Building the Future of Biotech Research in North Texas
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(from left to right) Lili Clark, Matt Crommett, and Nicole Small
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North Texas, and particularly Pegasus Park, has become a hotspot for groundbreaking biotech innovation and collaboration. Lyda Hill Philanthropies and LH Capital have been key drivers in shaping the area into a thriving ecosystem for health solutions that have the potential to make a global impact.
In the latest episode of Southwestern Medical Foundation’s “Learning From Leaders” podcast, hosted by Lili Clark, Nicole Small, CEO of Lyda Hill Philanthropies, and Matt Crommett, Managing Director, share insights on how Pegasus Park is fostering biotech advancement and social good. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the future of health and science innovation in North Texas, available on Apple, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.
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The 2025 Employer Survey is now live! If your company is hiring or will be in the near future, please take a few moments to complete this survey—your input will directly influence workforce initiatives designed to support your hiring needs. Survey closes Wednesday, February 14th .
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UT Southwestern Researcher Leads Effort to
Make Whole Eye Transplants a Reality
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UT Southwestern researcher Kevin Park is leading efforts to make whole eye transplants a reality through a groundbreaking initiative supported by ARPA-H, a federal agency with a regional hub at Pegasus Park in Dallas. As a professor of ophthalmology and neuroscience, Park has long pursued what he describes as the "holy grail" of regenerative vision science—the ability to restore sight through a fully functional eye transplant.
The initiative brings together 40 top researchers from across the country to advance this work. While the first medical full eye transplant was performed last year at NYU, restoring blood flow but not vision, scientists believe they are getting closer to making restored sight possible.
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Breaking Down PDUFA: Insights & Strategies
at BioNTX’s Legal Forum
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Dive into the complexities of the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) at BioNTX’s inaugural Legal Forum on Wednesday, February 26, hosted by Sheppard Mullin.
This is your chance to get expert insights on everything from the basics to predictions for PDUFA VIII negotiations—plus actionable tips on how to effectively navigate these critical discussions in the life sciences industry.
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BIO BREAK - Fort Worth Valentine's Edition:
Toasting to Love, Life Sciences, and Innovation on February 11th
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This Valentine’s season, join BioNTX, RSM, and Haynes Boone in Fort Worth as we celebrate our shared passion for innovation and the connections that drive breakthroughs in the life sciences.
Raise a glass to the spirit of collaboration at a special happy hour designed for the life science community. Whether you’re rekindling old connections or sparking new ones, this event offers the perfect setting to share ideas, foster partnerships, and celebrate the love we all have for discovery and progress.
Let’s toast to the relationships that make innovation thrive and the collective passion that propels us forward. See you there!
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Remembering Ann Tanabe and Her Impact
on the Life Science Industry
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The passing of Ann Tanabe, CEO of BioHouston, is a profound loss for the life sciences community. Her exceptional leadership, dedication, and passion for advancing biotechnology have left an indelible mark on the industry and countless individuals.
Ann was a true catalyst for innovation, working tirelessly to bring people together and drive the industry forward. Her vision, kindness, and unwavering support for others will be deeply missed by all who knew her. While her absence is felt deeply, her legacy of collaboration, progress, and empowerment will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to work alongside her.
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BioNTX Celebrating International Women's Day
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Women are making transformative strides in the life sciences industry, shaping the future through groundbreaking leadership, innovation, and practices. These exceptional women are redefining the landscape of biotech, medical research, and health care, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
In celebration of International Women’s Day, BioNTX invites you to join us on March 7th at Pegasus Park for the Women Driving Innovation program. This event will honor the trailblazing women who are at the forefront of North Texas’ life sciences community.
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UT Dallas Researchers Develop Handheld Sensor
to Detect Fentanyl in Urine
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(from left to right) Dr. Sriram Muthukumar, Dr. Anirban Paul, Dr. Shalini Prasad and Dr. Ivneet Banga
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Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas, led by Dr. Shalini Prasad, professor and department head of bioengineering, have developed a groundbreaking handheld electrochemical sensor that detects fentanyl in urine with 98% accuracy in seconds. This portable device eliminates the need for costly and time-consuming lab analysis. Published in the American Chemical Society Applied Materials & Interfaces on January 10, the technology is a precursor to future tests for detecting fentanyl in saliva and other substances.
