GROUNDBREAKING NEWS

JPS Health Network Celebrates Research & Quality

Advancements with Annual Symposium

(left photo) (from left to right) Dr. Sarah Palasciano of JPS Health, Dr. Russell Wagner, Retired and Dr. Tricia Elliot, of JPS Health

JPS Health Network recently held its annual Research and Quality Symposium, focused on building healthier communities through research, quality improvement, and patient experience. Participants presented research abstracts highlighting in-depth findings and innovative approaches aimed at advancing clinical outcomes and community health. The program also featured Academic Excellence Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to research and continuous improvement. The event served as a platform to showcase ongoing initiatives shaping the future of healthcare.

Alloy Therapeutics Expands to Japan with New Cell Therapy Base

Victor Stone, MD

Alloy Therapeutics has opened its first site in Japan at Shonan iPark in Kanagawa, establishing a new base for its cell therapy efforts in Asia. To lead the expansion, Alloy formed Alloy Therapeutics Co., Ltd. and named Yoshihide Ishii (Victor Stone) as CEO.

 

The move builds on its 2024 collaboration with Takeda to advance its iCAR-T platform—an off-the-shelf, iPSC-derived cell therapy developed with Kyoto University’s CiRA. iCAR-T has shown superior potency to autologous CAR-T in animal studies and is designed to reduce costs and expand access.

CPRIT Grants Fuel Cancer

Breakthroughs and Prevention Efforts in Texas

The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) approved 61 grants to support a broad range of cancer research, prevention, and early-stage treatment development efforts. The awards include recruitment grants for top scientists, evidence-based prevention programs, and funding for innovative companies working on new cancer therapies.

Texas Space Commission Awards Grants

to Advance Aerospace Innovation

The Texas Space Commission has awarded grants to support five innovative projects, advancing the growth and development of the aerospace industry across the state. These investments aim to strengthen Texas’s position as a leader in space exploration, aeronautics, and aviation by fostering cutting-edge research, technology, and economic integration.

Policy Awareness: The 89th Texas Legislative Session

BioNTX champions policies designed to improve the business environment for the life science and healthcare innovation industries. By encouraging local investment and supporting legislation and regulation focused on timely, science-based, and patient-centric outcomes, we inform legislative action and incentives that ensure the innovation economy in North Texas flourishes.

  • HB 5 | SB 5 | SJR 3 - Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas: SB 5 was signed by the Governor on May 24, 2025. SJR 3 was filed with the Secretary of State on May 15, 2025 and will be a constitutional amendment on the November 4, 2025 ballot for Texas voter consideration. SB 5 will go into effect December 1, 2025 if voters approve SJR3.
  • HB 5008 | SB 856 - Skills Development Fund: SB 856 was signed by the Governor on May 20, 2025 and will go into effect September 1, 2025.
  • HB 2765 - Rural Economic Development and Investment Program: HB 2765 passed both the House and Senate and was sent to the Governor on May 26. He has until June 22 to sign, veto or just let it become law without doing anything.
  • HB 16 | HJR 7 | SB 7 | SJR 66 - Texas Water Fund: SB 7 has passed both the House and Senate. HJR 7, which is the constitutional amendment, was amended in the Senate May 29, 2025. The amended version has gone back to the House for consideration. 

EVENT RECAP

BioNTX Hosts 2nd Annual Life Science Ecosystem Event

Showcasing Innovation in Tyler

BioNTX recently hosted its second annual Building a Life Science Entrepreneurial Ecosystem event in Tyler, TX, convening leaders from across the region’s life science sector. The event served as a platform to highlight the innovation, collaboration, and business growth taking place within Tyler’s expanding life science community. Attendees heard from local companies experiencing strong growth, with discussions focused on the factors contributing to their success and the advantages of operating in Tyler. We extend our sincere thanks to all the speakers and attendees who joined us.

BIONTX PRESENTS

Exploring Cutting-Edge Lab Solutions

at Pegasus Park with Avantor

June 4, 2025

Join BioNTX and Avantor at Pegasus Park for an exclusive opportunity to explore the latest advancements in research lab solutions tailored to your organization’s needs. This unique event will feature a dynamic showcase of vendors presenting cutting-edge tools and technologies that support every stage of research, development, and production.
 
Spanning industries from biotech to pharmaceuticals, these solutions are designed to drive greater efficiency, precision, and innovation. Don’t miss this chance to connect with industry leaders, discover what’s next in scientific advancement, and be part of the conversation shaping the future of research.

