On a creative whim, an intern at Pennsylvania Bio created the character Helixman, “investigator of all things interesting and protector of all things innovative” who has guided readers through 14 trips to different parts of the state, uncovering their bioscience gems.
“It’s really clever, just one of those things to have a little fun, especially in today’s environment where everyone is a little dour,” says Mickey Flynn, president of the statewide trade association.
That’s a theme that Flynn’s organization has helped bring to Biotech 2009, the world’s annual premiere biosciences conference, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on Nov. 16-17. More specifically, Flynn and company are trying to inject life into an industry that, like most others, is still feeling the grim effects of the global recession.
Biotech 2009 promises to do just that, as well as give potential collaborators or partners forums to present, share and drill down ideas. Thirty-seven companies will make 15-minute presentations on their latest and greatest discoveries, while there will be 18 “partnering suites,” for company reps to meet and share ideas. Some new additions to the conference program includes FDA updates as well as social media.
“Everybody recognizes how important it is, especially when times are tough, to get together and share ideas,” says Flynn. “We tried to adjust our programs to what’s happening with the current state of affairs.”
The conference also features a record-size Innovation Corridor, in which students, faculty, investigators and entrepreneurs compete in a judged poster presentation.
Flynn expects about 800 attendees, double the number that participated only five years ago.
Source: Mickey Flynn, Pennsylvania Bio
Writer: Joe Petrucci