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Rare Disease Day: Amplifying Awareness, Inspiring Change
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Rare Disease Day is an internationally recognized observance dedicated to raising awareness about rare diseases and the unique challenges faced by individuals and families affected by them. In the U.S., one in every 10 people lives with a rare disease, and globally, more than 300 million individuals are impacted.
Too often, these individuals and their families face isolation and uncertainty in their medical journeys. Rare Disease Day, observed on the last day of February—this year on February 28th—serves as a powerful global initiative to raise awareness, foster understanding, and generate support for those navigating rare diseases.
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ParaNano: Pioneering a New Era in Chronic Wound Care
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Chronic wounds pose a significant healthcare challenge, often leading to severe infections and costly hospitalizations. ParaNano is transforming wound care with the Bio-Z™ Smart Bandage, an innovative nanofiber membrane that visually changes color to detect heavy colonization and early infection before symptoms appear, with no wires, batteries, or connectivity needed. By integrating flexible nanofiber technology, Bio-Z™ enables real-time, non-invasive continuous monitoring, to have a positive impact on those costly negative outcomes.
With a $500K grant secured to complete FDA self-registration and expand manufacturing infrastructure, ParaNano is rapidly advancing toward commercialization. As we move towards market entry, we are actively seeking strategic partnerships with healthcare providers, research institutions, and industry leaders to maximize Bio-Z™’s impact. Join us in revolutionizing chronic wound care.
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Ypsilon Therapeutics Secures CPRIT Grant for
Cancer Research with Alloy’s Support
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Ypsilon Therapeutics, a portfolio company of 82VS, Alloy’s venture studio, has secured seed funding from CPRIT. The grant will accelerate its lead therapeutic program, a next-generation T-cell receptor mimic (TCRm) antibody, aimed at treating solid tumors like triple-negative breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and gastric cancer. It will also support Ypsilon’s move to Texas.
Alloy is helping Ypsilon by providing access to its Keyway™ TCR Discovery platform, which enables the development of highly specific TCRm-based therapies. This partnership strengthens Ypsilon’s ability to advance its cancer research and contribute to Texas’ growing biomedical community.
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Lantern Pharma Accelerates ADC Development
with AI-Driven RADR® Platform
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Lantern Pharma Inc., an AI-driven company focused on revolutionizing cancer drug discovery, has announced advancements in using its RADR® AI platform to enhance the development of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). With the global ADC market set to reach $30.4 billion by 2028, Lantern is accelerating the identification and optimization of ADC candidates, including collaborations with the MAGICBULLET::Reloaded Initiative at the University of Bielefeld.
Through its AI-powered platform, Lantern has identified 82 promising ADC targets and validated 729 potential payload molecules, significantly advancing the precision and efficiency of ADC development. This innovation could reduce ADC development timelines by 30-50% and lower costs by up to 60%, enabling more effective and targeted treatments for cancer.
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WuXi AppTec Sells U.S. Medical Device Testing Operations
to NAMSA to Drive MedTech Innovation
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WuXi AppTec, a global provider of R&D and manufacturing services to the pharmaceutical and life sciences industries, has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its U.S. medical device testing operations to NAMSA, a world-leading MedTech testing, clinical, and regulatory consulting firm. This acquisition includes WuXi AppTec’s facilities in Minnesota and Georgia and is designed to accelerate innovation in the MedTech industry by combining the strengths of both companies.
The acquisition will expand NAMSA’s clinical research and testing portfolio, further enhancing its capabilities to help MedTech innovators navigate stringent regulatory requirements, mitigate risks, and reduce time to market.
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Key Design Considerations for Renovating
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Facilities with BE&K
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Renovating a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility involves careful planning to meet regulatory standards, enhance efficiency, and prioritize safety. When repurposing non-manufacturing areas into production spaces, the process becomes even more complex. BE&K Building Group’s expertise ensures that renovations not only comply with the latest regulations but also improve productivity and foster innovation. This article highlights key design elements essential for a successful renovation with BE&K’s guidance.