Building Tomorrow's Life Sciences Workforce:

Regional Collaborations for Success

June 11, 2025

North Texas is home to a thriving life sciences ecosystem, and the future looks even brighter with the growing talent pool. Join the BioNTX Facilities Committee as we explore how regional partnerships between manufacturers, higher education institutions, and K-12 STEM educators are shaping a workforce primed for success. This session will highlight the innovative efforts driving workforce development and positioning North Texas as a leader in life sciences.

BioNTX Showcases North Texas Innovation at

BIO International Convention

June 16 - 19, 2025

BioNTX is proud to join fellow Texas BIO organizations in highlighting the strength and diversity of the Texas life science ecosystem at the BioTexas Pavilion, Booth #2665.


This year, BioNTX will help anchor the DFW Corner of the Pavilion alongside the Dallas Regional Chamber, BioLabs at Pegasus Park, and representatives from cities across the metroplex. Presented by the Texas Healthcare and Bioscience Institute (THBI), this collaborative presence reflects more than a shared exhibit space—it represents a region-wide commitment to innovation, cross-sector partnership, and economic development.


Recent data from CBRE positions Dallas-Fort Worth among the Top 25 U.S. markets for R&D talent, MedTech, and life sciences manufacturing. In addition, the region has experienced a 29% growth in biomedical science graduates over the past five years, underscoring the strength of its talent pipeline and future workforce.


The BIO International Convention is the premier global event for biotech, bringing together leaders from over 30 countries for networking, dealmaking, and collaboration. BioNTX’s participation is part of a broader strategy to elevate the region’s profile, forge new partnerships, and champion North Texas as a thriving hub of life sciences innovation.


We invite you to visit Booth #2665 to learn more about BioNTX and connect with the innovators shaping the future of biotech in Texas. With over 9,200 life science companies, world-class research institutions, and the largest medical center on the planet, Texas continues to stand as a global powerhouse in biotechnology and healthcare.

Texas Block Party

 

Join BioTexas for a trip with Texas-inspired light bites, beer, and cocktails to network with industry leaders and communities that make Texas a leading life science destination.

June 17th | Boston, MA

Taco 'Bout Biotech

 

Join BioTexas for a casual breakfast in the Seaport District, just a few minutes from the Boston convention center.

June 18th | Boston, MA

Leveraging Australia’s Advantages to Accelerate

Early-Phase Clinical Trials

June 25, 2025

Join BioNTX as we welcome an Australian delegation to Dallas. Discover how Australia’s fast regulatory process, quality systems, and cost incentives make it a top choice for early-phase clinical trials. Learn how engaging with Australia can accelerate your clinical trials.

Thank you for your support

Chronic Disease Day Gathers Leaders 

and Patient Advocates

July 10, 2025

BioNTX and Good Days invite you to an exclusive luncheon symposium on Thursday, July 10 at Pegasus Park, bringing together senior leaders in biotech and healthcare, patient advocates, and key community stakeholders.

This gathering will spotlight urgent federal priorities in chronic illness care, unveil new regional partnerships, and explore bold opportunities to expand access to breakthrough treatments.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Turning Breakthroughs into Protected Assets

Harness IP, a leading intellectual property law firm and proud new member of BioNTX, has been a trusted partner to innovators for over 100 years. Rooted in Texas’s dynamic spirit of progress, we are passionate about fostering innovation and helping life science companies navigate the complexities of intellectual property to bring life-changing advancements to market.

 

At Harness IP, we go beyond legal counsel—we bridge the gap between law and technology as a partner with R&D teams early in the innovation process to identify, protect, and strategically position intellectual property from the ground up. Through tailored training sessions and hands-on consulting, we empower researchers and product developers to make informed decisions that maximize IP value and minimize risk.  Let’s work together to ensure your ideas are protected—and positioned to make a lasting impact.

 

Connect with us at harnessip@harnessip.com to learn how we can support your team in laying a strong foundation for IP success.

MEMBER NEWS

Colossal Foundation and Yellowstone Forever

Collaborate to Protect Wolves

The Colossal Foundation has partnered with Yellowstone Forever to support the Yellowstone Wolf Project using AI-powered acoustic monitoring. By deploying advanced camera and audio traps, the project will non-invasively track wolf behavior, communication, and pack dynamics—paving the way for smarter, tech-driven wildlife conservation.

Brand Institute Launches BI•Q™: AI-Powered Branding Solutions

Brand Institute, the global leader in pharmaceutical and healthcare brand name development, has unveiled BI•Q™, a new suite of AI-powered tools that enhance its world-class naming and identity services. Built on decades of expertise and now integrated across market research and creative teams, BI•Q accelerates speed, precision, and strategic insight—powering the future of branding in pharma, healthcare, and beyond.

