNeering, and Southern Lights Biomaterials, not to mention a handful of the renowned speakers…which is incredible for the tri-state region! It truly shows the size and strength of the medical device sector and the level of innovation harbored there. As I have been making my way through the exhibit hall, marveling at all of the incredible companies and their various medical technologies, I have been dreaming about Biotech 2009, and how it will also feature an entire session track on Drug Delivery, Device, and Diagnostics.
…aaah to think…in just 34 days I will be sitting at the Pennsylvania Convention Center…listening to the exciting and enlightening session on new trends in drug delivery of biotechnology-derived therapeutics on Monday at 10:30 a.m….or maybe the forward thinking and incredibly innovative advancements for the diagnostics and treatment of neurological disorders session with panelists Paul Gilbert, CEO of MedAvante, Inc., John Mordock, president and CEO of Neurologix, Inc., J. Howison Schroeder, president and CEO, Neuro Kinetics, Inc., and Dan Skovronsky, CEO of Avid Radiopharmaceuticals, Inc…and maybe…just maybe…I may be fortunate enough to catch a word or two with David Holveck, president and CEO of Endo Pharmaceuticals - Biotech 2009 dinner keynote speaker of course…or Schering-Plough Corporation Chairman and CEO Fred Hassan, Tuesday’s luncheon keynote speaker…snap out of it Helixman…you have a mission to accomplish here…to gather as much information as you can for the Grand Centrifugium Assembly!
I will continue my adventure at AdvaMed and then retrace my route back to the tri-state region and see what else I can uncover there, but later stop at the conveniently located Hotel Helix for some rest and relaxation…it seems more than adequate for a double helix like myself.
Until next time…
Helixman
I have listened in on a couple plenary sessions, which featured speakers such as former President Bill Clinton. There are roughly 40 companies from the Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania region participating here, including Meta Biomed Inc., NeuroInterventional Therapeutics, Kaplan EduNeering, and Southern Lights Biomaterials, not to mention a handful of the renowned speakers…which is incredible for the tri-state region! It truly shows the size and strength of the medical device sector and the level of innovation harbored there. As I have been making my way through the exhibit hall, marveling at all of the incredible companies and their various medical technologies, I have been dreaming about Biotech 2009, and how it will also feature an entire session track on Drug Delivery, Device, and Diagnostics.
…aaah to think…in just 34 days I will be sitting at the Pennsylvania Convention Center…listening to the exciting and enlightening session on new trends in drug delivery of biotechnology-derived therapeutics on Monday at 10:30 a.m….or maybe the forward thinking and incredibly innovative advancements for the diagnostics and treatment of neurological disorders session with panelists Paul Gilbert, CEO of MedAvante, Inc., John Mordock, president and CEO of Neurologix, Inc., J. Howison Schroeder, president and CEO, Neuro Kinetics, Inc., and Dan Skovronsky, CEO of Avid Radiopharmaceuticals, Inc…and maybe…just maybe…I may be fortunate enough to catch a word or two with David Holveck, president and CEO of Endo Pharmaceuticals - Biotech 2009 dinner keynote speaker of course…or Schering-Plough Corporation Chairman and CEO Fred Hassan, Tuesday’s luncheon keynote speaker…snap out of it Helixman…you have a mission to accomplish here…to gather as much information as you can for the Grand Centrifugium Assembly!
I will continue my adventure at AdvaMed and then retrace my route back to the tri-state region and see what else I can uncover there, but later stop at the conveniently located Hotel Helix for some rest and relaxation…it seems more than adequate for a double helix like myself.
Until next time…
Helixman
October 12, 2009
Bio Strength Locator Unknown Alert...
Something very interesting happened just moments ago…as I was soaring through the skies in and around New Jersey, my mind still reeling from the massive amount of information I gained about the incubator system here, my Bio Strength Locator sent up an instant alert…but it wasn’t from Delaware, New Jersey, or Pennsylvania…it was from Washington D.C.
What could be happening that pinged by B.S.L. at such a high level of bio strength units, from a location that I was not tracking? Wait…the signal is coming in clearer and much stronger…A-D-V…A-M-E-D…2..0…09. What is this? Could it be? A conference solely dedicated to Medical Technology?
