BioTalk with Rich Bendis

In this episode of BioTalk, Rich Bendis welcomes Dr. Helen Sabzevari, President and CEO of Precigen, to discuss the company’s cutting-edge science in gene and cell therapy. Dr. Sabzevari shares how Precigen’s unique AdenoVerse® platform has powered the development of PRGN-2012, a potential first-in-class therapeutic currently under FDA priority review for the treatment of adults with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP), a rare and devastating disease. She also highlights advances across Precigen’s broader pipeline in immuno-oncology and autoimmune disease and reflects on how Maryland’s BioHealth Capital Region has supported the company’s innovation and growth. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant. Dr. Helen Sabzevari is the President and CEO of Precigen, Inc., and a leading expert in immunotherapy-based therapeutics. She previously served in executive roles at Compass Therapeutics and Merck KGaA/EMD Serono, where she advanced numerous immuno-oncology programs. Dr. Sabzevari began her career at the National Cancer Institute and has been widely recognized for her leadership and scientific contributions, including honors from NIH, SITC, and Forbes.

In this episode of BioTalk, Lara Mangravite, PhD, Executive Director of Digitalis Commons, joins the conversation to explore how scientific research is shifting in the U.S.—from centralized, institutional models to a more decentralized, innovation-driven landscape. She shares the mission of Digitalis Commons and explains how the organization is working at the intersection of technology, research, and public good to address systemic barriers in health and healthcare. Drawing from her recent article, "Notes on Catalyzing Health," Lara discusses the growing role of independent research institutions, the challenges of fragmentation, and why this moment calls for new leadership models and public-interest partnerships that can drive coordinated, high-impact solutions. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant. Lara Mangravite, PhD, is Executive Director at Digitalis Commons, a nonprofit organization developing scalable, frontier-advancing solutions to critical problems in health. She previously served as President of Sage Bionetworks, where she led initiatives to build and share multi-modal human data for biomedical research. Lara earned her BS in Physics from Pennsylvania State University, her PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from the University of California, San Francisco, and completed a postdoctoral fellowship in cardiovascular pharmacogenomics at the Children’s Hospital Oakland Research Institute.

In this episode of BioTalk, Amy C. Hay, Chief Business and Strategy Officer at the Cell Therapy Manufacturing Center (CTMC), joins the conversation to explore the evolving landscape of cell and gene therapy. Amy shares insights from her extensive career in oncology care and innovation, highlighting the role CTMC—a joint venture between National Resilience and MD Anderson Cancer Center—is playing in accelerating the transition from discovery to commercialization. She discusses the current state of the industry, what disruption really means in this context, and how new business models can drive stability and impact for early-stage biotech companies. Amy also offers her perspective on how manufacturing must evolve to meet clinical demand, and how CTMC is positioned to lead in this next era of therapeutic development. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant. Amy C. Hay is the Chief Business and Strategy Officer at the Cell Therapy Manufacturing Center (CTMC), a joint venture between National Resilience and MD Anderson Cancer Center. She brings decades of experience in oncology care, strategic growth, and healthcare innovation to her role, where she leads business strategy, partnerships, and long-term growth initiatives. Prior to CTMC, Amy held leadership roles at Varian (a Siemens Healthineers company), MD Anderson Cancer Center, and several global consulting efforts focused on advancing cancer care. Her career spans work across the U.S. and internationally, with a focus on driving innovation, commercialization, and patient access in complex health systems.

In this episode of BioTalk, Sam Tetlow, Founder and CEO of Grant Engine, joins the conversation to unpack how companies can successfully navigate the rapidly changing world of non-dilutive funding. With continued resolutions, shifting agency priorities, and evolving leadership at HHS and beyond, 2025 presents both new hurdles and new opportunities for biotech and health innovators. Sam shares actionable insights on what’s changed under the current administration, where funding gaps exist, and how early-stage companies can align proposals with both individual program officers and federal leadership. He also offers proven strategies for building champions, writing competitive applications, and thinking differently about the grant process in today's environment. Sam Tetlow is the Founder and CEO of Grant Engine, where he leads a team focused on securing funding for leading life science companies through SBIR, BARDA, ARPA-H, NIH, DoD, and NSF opportunities. A serial entrepreneur and experienced investor, Sam has contributed to the success of companies like EpiCypher, Gentris Corporation, and Tranzyme Pharma (IPO in 2011). With over two decades of experience and a 6.2x return on invested capital, he brings deep knowledge of the strategic, financial, and technical aspects of life science commercialization. Sam holds a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and an MBA from UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant.