Hamilton Company Launches Research Support Grant

to Help Labs Overcome Funding Cuts

Hamilton Company, a global leader in precision measurement and liquid handling, has introduced the Hamilton Research Support Grant program to assist academic labs affected by recent budget cuts. In response to NIH’s new 15% cap on indirect costs—which reduces available funding—this grant helps researchers access vital benchtop equipment needed to sustain innovative scientific work. Eligible labs facing NIH or other funding reductions can apply to acquire or replace essential instruments and keep critical research on track.

Private Offices For Lease Within Health Wildcatters Suite

Health Wildcatters is now pre-leasing private office space at Pegasus Park with move-ins starting in mid-June, offering an opportunity to grow your company in North Texas' leading innovation hub.

 

Amenities include conference room access, free parking, high-speed internet and office equipment, a common kitchen, 24/7 building access and security, an on-site cafeteria, mail and parcel delivery, and exclusive discounts to Health Wildcatters events.

LPA Design Studios Honored with

Top Awards for Design Excellence

LPA is a multi-discipline firm committed to collaboration, inclusion, and an integrated design process that connects building performance with design excellence. Recently, LPA Design Studios received three honors at the International Interior Design Association San Antonio City Center’s Imagine That 2025 Spotlight Awards, including the Best in Center award for overall design excellence. The firm also earned top recognition in the Education and Community & Culture categories. The IIDA awards celebrate outstanding contributions in innovative techniques, originality, form and function, and extraordinary design solutions.

McDermott Will & Emery Opens New Dallas Office

in Premier Downtown Tower

McDermott Will & Emery has relocated its Dallas office to the top floor of a premier downtown high-rise, now accommodating 65 lawyers and professional staff. Located in the dynamic Dallas-Fort Worth region, the office supports a wide range of practice areas including technology transactions, health and life sciences, intellectual property, litigation, tax, mergers & acquisitions, and corporate restructuring. The team represents clients across industries such as energy, healthcare, retail, and technology.

Morgan Stanley ISV & MassChallenge Named Top Financial Innovation Labs 2025

Morgan Stanley Inclusive & Sustainable Ventures (MSISV) and MassChallenge have been named some of the World’s Best Financial Innovation Labs for 2025 by Global Finance. As part of The Innovators 2025 awards, MSISV and MC were recognized for their roles in providing early-stage innovators with critical capital and resources to help develop and scale groundbreaking solutions. 

UTD Researchers Achieve Breakthrough in Spinal Cord Injury

Recovery Using Nerve Stimulation Therapy

(from left to right) Dr. Michael Kilgard, Dr. Jane Wigginton, Dr. Seth Hays and Dr. Robert Rennaker.

In a groundbreaking clinical study, researchers at the Texas Biomedical Device Center (TxBDC) at The University of Texas at Dallas have demonstrated significant recovery in individuals with incomplete spinal cord injuries using a novel therapy. The study, published in Nature, combined targeted vagus nerve stimulation with customized rehabilitation. This approach, known as closed-loop vagus nerve stimulation (CLV), led to unprecedented improvements in arm and hand function—results not seen with rehabilitation alone. The findings pave the way for a pivotal clinical trial, a crucial step toward potential FDA approval of the therapy to treat upper-limb impairment caused by spinal cord injury.

UTA Associate Professor Receives Fulbright Grant

to Explore Cultural Perceptions around AI in Healthcare

Grace Brannon, PhD

Grace Ellen Brannon, associate professor in UT Arlington’s Department of Communication, has received a prestigious 2025-26 Fulbright U.S. Scholar award. Starting January, she will join the University of Augsburg faculty to teach health, interpersonal, and patient-provider communication.

 

Dr. Brannon will expand her research on how artificial intelligence is used in health care communication across cultures. She aims to develop and test AI-based health provider messaging with both German and U.S. populations, seeking best practices for integrating AI into patient care.

UNTHSC to Launch Region’s First PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences

The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth is launching the Dallas-Fort Worth region’s first Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, with classes tentatively beginning in fall 2026. Approved by the UNT System Board of Regents, the program now awaits final approval from state and accrediting bodies.

 

Designed to meet growing workforce demand, the 60-credit-hour program will prepare professionals to lead in drug development, therapeutic innovation, and pharmaceutical outcomes research. It will offer concentrations in medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutics, pharmacology and toxicology, and applied outcomes research.

UT Southwestern Recognized Among

Nation’s Best in Cardiac Care

UT Southwestern Medical Center has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® as a Comprehensive Cardiac Center (CCC), becoming one of only 24 hospitals nationwide to receive the prestigious designation.