My locator may have picked up on the fact that there are companies from the tri-state region of Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania presenting there, like ElectroCore, LLC from New Jersey and two companies from Pennsylvania, NeuroInterventions, Inc. and Vytrace Corporation. This will be a wonderful opportunity for those companies to show off their strengths, as well as the strengths of the medical device sector in the tri-state region.
Hmm… Immediately initiating helixpod overdrive sequence…setting coordinates for the Walter E. Washington Convention Center…thrusters go…helixpod overdrive charged…systems ready to be engaged…away to AdvaMed 2009!
So long Garden State! I will return soon…
Helixman
What could be happening that pinged by B.S.L. at such a high level of bio strength units, from a location that I was not tracking? Wait…the signal is coming in clearer and much stronger…A-D-V…A-M-E-D…2..0…09. What is this? Could it be? A conference solely dedicated to Medical Technology?
My locator may have picked up on the fact that there are companies from the tri-state region of Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania presenting there, like ElectroCore, LLC from New Jersey and two companies from Pennsylvania, NeuroInterventions, Inc. and Vytrace Corporation. This will be a wonderful opportunity for those companies to show off their strengths, as well as the strengths of the medical device sector in the tri-state region.
Hmm… Immediately initiating helixpod overdrive sequence…setting coordinates for the Walter E. Washington Convention Center…thrusters go…helixpod overdrive charged…systems ready to be engaged…away to AdvaMed 2009!
So long Garden State! I will return soon…
Helixman
October 9, 2009
Holy centrifuges...I just discovered the NJ Incubators
Holy centrifuges. I was looking for the next addition to my journal while cruising above the New Jersey Turnpike in my Helixpod like a celestial Bruce Springsteen when all of a sudden my BioStrength Locator started to go off the charts.
The words bioscience incubators started flashing through my visual cortex connectors with a pulsation so strong that for a moment I thought I was flying down the midway of another exotic land in New Jersey called the boardwalk. I was blinded by the light.
What are these incubators? What do they do?
Using my scanning sensors, I quickly learned that New Jersey has a network of business incubators that literally runs from one end of the state to the other.
Showing great wisdom, this incubator network offers a nurturing environment where early-stage companies are provided critical support services including coaching, access to capital, technical and business resources and networking opportunities. The incubators offer flexible office or laboratory space in a professional business environment.
The names and locations of all the incubators are too numerous to mention, but I’ve made a note to check them all out during my travel, including the Burlington County College High Technology Small Business & Life Science Incubator in Mount Laurel and the Enterprise Development Center on the campus of NJIT in Newark.
I’ve decided to get a better look at one of these amazing places and set down at the Commercialization Center for Innovative Technologies (CCIT) in North Brunswick.
As I observed scientists running from lab to lab and colleagues having “big thoughts” in conferences room, I came to learn that the CCIT, which is operated by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, is one of the more significant incubation facilities in the nation dedicated to life sciences and biotechnology companies.
Located in the heart of the state's "Research Corridor" between Princeton and Rutgers universities, the 46,000-square-foot CCIT facility offers the most wet labs in the state for incubation. Customizable office, production, and "plug-in ready" wet and dry laboratory space is available to qualified tenants at below-market rent.
One of the best advantages of locating in CCIT is being a part of the unique corporate technology transfer initiative. This program has been established to spur collaboration and business opportunities by linking small life sciences and biotechnology startup businesses with major corporations in the state. The initiative encourages a more rapid transfer of discoveries from the laboratory to the marketplace, and fosters collaborations with public research and medical research.
You probably have already guessed that soft landings are important to a fellow like me and I was impressed to learn that in recognition of its success, the center has become one of only 10 business incubation programs in the world that have earned the Soft Landings International Incubator designation since the National Business Incubation Association began the program in 2005. The Soft Landings designation recognizes an incubator's focus on welcoming non-domestic firms into its domestic market with translation services, help cutting through governmental red tape, access to capital, domestic market research, and other programs.
“Yeah, but does that all really work,” I whispered into my data transponder and to my great amazement it chided me for not knowing that among the center’s graduates, Amicus Therapeutics in Cranbury and Chromocell of North Brunswick both announced significant expansions in the past year.
“OK,” I responded trying to defend myself, “but what does this have to do with Biotech 2009?”
My personal “Hal” shot back again, “Make sure you pay a great deal of attention to the posters being presented at the Innovation Corridor at Biotech 2009. You’re going to see some fantastic ideas from budding scientists and entrepreneurs who are located in incubators in Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.”
