Incoming CPRIT CEO is an Experienced Leader & Colleague
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The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) approved Kristen Doyle, JD as the new CPRIT CEO to succeed Wayne Roberts who steps down after 12 years. Doyle is an industry expert, known collaborator, and ally to the North Texas ecosystem. A cancer survivor herself, Doyle has been with the agency since 2009 and has played a pivotal role in establishing the legal and regulatory foundations that ensure CPRIT maintains the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and fiduciary responsibility.
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(above): Kristen Doyle, JD
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2024 iC³ Tech Transfer Showcase Application Portal is now OPEN
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The Tech Transfer Showcase at the iC³ Life Science Summit provides a prime opportunity to present your most promising intellectual property to a select audience of industry leaders and investors, opening doors to potential collaborations and funding opportunities.
Submission Guidelines
- Application deadline August 12, 2024 at 11:59 pm
- Open to all university technology transfer offices in Texas
- Two submissions per university campus
- Applications will be reviewed by a panel of industry experts
- The top six applicants will advance to podium pitch at the annual iC3 Summit
- Winning applicants will be paired with an industry mentor to help craft and polish your presentation
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“The Tech Transfer Showcase is an excellent example of how BioNTX is serving Texas universities and creating a strong life science ecosystem across the State of Texas,” said Jennifer Souter, Senior Licensing Associate, Texas Tech Office of Research Commercialization.
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This year's 10th annual BioNTX iC³ Life Science Summit will provide a dynamic platform in a gorgeous setting for the bioscience community to share insightful discussion, cutting-edge research, and emerging technologies revolutionizing the future of healthcare and biomedicine. With a new, international focus; the 2024 iC³ Life Science Summit is proud to welcome the global life science community to North Texas.
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Shaping the Future: How Policymakers are Prioritizing
Biotechnology and Healthcare across the Lone Star State
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The recently published 2024 Texas Economic Development Guide has been designed to provide insights into the economic landscape of the state of Texas. It covers various aspects of economic development, including key industries, business incentives, workforce development programs, infrastructure, and resources for entrepreneurs and businesses.
From the robust energy sector to burgeoning technology hubs, each county and or city is meticulously outlined, providing a comprehensive understanding of the state's economic ecosystem.
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BIO Executive Delegation Visits with North Texas Founders
for Townhall & Ecosystem Roundtable
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The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), recently embarked on a national information gathering roadshow to engage with the country's innovators. An executive delegation visiting North Texas was center-stage for an ecosystem Town Hall where founders and leaders discussed business climates and current challenges faced by industry. Afterwards, attendees celebrated the ongoing collaboration that has made the region a veritable biopharma hub.
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(above): John Crowley, President of BIO and Sulagna Bhattacharya, CEO of Nanoscope Therapeutics addressing North Texas founders
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Form Bio Seminar at BioLabs Looks to Demystify
Bioinformatics Through Simplicity
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AI is making significant contributions to healthcare innovation and biotechnology research. Form Bio is revolutionizing the landscape with a user-friendly approach, emerging as a game-changer in the realm of bioinformatics and democratizing access to powerful analytical tools. Through user-centric design and robust functionality, Form Bio paves the way for a new era of streamlined and efficient bioinformatics analysis.
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Discoveries To Impact Conference Shines Light on Texas Tech University Student and Faculty Innovation
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As a beacon for interdisciplinary dialogue and the translation of research into real-world impact, Discoveries to Impact Month served as an indispensable platform for advancing knowledge and addressing contemporary challenges while showcasing the remarkable research and innovation of Northwest Texas' brightest minds. With more than $430,000 awarded throughout the month, the annual month-long conference fosters collaboration among researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, scholars and encourages interdisciplinary dialogue to promote the translation of research findings into real-world applications.
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Carter Foundation Endorsement Ignites the Next Chapter
of Texas A&M-Fort Worth Campus Development
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The Amon G. Carter Foundation committed millions of dollars to the new Texas A&M- Fort Worth campus development downtown. The 3.5- acre campus will boast a new eight-story, $150 million Law & Education Building that will serve students in biotechnology, engineering, health sciences, law, medical laboratory sciences, nursing and virtual production.
A second, Research and Innovation Building will house public and private research and development in engineering, aerospace, defense, energy, agriculture, transportation, telecommunications, health sciences, nutrition, emergency response and computer-based visualization technologies.