 

The CCC certification, developed in collaboration with the American Heart Association, recognizes excellence across the full continuum of cardiovascular care — from prevention and diagnosis to treatment and recovery. UTSW underwent a rigorous onsite evaluation, demonstrating top-tier performance in areas including heart failure, arrhythmia management, cardiac rehab, and surgical interventions.

FUNDING & MENTORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Grant Opportunity for Physician-Scientists:

Up to $2M Plus Expert Drug Development Support

Letter of Intent due June 4, 2025

Harrington Discovery Institute at University Hospitals is now accepting Letters of Intent for the 2026 Harrington Scholar-Innovator Award, which offers physician-scientists at accredited institutions in the U.S. and Canada a $100,000 guaranteed grant, expert drug and business development support, and the opportunity to compete for up to $300,000 in acceleration funds and up to $2 million in investment funding, while retaining intellectual property rights; Letters of Intent are due by June 4, 2025, with invited full applications due August 4, 2025.

Fueling Texas' Future in Cancer Research:

CPRIT Faculty Recruitment Award

Applications due June 20, 2025

The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) offers funding to help Texas institutions recruit top early-career researchers pursuing their first tenure-track faculty appointment. The award supports innovative cancer research and strengthens Texas’ leadership in prevention, treatment, and discovery—particularly in priority areas like cancer disparities, childhood cancers, hepatocellular cancer, and computational oncology.

Texas Rural Woman-Owned

Small Business Grant

Application closes June 20, 2025

The purpose of this grant is to foster greater economic development activity in Rural Texas by encouraging and enabling rural woman-owned, small businesses to undertake new and innovative projects. A total of ten grants for $10,000, totaling $100,000, will be given.

DoD Breast Cancer Clinical Research Extension

Application closes June 27, 2025

The fiscal year 2025 (FY25) Breast Cancer Research Program (BCRP) Clinical Research Extension Award aims to extend or expand the data collection, follow-up, and analysis of breast cancer clinical studies. The intent of this award mechanism is to increase the clinically relevant impact of breast cancer patient participation in clinical research by addressing the knowledge lost due to early trial termination, limited patient follow-up, or suboptimal sample and/or data collection and analysis. Applications must address at least one of the FY25 BCRP overarching challenges, unless adequate justification for exception is provided.

DoD Breast Cancer Era of Hope Scholar Award

Application closes June 27, 2025

Supports individuals who are early in their careers with significant potential to effect meaningful change in breast cancer. As the intent of the fiscal year 2025 (FY25) Breast Cancer Research Program (BCRP) Era of Hope Scholar Award is to recognize creative and innovative individuals rather than projects, the central features of the award are the demonstrated ability of the Principal Investigator (PI) to go beyond conventional thinking in their field and the innovative contributions that they can make toward ending breast cancer. PIs should be exceptionally talented scientists that are among “the best and the brightest” in their field(s), have demonstrated experience forming effective partnerships and collaborations, and exhibit strong potential for future leadership in breast cancer research. Applications must address one of the FY25 BCRP overarching challenges, unless adequate justification for exception is provided.

Advancing Early-Stage Innovation in Rare Cancers

Application closes July 1, 2025

The Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Rare Cancers Research Program (RCRP) Idea Development Award (IDA) supports innovative, early-stage research ideas with the potential to generate impactful data and open new avenues for investigation.

Funding Bold Ideas to Advance

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Research

Letter of Intent due July 25, 2025

The FY25 Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Research Program (DMDRP) Idea Development Award (IDA) is designed to spark bold, early-stage research with the potential to transform the landscape of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This award supports high-risk, high-reward ideas that are conceptually innovative and could lead to groundbreaking discoveries or new research directions that significantly improve outcomes for individuals living with DMD.

Fueling the Next Generation of Health Innovators

Application closes March 6, 2026

The One Health Incubator is a dynamic partnership between the Innovation Hub and the Health Sciences Center, created to support researchers and technology startups in the life sciences sector. This collaborative platform combines institutional expertise to offer an ecosystem of incubation, mentorship, and strategic connections—tailored specifically for life science innovators.

 

Startups and researchers benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, specialized resources, and guidance from industry experts. The incubator helps accelerate the development and commercialization of innovative healthcare solutions while fostering valuable relationships with potential partners, investors, and mentors.

NIH Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) for Undergraduate-Focused Institutions 

Program ends January 8, 2027

The purpose of this Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) for Undergraduate-Focused Institutions is to support small scale research grants at institutions that do not receive substantial funding from the NIH, with an emphasis on providing biomedical research experiences primarily for undergraduate students, and enhancing the research environment at applicant institutions.

iC³ SUMMIT NEWS & UPDATES

Save The Date: September 2025

The iC³ Life Science Summit is an event that brings together leaders and innovators from the life sciences and healthcare sectors to discuss challenges, discover new opportunities, and drive transformation.