I will I promised myself, and as I started to resume my journey and wondered for a moment if I should be trading in my Helixpod for a sweet little pink Cadillac.
On to the next exciting adventure.
Until next time.
Helixman
The words bioscience incubators started flashing through my visual cortex connectors with a pulsation so strong that for a moment I thought I was flying down the midway of another exotic land in New Jersey called the boardwalk. I was blinded by the light.
What are these incubators? What do they do?
Using my scanning sensors, I quickly learned that New Jersey has a network of business incubators that literally runs from one end of the state to the other.
Showing great wisdom, this incubator network offers a nurturing environment where early-stage companies are provided critical support services including coaching, access to capital, technical and business resources and networking opportunities. The incubators offer flexible office or laboratory space in a professional business environment.
The names and locations of all the incubators are too numerous to mention, but I’ve made a note to check them all out during my travel, including the Burlington County College High Technology Small Business & Life Science Incubator in Mount Laurel and the Enterprise Development Center on the campus of NJIT in Newark.
I’ve decided to get a better look at one of these amazing places and set down at the Commercialization Center for Innovative Technologies (CCIT) in North Brunswick.
As I observed scientists running from lab to lab and colleagues having “big thoughts” in conferences room, I came to learn that the CCIT, which is operated by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, is one of the more significant incubation facilities in the nation dedicated to life sciences and biotechnology companies.
Located in the heart of the state's "Research Corridor" between Princeton and Rutgers universities, the 46,000-square-foot CCIT facility offers the most wet labs in the state for incubation. Customizable office, production, and "plug-in ready" wet and dry laboratory space is available to qualified tenants at below-market rent.
One of the best advantages of locating in CCIT is being a part of the unique corporate technology transfer initiative. This program has been established to spur collaboration and business opportunities by linking small life sciences and biotechnology startup businesses with major corporations in the state. The initiative encourages a more rapid transfer of discoveries from the laboratory to the marketplace, and fosters collaborations with public research and medical research.
You probably have already guessed that soft landings are important to a fellow like me and I was impressed to learn that in recognition of its success, the center has become one of only 10 business incubation programs in the world that have earned the Soft Landings International Incubator designation since the National Business Incubation Association began the program in 2005. The Soft Landings designation recognizes an incubator's focus on welcoming non-domestic firms into its domestic market with translation services, help cutting through governmental red tape, access to capital, domestic market research, and other programs.
“Yeah, but does that all really work,” I whispered into my data transponder and to my great amazement it chided me for not knowing that among the center’s graduates, Amicus Therapeutics in Cranbury and Chromocell of North Brunswick both announced significant expansions in the past year.
“OK,” I responded trying to defend myself, “but what does this have to do with Biotech 2009?”
My personal “Hal” shot back again, “Make sure you pay a great deal of attention to the posters being presented at the Innovation Corridor at Biotech 2009. You’re going to see some fantastic ideas from budding scientists and entrepreneurs who are located in incubators in Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.”
I will I promised myself, and as I started to resume my journey and wondered for a moment if I should be trading in my Helixpod for a sweet little pink Cadillac.
On to the next exciting adventure.
Until next time.
Helixman
October 7, 2009
H1N1…
I have visited the offices of CSL Biotherapies, GlaxoSmithKline, MedImmune, and sanofi pasteur…all companies who are gearing up to distribute the H1N1 vaccine. This is truly innovation at its finest. These companies are providing a way to prevent the spread of this H1N1 virus…and they are here in Pennsylvania! This is fantastic…the Grand Assembly will be overjoyed when they hear this information…but wait…I was just thinking about Biotech 2009…as I always do…and I noticed here in my handy brochure that there is a session on FDA and industry interactions in the face of a developing pandemic...which is included within the regulatory track! I wish I could go now so I can get a seat early…I’m positive this session will be extremely crowded…
Until next time.
Helixman
Until next time.
Helixman
October 5, 2009
H1N1…the worst four character series of them all…
Since my arrival here on Earth, I have heard many four character words…especially as I journeyed the Pennsylvania and New Jersey Turnpikes…some worse than others…however the worst…and certainly most contagious and dangerous combination of four characters that I have discovered in my brief stay on this otherwise wonderful planet is the following…….H1N1.