In this episode of BioTalk, we welcome Rick Wieczorek, President and CEO of the NIH Federal Credit Union (NIHFCU), to discuss how credit unions like NIHFCU are uniquely positioned to support the biohealth and healthcare communities. With over 40 years of industry experience, Rick shares his journey from teller to CEO and reflects on NIHFCU’s 85-year history, its mission-driven approach to service, and the importance of tailoring financial solutions to meet the needs of life science professionals. He also explains the benefits of membership, the value of the NIHFCU "At Work" program for employers, and how the credit union’s “Banking with Heart” philosophy is making a difference across the BioHealth Capital Region. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant. Rick Wieczorek has been in the credit union industry for over 40 years and currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of the NIH Federal Credit Union. Since taking the helm in 2013, he has focused on making NIHFCU the preferred provider of financial services for the healthcare and biomedical communities. His previous roles include President and CEO of Mid-Atlantic Federal Credit Union and CFO of NRL Federal Credit Union, where he became recognized as an expert in asset liability management and wealth strategy. Rick has also served as Chairman of the MD|DC Credit Union Association Board of Directors. A graduate of George Mason University with an MBA from George Washington University, Rick began his career as a teller and brings deep expertise and passion to his leadership in mission-driven financial services.

In this episode of BioTalk, host Rich Bendis welcomes Sona Shah, CEO and Co-Founder of Neopenda, for an inspiring conversation on innovation, impact, and scaling medical technology in underserved markets. Sona shares how a formative experience teaching in rural Kenya ignited her passion for global health, leading to the creation of neoGuard, a wearable vital signs monitor tailored for low-resource settings. They discuss the engineering challenges of building clinical-grade hardware for hospitals with limited infrastructure, the company’s growth from Maryland’s Relevant Health accelerator, and the deployment of over 350 devices across East and West Africa. Sona also talks about Neopenda’s next wave of products, lessons in balancing cost and quality, and the importance of community, resilience, and mission-driven entrepreneurship. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant. Sona Shah is the CEO and Co-founder of Neopenda, a company dedicated to improving healthcare access in emerging markets. Neopenda develops innovative medical technologies—such as the neoGuard system—designed to help healthcare providers deliver high-quality care in low-resource settings. The company's mission is to make life-saving technology available where it’s needed most. Sona’s path into global health innovation began during a semester teaching primary school in Kenya, where she witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by under-resourced healthcare systems. That experience, paired with her background in biomedical engineering, inspired her to co-found Neopenda in 2015. Since then, the company has focused on delivering scalable, impactful solutions to countries including Kenya, Uganda, and Ghana, with a long-term goal of reaching the next billion people who could benefit from better access to care. She remains committed to advancing tech-driven healthcare solutions that make a meaningful difference in the world’s most underserved communities.

In this timely episode of BioTalk, returning guest Alex Philippidis, Senior Business Editor at Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News, joins host Rich Bendis to explore how sweeping changes in U.S. regulatory policy, workforce dynamics, and economic pressures are affecting the biotech industry in real time. Alex breaks down the potential consequences of FDA workforce cuts, particularly for small and mid-sized biotechs that depend on regulatory guidance, and offers perspective on how HHS and NIH budget proposals could reshape the national innovation infrastructure. The conversation covers everything from the impact of tariffs on manufacturing and supply chains to the slowing pace of M&A activity and venture capital investment trends. Alex also shares his insights on IPO strategy shifts, and whether the current biotech environment is poised for a rebound—or a broader realignment with global competitors. This is a must-listen episode for anyone navigating the uncertain waters of biotech in 2025. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant. Alex Philippidis is the Senior Business Editor at Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News (GEN). Specializing in biopharma business news and industry issues, Alex joined GEN in 2011 after covering research institutes at GenomeWeb and editing the BioRegion News newsletter. With over 20 years of experience in journalism, Alex has reported on various topics for newspapers and has been featured in major media outlets such as the New York Times and the BBC.