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The Quest to Save Endangered Species: A Colossal Undertaking
Requires Strong Collaboration
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Northern Quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus)
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Colossal Biosciences and the University of Melbourne have reached a significant milestone in their efforts to safeguard Australia's endangered northern quoll. Through genetic engineering, they've successfully introduced resistance to the cane toad toxin in marsupial cells, marking a pivotal advancement in conservation endeavors. The next phase involves deriving induced pluripotent stem cells from northern quolls, which will undergo CRISPR editing to transmit this genetic resistance to future generations, thereby aiding in the species' survival in their natural habitat.
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New Capital Paves Way for Island Pharmaceuticals
Dengue Candidate Phase 2 Clinical Trial
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Dr. Paul MacLeman, Executive Chairman of Island Pharmaceuticals, is optimistic about the company's long-term future. A recent awarded grant will bolster Island Pharma's phase two clinical trial for ISLA 101, targeting dengue fever. Dr. MacLeman highlights the trial's potential to expand ISLA 101's market reach, pointing to the company's investor engagement and proactive regulatory strategy as key drivers of success.
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Johnson & Johnson Hails Positive Results from Phase 2
Prostate Cancer Study
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Johnson & Johnson has revealed promising results from the Phase 2 ApaRP study, unveiling the effectiveness of ERLEADA® as adjuvant treatment alongside androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for patients with high-risk localized prostate cancer post-radical prostatectomy.
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JPS Research & Quality Symposium Aims to Raise Clinical Standards in North Texas and Around the World
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The JPS Health annual Research & Quality Symposium is a free event celebrating innovations in the fields of clinical healthcare research and quality, the event features networking, an abstract showcase, dinner, keynote speakers, prize giveaways, and the presentation of all Academic Excellence Awards.
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JPS Health Network Launches Maternal Health Improvement Program with United Way of Tarrant County
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United Way of Tarrant County, in collaboration with several health systems, has launched TeamBirth, a collective effort to improve maternal health and reduce birth-related deaths in the region. The initiative involves the introduction of planning boards at seven hospitals operated by Baylor Scott & White Health, JPS Health Network, and Texas Health Resources.
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Cost Plus Drugs Adds RxLink to Growing Partnerships
Bringing Affordable Medications Closer to Patients
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RxLink announces partnership with Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company, PBC (Cost Plus Drugs) to offer patients from leading health systems access to Cost Plus Drugs' safe medications at competitive prices. Utilizing RxLink MedMap™, which considers insurance, discount cards, and manufacturer offers, patients receive cost-effective medication recommendations via SMS and a user-friendly web portal. Since integrating Cost Plus Drugs into MedMap™, RxLink has facilitated over $162,000 in patient savings within three months.
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Ernst & Young Poll Reveals AI's Impact on Future of Work
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EY has published results from their tech pulse poll, drawing insights from 255 industry leaders. The report highlights AI's significant impact on the future of work. While 50% foresee a mix of layoffs and hiring with AI integration, 61% recognize its positive influence on workplace culture. Calls for stricter regulation, particularly concerning AI bias and privacy, are prominent. Nevertheless, 82% intend to increase AI investment, underscoring its pivotal role in workforce shaping.
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Innovation Takes Center Stage at UT Arlington's Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology Development
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Paul Corson, Executive Director of the UTA Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology Development
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Under the leadership of executive director Paul Corson, a vibrant culture of innovation is flourishing at the University of Texas at Arlington's Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology Development. Since assuming the position last fall, Corson's office has been developing or revamping around three dozen initiatives. Corson has experience in the field- prior to coming to Arlington, he led a center for innovation at the University of Utah and managed a federal office for innovation and entrepreneurship in Washington D.C.
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UTARI Researcher Awarded ASME Boeing Prize
for Machine Learning in Composite Material Simulations
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Dr. Xin Liu's groundbreaking paper, which earned him the prestigious ASME/Boeing Materials and Structures Award at the SSDM Conference, stands as a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing aerospace engineering. This notable achievement underscores the significance of pooling expertise from institutions such as UTA, AnalySwift LLC, Dassault Systèmes, and Purdue University, collectively driving innovation in the field. Such collaborations not only propel technological advancements but also serve as vital platforms for knowledge exchange, as highlighted by the SSDM conferences, fostering continuous growth in aerospace structures, structural dynamics, and materials research.
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UT Dallas Study Reveals Environmental Complexity
as Important Determinant of Brain Health
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Researchers at UT Dallas found that residing in geographically intricate areas might reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Their study, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, unveils a correlation between environmental complexity, brain activity, and the onset of the disease. Analyzing data from the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center, investigators observed that complex environments activate brain regions associated with spatial navigation, potentially slowing cognitive deterioration. The discovery could pave the way for non-pharmacological interventions in Alzheimer's treatment.