The information I have gathered thus far is that H1N1 is a new influenza virus causing illness in people and is contagious from human contact, much like the regular, seasonal flu virus. When the 2009 H1N1 outbreak was first detected in mid-April, earth year two thousand and nine, the Centers for Disease Control began working to collect, compile and analyze information regarding the H1N1 outbreak. These studies included the numbers of confirmed and probable cases, as well as the ages of the people. The conclusion of this study was that the H1N1 virus has caused greater disease burden in people younger than 25 years of age than older people. I should inform my good friends from all of the research institutions I have visited of this news…
…initiating targeted helixbrain communication…THIS IS HELIXMAN…HEED MY ADVICE IN RESPONSE TO H1N1…COVER YOUR NOSE AND MOUTH WITH A TISSUE WHEN YOU COUGH OR SNEEZE….WASH YOUR DNA STRANDS…excuse me…I MEAN HANDS WITH SOAP AND WATER…AVOID TOUCHING YOUR EYES, NOSE, OR MOUTH…TRY TO AVOID CLOSE CONTACT WITH SICK PEOPLE…closing targeted helixbrain communication…
There must be a preventive measure for this outbreak! How will it be contained this flu season? I have run a specialized tracking program to help me find companies that are working on producing H1N1 vaccines, or killed or weakened microbes administered to stimulate the human immune system to recognize the microbe more quickly, thereby preventing disease. I must transmit word of these vaccines back to the Assembly at once.
The closest organizations in proximity to my current location are CSL Biotherapies, GlaxoSmithKline, MedImmune, and sanofi pasteur…I must travel to these companies to discover more about these vaccines.
I will communicate more information once this situation unfolds…
Helixman
The information I have gathered thus far is that H1N1 is a new influenza virus causing illness in people and is contagious from human contact, much like the regular, seasonal flu virus. When the 2009 H1N1 outbreak was first detected in mid-April, earth year two thousand and nine, the Centers for Disease Control began working to collect, compile and analyze information regarding the H1N1 outbreak. These studies included the numbers of confirmed and probable cases, as well as the ages of the people. The conclusion of this study was that the H1N1 virus has caused greater disease burden in people younger than 25 years of age than older people. I should inform my good friends from all of the research institutions I have visited of this news…
…initiating targeted helixbrain communication…THIS IS HELIXMAN…HEED MY ADVICE IN RESPONSE TO H1N1…COVER YOUR NOSE AND MOUTH WITH A TISSUE WHEN YOU COUGH OR SNEEZE….WASH YOUR DNA STRANDS…excuse me…I MEAN HANDS WITH SOAP AND WATER…AVOID TOUCHING YOUR EYES, NOSE, OR MOUTH…TRY TO AVOID CLOSE CONTACT WITH SICK PEOPLE…closing targeted helixbrain communication…
There must be a preventive measure for this outbreak! How will it be contained this flu season? I have run a specialized tracking program to help me find companies that are working on producing H1N1 vaccines, or killed or weakened microbes administered to stimulate the human immune system to recognize the microbe more quickly, thereby preventing disease. I must transmit word of these vaccines back to the Assembly at once.
The closest organizations in proximity to my current location are CSL Biotherapies, GlaxoSmithKline, MedImmune, and sanofi pasteur…I must travel to these companies to discover more about these vaccines.
I will communicate more information once this situation unfolds…
Helixman
September 30, 2009
Initial Contact with the Land Known as New Jersey...
Log A00000004 – Start Transmission
Good morning inhabitants of Earth. Over the past few days I have had the pleasure of transporting my Helixpod around the great state of New Jersey. I have found it to be a very strategic location for the observation of bio-innovation, as well as for its proximity to the “galaxy renowned” financial markets.
I was shocked to learn that one of the greatest innovators of all time, Thomas Alva Edison, or ‘The Wizard of Menlo Park’, was born here, in the city which is now called…Edison. As I made my way deeper into this intriguing state I found that 15 of the world’s top pharmaceutical companies have their global or North American headquarters here. As I investigated further, I discovered that New Jersey has the nation’s highest concentration of scientific professionals with 184,000 working throughout the state.
I couldn’t travel one Earth mile without my BioStrength Locator reading some sort of bioscience strength, but that is probably because New Jersey is home to more than 240 biotechnology companies, making it, as I compare with other studies completed by scholars and explorers before me, the 4th largest biotechnology center in the nation! This state is truly a treasure trove of bio-innovation. As I traveled through one of these biotechnology establishments, I was told that New Jersey is #3 in bioscience venture capital investments and #4 in the number of bioscience patents issued in 2008! This place is utterly amazing!