What does it take to establish Maryland as a powerhouse for biotech commercialization? In this episode of BioTalk with Rich Bendis, Dr. Deborah Hemingway, Founder and Managing Partner of Ecphora Capital, shares her insights on the current investment landscape in the BioHealth Capital Region. She discusses the strategic advantages that make Maryland uniquely positioned for success, the critical gaps that must be addressed, and how state and local governments can provide essential support through tax credits, grants, and economic incentives. Dr. Hemingway also highlights Ecphora Capital’s impact, having deployed $15 million in the last two years, and reveals the firm’s strategy for future investments, including SPVs and a dedicated fund. With deep experience in medtech commercialization, strategic partnerships, and early-stage investing, she offers valuable perspectives on where the industry is headed in 2025 and how companies can thrive in an evolving biotech ecosystem. Tune in for a compelling conversation on innovation, investment, and the future of biotech in the BioHealth Capital Region. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com). Dr. Deborah Hemingway is the Founder and Managing Partner of Ecphora Capital, a medtech venture capital firm in Baltimore, Maryland. Ecphora Capital leverages first-look access at world-class medical research and manufacturing institutions and is the first and only entity to achieve the top level of a state tax credit program that refunds 75% of their investment. Additionally, Dr. Hemingway has profound involvement in the entrepreneurial landscape, having founded, invested in, and held board positions for 53 startup companies over twenty years. She has meticulously sharpened her acumen in medical device commercialization, strategic growth, and investing. She is on the board of directors for Mi-Helper and Novel Microdevices. Dr. Hemingway holds a Ph.D. in biophysics from the University of Maryland, College Park.

In this episode of BioTalk, host Rich Bendis is joined by Amitabh Varshney, Dean of the College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences and a Professor of Computer Science at the University of Maryland, College Park. Together, they explore the groundbreaking advancements in artificial intelligence and health computing driven by the University of Maryland (UMD). Dean Varshney discusses the launch of the Artificial Intelligence Interdisciplinary Institute at Maryland (AIM) earlier this year. He shares insights into the vision behind AIM, the strategic hiring of new faculty, the allocation of seed grants, and the development of academic programs in AI, all solidifying UMD's position as a leader in this rapidly evolving field. The conversation also delves into the University of Maryland Institute for Health Computing (UM-IHC), which recently marked its two-year anniversary. Dean Varshney highlights the institute's achievements, including its partnerships with organizations like the FDA and NIH, patent submissions, and collaborations with AstraZeneca and 20/20 Gene Systems. He explains how UM-IHC's efforts are reshaping the intersection of health and technology. Rich and Dean Varshney discuss UMD's commitment to innovation and its role in tackling national challenges through interdisciplinary education, cutting-edge research, and collaborations with industry partners, government agencies, and research institutions. They also reflect on the university's integral role within the BioHealth Capital Region and its contribution to advancing scientific discovery, economic growth, and regional leadership in biotech and health innovation. Tune in to hear how UMD's focus on AI and health computing is shaping the future of education, research, and collaboration. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com). Amitabh Varshney is Dean of the College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences and a Professor of Computer Science at the University of Maryland, College Park. Varshney is currently exploring applications of virtual and augmented reality in several areas, including education, healthcare, and telemedicine. His research focuses on exploring the applications of high-performance visualization in engineering, science, and medicine. He has worked on a number of research areas including visual saliency, summarization of large visual datasets, and visual computing for big data. He has served in various roles in the IEEE Visualization and Graphics Technical Committee, including as its Chair (2008–12). He received the IEEE Visualization Technical Achievement Award in 2004. He is a Fellow of IEEE and a member of the IEEE Visualization Academy.

In this episode of BioTalk with Rich Bendis, Dr. Kolaleh Eskandanian, Vice President and Chief Innovation Officer at Children’s National Hospital, discusses her work driving pediatric healthcare innovation. Dr. Eskandanian introduces the BARDA SPARK Accelerator, a groundbreaking initiative focused on advancing medical countermeasures for children, and explains how it aligns with Children’s National’s mission to lead in pediatric healthcare innovation. She also highlights the unique challenges in developing pediatric medical countermeasures and the importance of partnerships with organizations like Rainbow Babies, Mass General, and others. Additionally, Dr. Eskandanian shares insights into the hospital’s role in fostering innovation through the National Capital Consortium for Pediatric Device Innovation (NCC-PDI) and the Children’s National Research and Innovation Campus. Join us for an engaging conversation about the future of pediatric healthcare, the opportunities for innovation, and how the SPARK Accelerator is paving the way for advancements that will improve the lives of children worldwide. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant. Kolaleh Eskandanian, Ph.D., M.B.A., P.M.P. is Vice President and Chief Innovation Officer at Children’s National Hospital, reporting to hospital’s Executive Vice President, Physician-In-Chief and Chief Academic Officer. In this capacity, she oversees the Office of Innovation Ventures, the Sheikh Zayed Institute’s R&D operations, and has a leadership role in the development of the Children’s National Research and Innovation Campus (opening 2020). She is also the executive director of the FDA-funded National Capital Consortium for Pediatric Device Innovation (NCC-PDI), focused on accelerating the path to market for pediatric devices. Eskandanian works with a large network of small and large businesses, nonprofits and government agencies –addressing the unmet medical needs of children. She is the producer of an annual innovation competition that supports small businesses who demonstrate the ability to address a significant medical need in the pediatric space. Eskandanian’s expertise includes the full spectrum of product development activities, having held management positions at Accenture, a global management consulting firm, where she directed major product launches for clients. Eskandanian is the co-PI on the FDA-funded Global Pediatric Clinical Trials Network grant and the CTSI-CN lead of the Orphan Product Accelerator. Eskandanian’s own innovations are in the market space, used by millions. She is the lead inventor of the first-ever adverse event reporting system, initially deployed in a research academic environment. This technology and its derivatives have now been in the market for over 10 years. She has had leadership roles in the development of the first web-based trouble entry management system for a Fortune 100 company in the telecommunications sector. She has been a key contributor in securing over $40 million in government funding for two large research enterprises. Prior to joining Children’s National, Kolaleh held positions with Intelsat, Accenture and Georgetown University. Her background is in mechanical engineering with a PhD in operations science and an MBA from American University Kogod School of Business.