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UNT Health Science Center Recognizes Star Researchers
Advancing Cardiovascular Research
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The School of Biomedical Sciences at The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth has introduced the Robert J. Hardin Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Translational Cardiovascular Research, awarded to Selina Tucker and Lindsey Hudson. These awards recognize exceptional research contributions by PhD and MS students. Selina's research focuses on postpartum maternal health, while Lindsey's investigates therapies for severe blood loss. Both projects aim to improve cardiovascular health outcomes.
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Breaking Barriers in Bladder Cancer Detection: UTSW Study Reveals Enhanced Detection Across Racial Groups
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(left) bladder image using white light cystoscopy and (right) same image using blue light cystoscopy for bladder cancer detection
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In a recent joint study with UT Southwestern (UTSW), researchers explored the efficacy of merging white light cystoscopy (WLC) with blue light cystoscopy (BLC) for detecting bladder cancer among diverse racial groups. The study emphasizes the significance of diverse representation in medical research and underscores the potential of advanced diagnostic methods in enhancing outcomes for patients from diverse backgrounds.
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Etira Enters New Developmental Era After Successful
Clinical Trial Protocol Submission
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Etira announces the successful submission of regulatory documents to the Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) in Australia for their blockbuster oncology drug, ERX-315. The submission signifies a monumental step forward for the company, as Etira can now begin Phase 1 of their clinical trials. ERX-315 is designed to target specific pathways that are critical for cancer cell survival and proliferation. This targeted approach helps to spare healthy cells, potentially reducing side effects commonly associated with cancer therapies.
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NemaLife Launches Bioactive Discovery Platform
Powered by AI and Microfluidic Technology
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NemaLife, the AI-powered discovery company specializing in nutritional bioactive asset development and pre-clinical testing, has launched the NemaLife Discovery Flywheel and Efficacy Matrix. The company's patented AI-powered organism-on-chip platform that integrates C. elegans, microfluidics, and visual AI providing living proof of the health outcomes of nutritional substances. The Discovery Flywheel was developed to screen bioactives for several key health benefits concurrently, including stress resilience, cognitive health, gut health, metabolic health, muscle performance, and longevity.
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S&W Seed: Healthier Livestock Through Innovative Food Science
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S&W Seed has announced the placement of approximately 100 bags of Prussic Acid Free sorghum sudan grass to be planted this year around the United States. The company has genetically modified the seed to possess a trait to eliminate the risk of prussic acid poisoning in livestock during grazing periods when sorghum is under stress or exposed to freezing temperatures. S&W seed mentions the initiative is part of a greater plan to strengthen livestock amidst growing global market needs.
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Aakha Biologics Works to Make Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
a Distant Memory of the Past
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Aakha Biologics is a new kind of biotech company that values efficiency in the drug discovery process to more rapidly bring high quality therapeutics to patients. The company is developing biologics that boost the body’s immune surveillance mechanisms against tumors and harnessing multiple advanced antibody discovery platforms to empower its scientists to advance drug candidates from concept to IND-enabling studies.
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FUNDING & MENTORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
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Texas Tech Presidents' Innovative Startup Award
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Through these funding programs and opportunities, CPRIT grows the cancer-fighting ecosystem across Texas, providing life-extending results, and tangible economic benefits throughout the State.
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CPRIT Funding Programs Drive Cancer Research
Product Development & Prevention
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Through these funding programs and opportunities, CPRIT grows the cancer-fighting ecosystem across Texas, providing life-extending results, and tangible economic benefits throughout the State.
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SEED Awards
This award funds early-stage development of oncology therapeutics, devices, diagnostics, or tools, aiming to advance promising technologies toward commercial viability. Applicants should have identified a novel technology, conducted preliminary safety testing, demonstrated manufacturing feasibility, assessed the business opportunity, and established a company.
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Texas Diagnostic and Devices Company Awards
This award covers areas such as cancer detection, diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring, including companion diagnostics. Applicants should have developed commercial prototypes or assays validated for human samples. Funding supports preclinical proof of concept, product validation, manufacturing, and clinical studies to demonstrate safety and efficacy.
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Texas New Technologies
Company Awards
This award supports ongoing research and development of new cancer detection, diagnosis, prognosis, monitoring, or treatment technologies. Created by CPRIT, it funds projects that don't fit into other CPRIT Product Development Research RFAs. Proposals may include bioinformatics, artificial intelligence, radionuclide production, cell-based therapy manufacture, sample quality improvement processes, and therapeutic biomanufacturing. Companies may use CPRIT funds for preclinical proof of concept, product validation, design, manufacturing, development, and clinical studies with appropriate justification.