Through some inter-galactic guidance I learned of a place called Princeton, so I decided to visit this institution of learning. When I learned that the great professor Albert Einstein walked across the threshold of this great university I was astounded. “Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.” As the protector of innovation, this quote from Einstein will be something I remember for a long time.
My days have been crammed with visits to all of these innovative companies, both large and small. I am absolutely dizzy with the preponderance of the finest research and development facilities I have ever seen. I have just learned that since the inception of the Edison Innovation Fund in October 2006, $388 million has been invested in life sciences and technology companies, who are seeking to grow in New Jersey.
While I was here I used my Biotech 2009 brochure that I found on the green roof of the Science Center in Philadelphia as a guide, and realized that Schering-Plough Corporation is based in New Jersey…and Fred Hassan, chairman and CEO, is the luncheon keynote speaker on November 17. With the diversity of companies here in this innovative state, there will be something for everyone at Biotech 2009. I am becoming increasingly more excited for this event with each day that passes…
Wait…what is this…influenza…H…1…N…1…I have just received some extremely startling and perplexing news…I cannot compute…I must research this and develop my thoughts before I transmit…something…about…H1N1…it must be some sort of a code…I will figure out this mysterious series of letters and 1’s and communicate when I have found more information.
Until then…
Helixman
Log A00000004 – End Transmission
Good morning inhabitants of Earth. Over the past few days I have had the pleasure of transporting my Helixpod around the great state of New Jersey. I have found it to be a very strategic location for the observation of bio-innovation, as well as for its proximity to the “galaxy renowned” financial markets.
I was shocked to learn that one of the greatest innovators of all time, Thomas Alva Edison, or ‘The Wizard of Menlo Park’, was born here, in the city which is now called…Edison. As I made my way deeper into this intriguing state I found that 15 of the world’s top pharmaceutical companies have their global or North American headquarters here. As I investigated further, I discovered that New Jersey has the nation’s highest concentration of scientific professionals with 184,000 working throughout the state.
I couldn’t travel one Earth mile without my BioStrength Locator reading some sort of bioscience strength, but that is probably because New Jersey is home to more than 240 biotechnology companies, making it, as I compare with other studies completed by scholars and explorers before me, the 4th largest biotechnology center in the nation! This state is truly a treasure trove of bio-innovation. As I traveled through one of these biotechnology establishments, I was told that New Jersey is #3 in bioscience venture capital investments and #4 in the number of bioscience patents issued in 2008! This place is utterly amazing!
Through some inter-galactic guidance I learned of a place called Princeton, so I decided to visit this institution of learning. When I learned that the great professor Albert Einstein walked across the threshold of this great university I was astounded. “Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.” As the protector of innovation, this quote from Einstein will be something I remember for a long time.
My days have been crammed with visits to all of these innovative companies, both large and small. I am absolutely dizzy with the preponderance of the finest research and development facilities I have ever seen. I have just learned that since the inception of the Edison Innovation Fund in October 2006, $388 million has been invested in life sciences and technology companies, who are seeking to grow in New Jersey.
While I was here I used my Biotech 2009 brochure that I found on the green roof of the Science Center in Philadelphia as a guide, and realized that Schering-Plough Corporation is based in New Jersey…and Fred Hassan, chairman and CEO, is the luncheon keynote speaker on November 17. With the diversity of companies here in this innovative state, there will be something for everyone at Biotech 2009. I am becoming increasingly more excited for this event with each day that passes…
Wait…what is this…influenza…H…1…N…1…I have just received some extremely startling and perplexing news…I cannot compute…I must research this and develop my thoughts before I transmit…something…about…H1N1…it must be some sort of a code…I will figure out this mysterious series of letters and 1’s and communicate when I have found more information.
Until then…
Helixman
Log A00000004 – End Transmission
September 24, 2009
You mean...I'm not the only protector of innovation?
Log A00000003 – Start Transmission
Good afternoon all. Yesterday evening, after my incredibly educational and enlightening visit to The University City Science Center, I navigated my Helixpod 300.1 miles west, under the direction of my BioStrength Locator, to Pittsburgh. Upon initial inspection of the G-20 welcome banners, I realized that of the twenty flags represented, the Banner of Beakeris was not included. I say, fair and democratic people of this assembly, include Beakeris in your 2010 summit! Create the G21! Let the voices of double-helixes everywhere be heard!