In this episode of BioTalk, Bill Tompkins, President and CEO of the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC), discusses the strategies driving Montgomery County’s position as a leading bioscience hub. Bill highlights MCEDC’s role in reinforcing the region’s standing as the third-largest bioscience cluster in the U.S. and shares insights into the new Institute for Health Computing. He also introduces two new venture funds—the Technology Innovation Fund and the Founders Fund—designed to accelerate innovation and support local entrepreneurs. Bill outlines MCEDC’s priorities for the upcoming year, emphasizing economic growth, investment opportunities, and fostering collaborations that make Montgomery County a thriving ecosystem for business and life sciences. Bill Tompkins is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC), based in Rockville MD. He leads a team of twenty-five diverse professionals who work to fulfill the mission of making Montgomery County one of the best, most diverse and equitable places to be in business in the country. Bill was previously Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and has been with MCEDC since January of 2019. Bill has a seasoned background in marketing, business operations, strategic planning, and nonprofit management, with most of his career serving as a senior executive in the media and entertainment industries with Fortune 500 companies. Bill also ran a consulting practice which advised companies on strategic business opportunities and brand transformation strategies. From May 2014 until August 2015, Bill was Vice President, Advertising and Marketing at The Philadelphia Tribune. He made a strategic investment in The Tribune to help ensure the long-term sustainability of Black media in the US. In July 2012, he was named President and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, a Washington based organization, which represents over two hundred Black owned and operated newspapers across the nation. Bill joined the Eastman Kodak Company in 2000 as Chief Marketing Officer for the Entertainment Imaging Business unit and became Vice President and General Manager of the Motion Picture Film Group while also serving as a corporate vice president. Prior to Kodak, Bill spent nineteen years from 1982 until 2000 at The Washington Post Newspaper in a variety of executive positions. His most recent position there was Vice President of Marketing with most of his career spent in the Advertising and Circulation Departments. Bill has been in active leadership positions on several nonprofit Boards including the Mosaic Theater Company of DC where he is Treasurer and the former Chair of the Board, Rockville Economic Development (REDI), Worksource Montgomery and the Advisory Boards of the Universities at Shady Grove and Montgomery Moving Forward. He was previously Chairman, National Kidney Foundation, National Capital Area, member, Board of Directors, California Chamber of Commerce, the Advertising Council, the Studio Theatre, The Washington Convention and Visitors Association, The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington, the American Black Film Festival Advisory Board, and The Helen Hayes Awards Committee. He is also a member of the Executive Leadership Council, and a graduate of Leadership Washington. Bill is a member of the Economic Club of Washington, the Executive Leadership Council, and a graduate of Leadership Washington. Bill received his MBA from the Harvard Business School where he was a General Motors Fellow and received his BA in Economics, magna cum laude from Tufts University. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