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Texas Therapeutics Company Awards
This award funds ongoing research and development of innovative products, services, and infrastructure with significant potential for patient care. Typically, companies at this stage have identified lead compounds, demonstrated efficacy in animal models, completed pilot toxicology studies, established scalable manufacturing processes, and identified prototype formulations. Funding supports preclinical proof of concept studies, manufacturing development, GLP safety studies for INDs, Phase 1 trials for safety and dose determination, and Phase 2 studies for safety and efficacy evaluation in initial patient populations.
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The Hill Prizes
Recognizing Life Science Innovators & High-Impact Research
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Generously funded by Lyda Hill Philanthropies, the Hill Prizes aim to accelerate groundbreaking research ideas with high potential for real-world impact. These prizes celebrate the achievements of top innovators and researchers in Texas, spanning six categories: Medicine, Public Health, Engineering, Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Technology. Each recipient of the prize will be awarded $500,000 in funding to further their work and drive innovation.
Applications due May 31, 2024
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PLMC 2024 Introduces Poster Presentations to Highlight Innovative Pharma Logistics Research
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PLMC 2024 is thrilled to unveil Poster Presentations as a new highlight of the event, providing a platform for researchers to showcase innovative studies in Pharma Logistics. Led by Prof. Roel Gevaers of the University of Antwerp, the addition aims to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among industry professionals and academics. Researchers are encouraged to submit abstracts covering topics such as pharmaceutical supply chain optimization, economic implications, innovative engineering solutions, regulatory challenges, sustainability considerations, technological advancements, risk management, patient-centric approaches, and data analytics in pharmaceutical distribution. This initiative promises to enrich dialogue and contribute to advancements in pharmaceutical logistics.
Abstracts due June 1, 2024
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National Science Foundation Expands Funding Opportunity
to Bolster Regional Innovation Engines
LOI due June 18, 2024
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The U.S. National Science Foundation announced a funding opportunity to invest in a new set of NSF Regional Innovation Engines (NSF Engines) across the U.S. In January, NSF announced the 10 inaugural NSF Engines, and the latest opportunity looks to build upon that investment, pending congressional appropriations.
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Chiesi Rare Disease Golden Ticket Competition
Applications due June 30, 2024
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The Chiesi Golden Ticket Competition awards startups and companies 2 (two) Golden Tickets to a US BioLabs site. Each Golden Ticket provides one year of fully paid individual bench space and membership at a fully equipped laboratory designed to accelerate early-stage startup working on research and development in the gene editing and/or relevant viral and non-viral delivery technologies, for treating rare hematology, immunology, ophthalmology, dermatology, inborn errors of metabolism or metabolic diseases.
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Upcoming Events & Opportunities
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WISH Network Series
Join Health Wildcatters to connect and support women in science and healthcare who have an interest in starting an entrepreneurial venture.
May 20, 2024 | Dallas, TX
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Demystifying Bioinformatics
An exploration of bioinformatics analysis with a user-friendly point-and-click interface, pre-installed reference data, and out-of-the-box workflows.
May 22, 2024 | Dallas, TX
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Health Supernova
Join Health Wildcatters to connect and support women in science and healthcare who have an interest in starting an entrepreneurial venture.
May 23, 2024 | Dallas, TX
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2024 USICOC AI Conference
Join the USICOC for an AI Conference featuring keynote speakers Chakri Gottemukkala, CEO, Co-Founder of o9 Solutions and George Baker Sr., Founder, Chairman of Parkhub.
May 23, 2024 | Addison, TX
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LP-184 in Pancreatic Cancer and Other Solid Tumors
Join Igor Astsaturov, MD and Kishor Bhatia, PhD to explore the science of pancreatic cancer and other solid tumors, why they can be difficult to diagnose and treat, and how these tumors are responding to LP-184.
May 29, 2024 | Dallas, TX
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UT Austin at BioLabs
Join UT Austin for a seminar and happy hour with acclaimed researcher, Dr. Jason McLellan, Professor of Molecular Biosciences at UT Austin. McLellan and his team collaborated to design a version of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein which Moderna used for the first COVID-19 vaccine.
May 29, 2024 | Dallas, TX
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Generative AI Luncheon
Join Richardson iQ and Tech Titans for an exclusive panel discussion on the Business Case for Generative AI.
May 30, 2024 | Richardson, TX
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AI Symposium in Healthcare
Join UT Southwestern Medical Center for their inaugural symposium on the latest AI initiatives and breakthroughs in the health care domain, forge new collaborations.
May 30, 2024 | Dallas, TX
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Thank You for Your Membership & Support
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