 

As we look ahead to the 2025 iC³ Life Science & Healthcare Innovation Summit, we are celebrating “10 Years and Beyond” with a focus on the cutting-edge intersection of biology, technology, and artificial intelligence (AI). This convergence is powering breakthroughs in precision medicine, biomanufacturing, and other fields shaping the future of healthcare.

Dates

Tuesday, September 16: 7:00am - 7:00pm

Wednesday, September 17: 8:00am - 3:00pm

Location

Hilton Anatole

2201 N Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, TX 75207

Nominate a North Texas Life Sciences Leader

for the 2025 iC³ Dennis K. Stone Award

Nominations due on July 1, 2025

(from left to right) Kristin Lonergan, CIC of Champion Commercial Insurance and 2024 DKS recipient Jeff Keyser, PhD, RPh, JD of Renibus Therapeutics

BioNTX honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the North Texas biotechnology industry through the Dennis K. Stone Award. This recognition celebrates those who have advanced life science research and inspired others to do the same.

 

Nominees should meet the following criteria:

  • Industry Growth & Innovation: Contributed to the formation and growth of multiple North Texas-based life science businesses.

  • Generosity: Donated time, resources, or funds to support the North Texas life science community.
  • Mentorship & Inspiration: Inspired and mentored others, fostering the continued growth of the North Texas life science industry.
  • Regional Advocacy: Actively championed the region as a thriving hub for successful life science ventures.

Recognizing the Next Generation of

Life Science & Healthcare Innovators

Nominations due on July 1, 2025

BioNTX is proud to spotlight emerging leaders in life sciences and healthcare innovation through the Rising Stars program at the iC³ Summit. This program honors entrepreneurs, startups, and researchers making a significant impact.

 

Nominees should meet the following criteria:

  • Emerging entrepreneurs
  • Innovative startups & early-stage companies
  • Researchers driving groundbreaking advancements
  • Organizations with ≤ $100M in funding or sales

Applications Now Open for the 4th Annual Tech Transfer

Showcase at BioNTX's iC³ Life Science Summit

Application closes on July 28, 2025

Present your groundbreaking innovations at the 4th Annual Tech Transfer Showcase during BioNTX's iC³ Life Science Summit, an exclusive platform designed to connect academic institutions from Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Tennessee with top industry leaders and investors.

 

This event offers a unique opportunity to highlight your most promising intellectual property, explore potential collaborations, and secure funding, all while advancing the future of life sciences and technology.

INDUSTRY EVENTS

Upcoming Events & Opportunities

Scientific Research Innovation

Showcase and Supplier Expo 

 

Join BioNTX and Avantor to explore the latest research lab solutions that support your organization's needs. The event will feature a variety of vendors showcasing innovative tools and technologies across every stage of research, development, and production. 

 

June 4th | Dallas, TX

American Cancer Society’s 2025 Tyler Cattle Baron’s Ball

 

Join the American Cancer Society for a toe-tapping, knee-slapping good time as you give back to the community. This one-of-a-kind evening features great food and drink, dancing, a spectacular auction, and much more. With your support, the American Cancer Society saves lives by helping people stay well and get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back against cancer.

 

June 7th-8th | Tyler, TX

BIO BREAK: Fort Worth's Life Sciences Happy Hour

 

Join BioNTX, RSM, Haynes Boone and UTA for a special happy hour dedicated to the life science community—where ideas flourish, partnerships grow, and collaboration thrives. Reconnect with colleagues, spark new relationships, and toast to the shared passion that drives us forward, all in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

 

June 10th | Fort Worth, TX

Powering Potential: Shaping North Texas’ Life Science Workforce for the Future

 

Join the BioNTX Facilities Committee as we explore the teaching and training capabilities in our region that creates one of the most powerful workforces in the country. The program will include insights from manufacturers, higher education institutions, and K-12 STEM educators.

 

June 11th | Plano, TX

2025 Health Supernova

 

Join Capital Factory for Health Supernova! Get ready for the premier event that is set to ignite the health and biotech community in Texas—and beyond. Be a part of the excitement and register today! 

June 12th | Austin, TX

Life Science Oklahoma BIO Convention

Networking Breakfast

 

Join Life Science Oklahoma for a panel discussion highlighting EDA Grant projects and the growth of Bio Manufacturing in Oklahoma. 

June 16th | Boston, MA

Thank you for your Membership & Support!

"In nature, nothing exists alone."

- Rachel Carlson

June 2, 2025

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