In this episode of BioTalk, host Rich Bendis welcomes Ric Hughen, CEO of Linshom Medical, and Talia Feldman, Software Engineer at Linshom Medical, to discuss their groundbreaking advancements in respiratory monitoring technology. As the main winners of the 2024 Crab Trap Competition at the 10th Annual BioHealth Capital Region Week, Ric and Talia share Linshom’s mission to improve patient safety through their innovative and accessible respiratory monitoring devices. Ric explains how Linshom is addressing critical gaps in respiratory monitoring by bringing operating-room-quality data to patient bedsides and homes. Talia shares insights from the engineering side, highlighting the challenges and breakthroughs in developing reliable and user-friendly technology. The conversation explores Linshom’s roots in the BioHealth Capital Region and how its partnerships and resources have been instrumental to the company’s growth. Talia reflects on her experience presenting at the Crab Trap Competition, and Ric discusses how this recognition aligns with Linshom’s broader visibility and growth objectives. Looking ahead, Ric and Talia provide a glimpse into Linshom’s future, including upcoming milestones and advancements that promise to further revolutionize respiratory care. Don’t miss this episode filled with innovation, collaboration, and a vision for transforming patient safety. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com). Richard Hughen’s thirty years of medical device experience spans three Fortune 500 and three start-up companies with two successful exits to date. He is currently CEO of Linshom Medical, a start-up that is first to deliver operating room quality respiratory data to the patient bedside and home. Ric was an investor and member of the executive team that built start-up CSA Medical, from a technology license (U.S. Navy) through product development, animal trials, clinical trials, five FDA clearances, CE mark, three rounds of funding ($50M), commercial growth and a 2019 sale to Steris. Ric was Managing Director of LearnWare, a life science focused e-learning start-up, which was successfully built and sold to a private equity fund. He is currently a reviewer for the National Science Foundation’s SBIR/STTR program, an Entrepreneur in Residence for Johns Hopkins Tech Ventures, an advisory board member of George Mason University’s Bioengineering Alliance and a site miner for TEDCO at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore. Earlier in his career, Ric led various senior management, marketing, training and sales teams for Johnson & Johnson, BD, Abbott and Cordis. Ric holds MBA and BS degrees from The Pennsylvania State University. Talia Feldman is a software engineer at Linshom Medical, an innovative healthcare technology company at the forefront of transforming respiratory monitoring. Talia received a B.S. in Computer Science with a concentration in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Delaware. Upon graduation she worked as a software engineer in the Maritime Division at Leidos. Now combining her technical skills with a passion for innovation, Talia supports Linshom Medical’s development of providing continuous predictive respiratory monitoring to improve patient care.

In this episode of BioTalk with Rich Bendis, Dr. Eric Edwards, Co-Founder and CEO of MedPhlow, shares how his innovative company is reshaping emergency medicine through cutting-edge drug delivery systems. Dr. Edwards discusses his journey from co-founding Kaléo, where he helped develop life-saving products like AUVI-Q, to leading MedPhlow, a subsidiary of Phlow Corp. Based in Richmond, VA, MedPhlow is dedicated to addressing critical challenges in essential medicine delivery, with its first product focused on improving outcomes during sudden cardiac arrest. Dr. Edwards explains the groundbreaking technology behind MedPhlow’s platform and how it is poised to transform emergency care. He also highlights the impact of investor partnerships, such as those with Virginia Venture Partners, and discusses MedPhlow’s next milestones in its mission to make emergency medicine more efficient and accessible. As a part of the BioHealth Capital Region, Dr. Edwards reflects on the advantages of being based in this vibrant hub of innovation and his contributions as a BioHealth Innovation (BHI) board member. Tune in to learn about the future of MedPhlow and the inspiring work being done to advance life-saving solutions in healthcare. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com). Dr. Edwards was previously co-founder of Kaléo, Inc. a pharmaceutical company in Richmond, VA. During his 16 years at Kaléo, he held several executive management positions including Chief Science Officer where he was responsible for overall scientific strategy and all pharmaceutical development programs; Chief Medical Officer responsible for developing a medical affairs team and capability while operationalizing the Company’s clinical program strategy; and Vice President – Innovation, overseeing Kaleo’s research and development pipeline and overall new product strategy. Dr. Edwards is the co-inventor of multiple marketed products, including AUVI-Q, epinephrine auto-injector for the treatment of allergic emergencies (anaphylaxis), is named on over 215 issued and patent-pending applications, and is a published author on numerous scientific publications. Dr. Edwards also continues to serve his community by volunteering on a local rescue squad, including responding to 911 calls and training paramedics in pre-hospital emergency care. Dr. Edwards. obtained his B.S. in Biology, Ph.D. in the Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Doctor of Medicine degrees at Virginia Commonwealth University/Medical College of Virginia.