Yesterday, I thought I would be arriving in a true ‘city of steel’, however this city seems to me more like an epicenter of innovation, and as you all know, I am the investigator of all things interesting, and the protector of all things innovative. I shall make my objective known to you, innovative people of this incredible metropolis of Pittsburgh, I am here to protect your innovations, and your innovators!
Since my arrival here, I have had the pleasure of visiting the medical device cluster, as well as many research institutions; including the University of Pittsburgh, Duquesne University, Carnegie Mellon, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, The Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, and the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, which is developing incredible technology which will help US troops and the global population (…hopefully Beakeris too.) This research institution is leading the way in the research on tissue engineering, cell therapy, and medical devices that are crucial in the development of regenerative therapies that will seek to repair diseased or damaged tissue and organs. On top of that, the University of Pittsburgh is researching the use of lymph nodes to one day produce liver cells, pancreatic cells, and other vital tissues. This information is unbelievable. I must make a transmission back to The Assembly at once…but wait…I can’t without mentioning some of my other findings.
It was undoubtedly one of the most astounding things when I learned about the Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse, and their dedication to their companies and to the region. This life science greenhouse has worked with more than 300 companies and has committed 121 direct investments in 60 companies, which total $14.7 million. But what amazed me even more is the fact that those direct investments have already been leveraged into $500 million in additional capital which has helped advance regional economic growth. The PLSG and its employees seem to be much like me…true protectors of innovation!
My BioStrength Locator was immediately reading some of the highest levels I have ever recorded. 85,347 B.S.U…B.S.U. being the abbreviation for Bioscience Strength Units of course…I thought that something must be malfunctioning within my B.S.L. I was wrong. After my visit, I was sure that nothing was wrong with my BioStrength Locator, and as I came to find out, Beakeris has much to learn from all of Pittsburgh’s incredibly innovative institutions.
I can not remove the thought of Biotech 2009 from my brain. With all of these medical device companies here, I am sure I will see some of these great innovators in the drug delivery, device, and diagnostics sessions, which are planned for Monday, November 16…and wait…with such close proximity, 305.44 miles to the Pennsylvania Convention Center…everyone should be there! The Grand Centrifugium Assembly has already sent a response in regards to my findings from The City of Bioscience...err..umm..Brotherly Love, and are anxiously anticipating my next transmission so I must be on my way. I am programming my BioStrength Locator to pick up signals from the state of New Jersey. The Bioscience strength east of here seems to be reading at an unprecedented level. I will keep you posted on my findings.
Until next time.
Helixman
Log A00000003 – End Transmission
Good afternoon all. Yesterday evening, after my incredibly educational and enlightening visit to The University City Science Center, I navigated my Helixpod 300.1 miles west, under the direction of my BioStrength Locator, to Pittsburgh. Upon initial inspection of the G-20 welcome banners, I realized that of the twenty flags represented, the Banner of Beakeris was not included. I say, fair and democratic people of this assembly, include Beakeris in your 2010 summit! Create the G21! Let the voices of double-helixes everywhere be heard!
Yesterday, I thought I would be arriving in a true ‘city of steel’, however this city seems to me more like an epicenter of innovation, and as you all know, I am the investigator of all things interesting, and the protector of all things innovative. I shall make my objective known to you, innovative people of this incredible metropolis of Pittsburgh, I am here to protect your innovations, and your innovators!
Since my arrival here, I have had the pleasure of visiting the medical device cluster, as well as many research institutions; including the University of Pittsburgh, Duquesne University, Carnegie Mellon, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, The Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, and the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, which is developing incredible technology which will help US troops and the global population (…hopefully Beakeris too.) This research institution is leading the way in the research on tissue engineering, cell therapy, and medical devices that are crucial in the development of regenerative therapies that will seek to repair diseased or damaged tissue and organs. On top of that, the University of Pittsburgh is researching the use of lymph nodes to one day produce liver cells, pancreatic cells, and other vital tissues. This information is unbelievable. I must make a transmission back to The Assembly at once…but wait…I can’t without mentioning some of my other findings.