Join us for an insightful episode of BioTalk as Rich Bendis speaks with Eric Mayton, CEO of Cerillo, one of the recent winners at the Crab Trap competition during the 10th Annual BioHealth Capital Region Week. Cerillo, based in Charlottesville, VA, is making waves in microbiome research and biological product development with its innovative tools designed to tackle variability challenges and enhance data collection efficiency. In this episode, Eric shares Cerillo’s mission to combat Eroom's Law—the increasing cost and time in drug development—through affordable and accessible research tools like the Stratus and Alto microplate readers. We also dive into the impact of Cerillo’s co-culture duet system, which is transforming cellular interaction studies in fields such as antimicrobial resistance and biofuel development. Learn how being located in the southern part of the BioHealth Capital Region has supported Cerillo’s growth and hear about the company's future plans to further accelerate biological research. Don’t miss this conversation about the innovations driving a new era in cellular analytics. Eric Mayton is the President, CEO, and Chairman of the Board at Cerillo, a Charlottesville, VA based cellular analytics firm focused on increasing the efficiency, reproducibility, and standardization of data collection in scientific research and product development. Eric spent the first decade of his career managing academic and commercial laboratories before earning his MBA from the University of Richmond in 2017. After stints in private equity and management consulting, Eric returned to the biotech industry in 2020 as CEO of Cerillo, a University of Virginia spin-out. Eric holds a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Virginia, a M.S. in Biochemistry from Virginia Commonwealth University, and a M.B.A from the University of Richmond. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (thepodcastconsultant.com).

In this episode of BioTalk, Rich Bendis sits down with Rachel Rath, the Head of JLABS @ Washington, DC, to discuss her journey and insights on building a thriving ecosystem for life sciences innovation. Rachel shares her academic and professional background, from roles at PCORI and BARDA Blue Knight to leading JLABS @ Washington, DC. She offers an in-depth look at JLABS’ national and international footprint, and the significant partnerships with organizations like Children’s National, Virginia Tech, and BARDA that strengthen the innovation landscape across the mid-Atlantic. Tune in as Rachel shares the current priorities at JLABS, highlighting the diversity of its tenant portfolio, which spans MedTech, Pharma, and Integrated Healthcare Solutions. She also discusses how JLABS companies benefit from the support and resources available through Johnson & Johnson, including access to valuable connections, mentorship, and funding opportunities via JJDC. Located in the heart of the BioHealth Capital Region, JLABS @ Washington, DC is well-positioned to drive collaboration and ecosystem growth. Rachel sheds light on the unique advantages of this strategic location and shares her views on addressing the challenges faced by life science startups, from funding access to investment connectivity, and the vital steps needed to elevate the region’s biohealth ecosystem. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com). Rachel is responsible for setting the strategic direction and overseeing all operational activities for JLABS @ Washington, DC. Her responsibilities include P&L management, external engagement, innovation sourcing, portfolio management, and operational excellence in collaboration with the team responsible for the site and the region. In addition to managing the business of JLABS, Rachel is responsible for the process of evaluating, selecting and accelerating a strong portfolio of innovators connected to JLABS @ Washington, DC, which supports companies across the broader region. Prior to this role, Rachel served as the inaugural Director of the BARDA Alliance for Johnson & Johnson Innovation. As BARDA Alliance Director, she was responsible for managing BLUE KNIGHT™, a joint initiative between JLABS and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), which aims to stimulate the innovation and incubation of science and technologies. Rachel led the strategic direction, alliance management, and oversight of all operational activities related to BLUE KNIGHT™, including managing the sourcing and selection of high potential companies for JLABS locations and developing global programming including the annual BLUE KNIGHT™ Symposium. Before joining JLABS, Rachel was the Chief of Staff for the National Evaluation System for health Technology Coordinating Center (NESTcc)—an initiative of the Medical Device Innovation Consortium (MDIC)—that was established with funding from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and was recognized in September 2019 as one of the first collaborative communities with participation by the FDA. Prior to joining NESTcc, Rachel worked at PCORI, helping to launch the Patient-Centered Clinical Research Network (PCORnet), a national effort to engage patients and leverage electronic health data to improve the speed and efficiency of clinical research in the United States. Rachel received her MBA from Georgetown University and MPH in global health policy from The George Washington University.

In this episode of BioTalk, Rich Bendis speaks with Dr. Frank Gupton, Co-Founder of Phlow and CEO of the Medicines for All Institute, about his pioneering efforts to improve pharmaceutical manufacturing and global access to essential medications. Dr. Gupton shares how Phlow is addressing vulnerabilities in the U.S. pharmaceutical supply chain by producing critical medicines domestically, and how the Medicines for All Institute is reshaping the way drugs are made by reducing costs and streamlining production. Drawing on his extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Dr. Gupton discusses the ongoing challenges of ensuring that lifesaving medicines reach those in need worldwide. The discussion also touches on the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing, from emerging technologies like continuous processing to green chemistry's role in creating more sustainable production methods. Dr. Gupton provides insight into how partnerships and collaboration are vital to accelerating these innovations. Join the conversation to hear about the impactful work being done to transform drug manufacturing and access on a global scale. Dr. Frank Gupton is a professor at Virginia Commonwealth University and holds joint appointments in the Departments of Chemistry and the Department of Chemical and Life Science Engineering. He is the Floyd D. Gottwald Chair of Pharmaceutical Engineering and also serves as Department Chair of the Chemical and Life Science Engineering Department. His thirty-year industrial career centered on the development and commercialization of chemical processes for pharmaceutical applications. Dr. Gupton’s research group is currently focused on the development of continuous processing technology to facilitate the discovery, development and commercialization of drug products. Prior to joining the faculty at Virginia Commonwealth University, Dr. Gupton served as the Executive Director of North American Process Development for Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals and led the commercialization of the widely prescribed HIV drug nevirapine. Dr. Gupton received his Bachelors of Science degree in chemistry from the University of Richmond and graduate degrees in organic chemistry from Georgia Tech and Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Gupton’s research efforts have focused on streamlining pharmaceutical processes, particularly in the area of active ingredients, by employing the principles of process intensification which include the use of innovative chemistry, novel continuous manufacturing platforms, and new and more efficient catalysts for pharmaceutical applications. The research group’s efforts are guided and driven based on both financial and economic impact that can be derived from this effort. Dr. Gupton is the recipient of the 2018 American Chemical Society Award for Affordable Green Chemistry, and in the same year, he received the Presidential Award for Green Chemistry. In 2019 he received the Peter J. Dunn Award for Green Chemistry and Engineering Impact in the Pharmaceutical Industry from the ACS Green Chemistry Institute Pharmaceutical Round Table. These awards were associated with Professor Gupton’s work on the development of a highly efficient process to produce nevirapine, a first-line treatment in HIV therapy. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (thepodcastconsultant.com).

In this episode of BioTalk, Rich Bendis, President and CEO of BioHealth Innovation, Inc., sits down with Peter Ronco, Chief Executive Officer of Emmes, a global full-service Clinical Research Organization (CRO). Peter discusses his transition from leading roles at Janssen R&D and Bristol Myers Squibb to guiding Emmes' strategic direction and operations. Peter introduces Emmes, its growth as a full-service CRO, and the recent partnership with New Mountain Capital that has accelerated global acquisitions and diversified services. He also discusses the formation of the Emmes Group, which includes Veridix AI, and the latest partnership with Mimansa AI, highlighting the impact of AI in clinical research. The conversation also covers the strategic importance of Rockville, Maryland, as Emmes' headquarters and why Montgomery County is an ideal location. Peter wraps up by outlining Emmes' future growth plans. About Peter Ronco: Peter Ronco is the CEO of Emmes, with extensive global experience in pharmaceutical development. He oversees the strategic and operational aspects of Emmes, a leading CRO operating in over 30 countries. Prior to Emmes, Peter held senior roles at Janssen R&D and Bristol Myers Squibb. Tune in to BioTalk for a focused discussion with Peter Ronco on Emmes' growth, AI in clinical research, and the future of global drug development. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (thepodcastconsultant.com).

In this episode of BioTalk, Rich Bendis, President and CEO of BioHealth Innovation, Inc., welcomes Brad Sibbald, Vice President of Kelly Science and Clinical, and Sarah Porter, Vice President of Government Solutions at Kelly Services. Together, they explore the critical trends and strategies shaping the biotech and government workforce landscapes, with a particular focus on the BioHealth Capital Region (BHCR). Kelly Services, a global leader in workforce solutions, plays a pivotal role in connecting talent with opportunities across various industries, including science, engineering, technology, and telecommunications. Brad and Sarah provide valuable insights into how Kelly Services is adapting to the evolving needs of the biotech sector, from commercial enterprises to government agencies. The discussion covers various topics, including the current talent landscape in the BHCR, strategies for maintaining a robust pipeline, and the challenges of retaining top talent in an increasingly competitive market. Additionally, we learn about Kelly’s upcoming virtual job fair in September (https://bit.ly/3yMuiRm), an event for those looking to connect with opportunities in the biotech sector and the 2024 Kelly Global Re:work Report (https://bit.ly/3SSVhBl), offering listeners valuable insights into the future of work and workforce trends globally. About Brad Sibbald: Brad Sibbald is the Vice President of Kelly Science and Clinical, with over 15 years of experience in workforce solutions and consultative services. With a background in biochemistry and a passion for innovation, Brad is committed to driving forward-thinking solutions in the biotech industry. About Sarah Porter: Sarah Porter is the Vice President of Government Solutions at Kelly Services, leading the sales and operations for Kelly Government Solutions. With nearly 20 years of experience in the government industry, including a role at the NIH, Sarah has a deep understanding of the complexities of workforce solutions in the federal sector. Tune in to BioTalk for an insightful discussion with Brad Sibbald and Sarah Porter as they explore workforce trends, talent strategies, and the evolving landscape of biotech and government solutions in the BioHealth Capital Region and beyond. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