It was undoubtedly one of the most astounding things when I learned about the Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse, and their dedication to their companies and to the region. This life science greenhouse has worked with more than 300 companies and has committed 121 direct investments in 60 companies, which total $14.7 million. But what amazed me even more is the fact that those direct investments have already been leveraged into $500 million in additional capital which has helped advance regional economic growth. The PLSG and its employees seem to be much like me…true protectors of innovation!
My BioStrength Locator was immediately reading some of the highest levels I have ever recorded. 85,347 B.S.U…B.S.U. being the abbreviation for Bioscience Strength Units of course…I thought that something must be malfunctioning within my B.S.L. I was wrong. After my visit, I was sure that nothing was wrong with my BioStrength Locator, and as I came to find out, Beakeris has much to learn from all of Pittsburgh’s incredibly innovative institutions.
I can not remove the thought of Biotech 2009 from my brain. With all of these medical device companies here, I am sure I will see some of these great innovators in the drug delivery, device, and diagnostics sessions, which are planned for Monday, November 16…and wait…with such close proximity, 305.44 miles to the Pennsylvania Convention Center…everyone should be there! The Grand Centrifugium Assembly has already sent a response in regards to my findings from The City of Bioscience...err..umm..Brotherly Love, and are anxiously anticipating my next transmission so I must be on my way. I am programming my BioStrength Locator to pick up signals from the state of New Jersey. The Bioscience strength east of here seems to be reading at an unprecedented level. I will keep you posted on my findings.
Until next time.
Helixman
Log A00000003 – End Transmission
September 23, 2009
Greater Philadelphia, The University City Science Center...and a Green Roof?
Log A00000002 – Start Transmission
Good afternoon. I have made my way to The University City Science Center in Philadelphia. It’s appropriate that my journey starts here – at the nation’s first urban research park. This is truly a grand space, and my BioStrength Locator is reading off the charts. As I approached this hub of activity my Helixsenses were indicating high levels of bioscience activity as I passed many learning and research institutions – as well as start-up bioscience companies. I took note of these places and sent them back to the Grand Centrifugium Assembly. My report included information on Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania, as well as the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. It is hard for me to believe that I have discovered so much in such a short time.
The facilities at The Science Center are extremely impressive. From what I can gather, this space serves as a physical hub that brings together entrepreneurs, scientists, emerging bioscience companies and established businesses with all of the resources they could ever need to be successful. If my calculations are correct, the total size of all facility space that The Science Center offers is nearly two million square feet. The Grand Centerfugium Assembly will be extremely pleased when I transmit my report.
I have gathered an immense amount of information about this place as I wandered the halls, and also its 'green roof.’ The graduate organizations, as they call companies that move out of the Science Center space, as well as current residents of the business incubators, have created more than 15,000 jobs that remain in the Greater Philadelphia region today, and contribute more than $9 billion to the regional economy annually. These figures are so staggering that my Helixbrain is having problems computing the information. This would mean that of the 350-plus organizations that “graduated” from the University City Science Center, 93 are still in the Greater Philadelphia region, and these 93 companies, if my math is correct, employ more than 15,000 people. If I deduce this information ever further, each of these 15,000 employees would generate an additional 1.68 jobs throughout the region due to indirect and induced economic demand. This is astounding! No wonder my BioStrength Locator was indicating such high levels of bioscience activity. This is truly one of the more remarkable things I have seen. I must transmit this information back to the Assembly at once!
Wait…what’s this? As I’m standing here on the Science Center’s ‘green roof’ making this transmission, a brochure for Biotech 2009 just blew across my feet. Hmm…finance; communications; growth strategies for bioscience companies; drug delivery, device, and diagnostics; regulatory; hot topics in business; hot topics in science…these must all be the session tracks that will be featured at Biotech 2009! After my visit here at The Science Center, I’m sure that the track on growth strategies for bioscience companies will be a gigantic draw for companies located here within the incubators. November 16 is rapidly approaching; I only have 53 days and a few hours until this event begins.
I will be back in touch soon, as I have heard rumors of a G-20 conference in the western part of this state. I must travel there at once. So much to see before Biotech 2009…I must make haste!
To the Helixpod!