In this special episode of BioTalk, Rich Bendis, President and CEO of BioHealth Innovation, Inc., hosts a compelling discussion with three groundbreaking guests from South Africa: Johann de Bruyn, CEO of TASK, Ethan Hunter, Chief Operations Officer at Immobazyme, and Dr. Carla Eksteen, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Stellenbosch University. Together, they share their journey of connecting South Africa's biotech scene with the BioHealth Capital Region, showcasing how innovation transcends borders. Johann de Bruyn opens the conversation by introducing TASK Applied Science and its collaborative relationship with the U.S. He explains the genesis of Bio Centrifuge Africa, a business plan competition inspired by the BioHealth Capital Region's Crab Trap, designed to bridge the gap between South Africa’s emerging biotech sector and the established BHCR. Ethan Hunter, co-founder of Immobazyme, discusses his company’s pioneering work in precision fermentation and the growing impact it has across various industries. He reflects on the significance of winning Bio Centrifuge Africa and the exciting opportunity to compete in the 9th Annual Crab Trap in Maryland this September. Dr. Carla Eksteen shares her research journey in cancer immunotherapy and the vital role her work plays in advancing healthcare in South Africa. She talks about the opportunities provided by Bio Centrifuge Africa and her upcoming trip to Maryland as part of the competition winners. This episode offers a fascinating look at how South African innovators are making their mark on the global biotech stage and emphasizes the power of international partnerships in driving the industry forward. About Johann de Bruyn: Johann de Bruyn is the CEO of TASK Applied Science, committed to integrating Africa into the global clinical research landscape. With a diverse background in management, Johann is passionate about advancing healthcare and elevating Africa's role in global clinical research. About Ethan Hunter: Ethan Hunter is the Chief Operations Officer and co-founder of Immobazyme, a South African biotechnology company specializing in precision fermentation. With a strong foundation in plant biotechnology and molecular biology, Ethan is leading Immobazyme’s innovative efforts in the biotech industry. About Dr. Carla Eksteen: Dr. Carla Eksteen is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Stellenbosch University, focusing on cancer research and immunotherapy. With significant experience in tackling chemotherapy treatment resistance and tumor immunogenicity, Dr. Eksteen is dedicated to advancing precision oncology in South Africa. Tune in to BioTalk for an enlightening discussion with Johann de Bruyn, Ethan Hunter, and Dr. Carla Eksteen as they share their experiences and vision, linking South African biotech innovation with the BioHealth Capital Region. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

In this episode of BioTalk, Rich Bendis, President and CEO of BioHealth Innovation, Inc., welcomes guests from ARPA-H: Craig Gravitz, Director of the Project Accelerator Transition Innovation Office (PATIO), and Jenica Patterson, Ph.D., Portfolio Lead at ARPA-H. Together, they provide a comprehensive overview of ARPA-H's mission and innovative programs. Craig Gravitz and Jenica Patterson share their educational and career backgrounds, setting the stage for a discussion about ARPA-H and its various initiatives. They provide insights into how ARPA-H differentiates itself from other agencies like HHS and NIH, while also highlighting their collaborative efforts. Listeners will learn about the Project Accelerator Transition Innovation Office (PATIO) and its crucial role within ARPA-H. Jenica Patterson discusses her portfolio, including key areas and projects, and provides details on the new women's sprint for health initiative and its funding tracks. The conversation highlights examples of ARPA-H investments and milestones achieved, as well as the processes involved in determining future programs and investment priorities. Craig and Jenica also discuss the unique Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) program and how it supports ARPA-H projects. About Craig Gravitz: Craig Gravitz is designing and implementing the transition and commercial strategy for the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H). Prior to joining ARPA-H, Mr. Gravitz launched and ran a research and development program at the Defense Logistics Agency. He is a licensed attorney and has previously serviced as a contracting officer. About Jenica Patterson, Ph.D.: Jenica Patterson, Ph.D is a Portfolio Lead at ARPA-H within the Project Accelerator Transition Innovation Office (PATIO) and leads the Sprint for Women’s Health. Formerly Dr. Patterson served as the Director of the Technology Transfer and Transition (T3X) Division in the PATIO office, where she oversaw public-private partnerships for transition and the small business program for ARPA-H. Dr. Patterson received her Ph.D in Neuroscience at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) and served as a Science and Technical Advisor at the Defense Advance Research Project Agency, and a Program Director at NIH prior to joining ARPA-H. Tune in to BioTalk for an informative discussion with Craig Gravitz and Jenica Patterson as we explore the innovative work of ARPA-H and its impact on health research and development. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).