Until we meet again…
Helixman
Log A00000002 – End Transmission
Good afternoon. I have made my way to The University City Science Center in Philadelphia. It’s appropriate that my journey starts here – at the nation’s first urban research park. This is truly a grand space, and my BioStrength Locator is reading off the charts. As I approached this hub of activity my Helixsenses were indicating high levels of bioscience activity as I passed many learning and research institutions – as well as start-up bioscience companies. I took note of these places and sent them back to the Grand Centrifugium Assembly. My report included information on Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania, as well as the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. It is hard for me to believe that I have discovered so much in such a short time.
The facilities at The Science Center are extremely impressive. From what I can gather, this space serves as a physical hub that brings together entrepreneurs, scientists, emerging bioscience companies and established businesses with all of the resources they could ever need to be successful. If my calculations are correct, the total size of all facility space that The Science Center offers is nearly two million square feet. The Grand Centerfugium Assembly will be extremely pleased when I transmit my report.
I have gathered an immense amount of information about this place as I wandered the halls, and also its 'green roof.’ The graduate organizations, as they call companies that move out of the Science Center space, as well as current residents of the business incubators, have created more than 15,000 jobs that remain in the Greater Philadelphia region today, and contribute more than $9 billion to the regional economy annually. These figures are so staggering that my Helixbrain is having problems computing the information. This would mean that of the 350-plus organizations that “graduated” from the University City Science Center, 93 are still in the Greater Philadelphia region, and these 93 companies, if my math is correct, employ more than 15,000 people. If I deduce this information ever further, each of these 15,000 employees would generate an additional 1.68 jobs throughout the region due to indirect and induced economic demand. This is astounding! No wonder my BioStrength Locator was indicating such high levels of bioscience activity. This is truly one of the more remarkable things I have seen. I must transmit this information back to the Assembly at once!
Wait…what’s this? As I’m standing here on the Science Center’s ‘green roof’ making this transmission, a brochure for Biotech 2009 just blew across my feet. Hmm…finance; communications; growth strategies for bioscience companies; drug delivery, device, and diagnostics; regulatory; hot topics in business; hot topics in science…these must all be the session tracks that will be featured at Biotech 2009! After my visit here at The Science Center, I’m sure that the track on growth strategies for bioscience companies will be a gigantic draw for companies located here within the incubators. November 16 is rapidly approaching; I only have 53 days and a few hours until this event begins.
I will be back in touch soon, as I have heard rumors of a G-20 conference in the western part of this state. I must travel there at once. So much to see before Biotech 2009…I must make haste!
To the Helixpod!
Until we meet again…
Helixman
Log A00000002 – End Transmission
September 21, 2009
The Arrival
Log A00000001 - Start Transmission
Good day to you, fine people of the bioscience world! I am Helixman, investigator of all things interesting, and protector of all things innovative. I have been sent to this region by the Grand Centrifugium Assembly, the governing body of my home planet of Beakeris, made up of only the wisest and most noble elders. They wish for me to research and record all of my findings on the bioscience industry within the area of Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Earlier today I landed my Helixpod in Philadelphia, since it seems to be the most central location for me to start my expedition. I’m seeing signs advertising Biotech 2009 on November 16 and 17, 2009 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, but I’m unsure of what it is exactly. Is the bioscience strength in this region so strong that there could actually be a large gathering dedicated to it? My senses are pulling me in all directions…but where will I start my journey? My BioStrength Locator is directing me towards what is known as The Science Center. I will start my quest there, to see if I can learn more about this region and its incredible bioscience strength.
I will keep you updated through this communication medium as I make more progress and make new discoveries.
Until next time.
Helixman
Log A00000001 – End Transmission
Good day to you, fine people of the bioscience world! I am Helixman, investigator of all things interesting, and protector of all things innovative. I have been sent to this region by the Grand Centrifugium Assembly, the governing body of my home planet of Beakeris, made up of only the wisest and most noble elders. They wish for me to research and record all of my findings on the bioscience industry within the area of Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Earlier today I landed my Helixpod in Philadelphia, since it seems to be the most central location for me to start my expedition. I’m seeing signs advertising Biotech 2009 on November 16 and 17, 2009 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, but I’m unsure of what it is exactly. Is the bioscience strength in this region so strong that there could actually be a large gathering dedicated to it? My senses are pulling me in all directions…but where will I start my journey? My BioStrength Locator is directing me towards what is known as The Science Center. I will start my quest there, to see if I can learn more about this region and its incredible bioscience strength.
I will keep you updated through this communication medium as I make more progress and make new discoveries.
Until next time.
Helixman
Log A00000001 – End Transmission
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