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EY and Microsoft Launch AI Skills Passport to
Bridge the Global AI Skills Gap
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EY and Microsoft have launched the AI Skills Passport (AISP), a free online program designed to equip individuals aged 16+ with essential AI knowledge and skills. The 10-hour self-paced course covers AI fundamentals, ethical considerations, and real-world applications across industries, offering a certificate upon completion.
With AI-related job demand soaring 2,000%, AISP aims to upskill one million people and address the gap in AI education—only 15% of Gen Z feel adequately prepared for AI in school or work. The program is available in multiple countries, with plans for expansion and translation into five languages.
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G-CON Expands Cleanroom Services for Biopharma Companies
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G-CON, a global leader in sustainable cleanroom systems, has expanded its services to include Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing (TAB), as well as recertification for Class 5 or better cleanrooms and CNC areas. This expansion supports biopharma companies by ensuring cleanroom functionality, reducing production interruptions, and maintaining regulatory compliance throughout the asset's life.
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Hamilton Company and Kaon Interactive Partner to
Transform Digital Engagement in Life Sciences
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Hamilton Company has partnered with Kaon Interactive to revolutionize product demonstrations using Kaon Demo360+. This immersive digital platform enables real-time, remote access to product experiences, eliminating the need for physical equipment, shipping, or travel. By expanding global reach, reducing costs, and streamlining sales, Hamilton anticipates a one-year payback period. This initiative will drive higher-quality leads and accelerate decision-making. Future plans include AI-powered personalization and multilingual capabilities, further enhancing the customer experience worldwide.
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Haynes Boone Recognized as a Top "Gold-tier" Firm
in WTR 1000 for 16th Consecutive Year
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Haynes Boone has once again earned a Gold-tier ranking in the 2025 edition of World Trademark Review's WTR 1000, marking its 16th consecutive year among the nation’s top firms. The firm is also recognized as one of only two Gold-tier firms in Texas and ranks among the top 21 firms in New York. With a team of over 40 experienced attorneys nationwide, Haynes Boone is praised for delivering trusted expertise in trademark law, ensuring compliance and strategic success for its clients. The firm’s reputation for litigation excellence continues to set it apart in a dynamic legal landscape.
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Lockton Named One of Glassdoor's Best Places to Work 2025
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Lockton Companies, a global leader in insurance, risk management, and employee benefits, ranks No. 37 on Glassdoor’s Best Places to Work 2025 list, based on employee feedback and reviews submitted between October 2023 and October 2024. Known for its strong company culture and commitment to employee well-being, Lockton continues to be a leader in the insurance and risk management industry.
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McCownGordon’s Expertise in Healthcare Facility Construction
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Healthcare facility construction requires precision and safety, with patient care as the top priority. Whether building new facilities or renovating existing hospitals, McCownGordon understands the critical nature of these environments. Their comprehensive guidelines and procedures manual demonstrates a deep understanding of healthcare-specific challenges, ensuring that construction activities do not disrupt patient care. With McCownGordon, facility directors can trust in a seamless, expert-driven process that supports high standards of care.
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Morgan Lewis Honored by Law360 for IP Excellence
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Morgan Lewis’s Intellectual Property practice was recognized by Law360 as part of its 2024 Practice Groups of the Year awards. The firm secured multiple high-profile victories in copyright, patent, and trade secret litigation across various industries, including technology, retail, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. Looking ahead to 2025, the team anticipates significant case developments, particularly in means-plus-function claims, antibody-related patents, and the evolving role of AI in litigation and patent prosecution. They also expect a rise in trade secret disputes and are preparing for high-stakes patent infringement trials.
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RSM Forms Audit Quality Board to Strengthen Audit Services
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RSM US LLP has established an Audit Quality Board to reinforce its commitment to high-quality audit services. The board, composed of three independent members, will advise on quality control, risk management, and best practices within the firm’s assurance practice. Their insights will enhance RSM’s approach to audit quality, culture, governance, and operations, ensuring continuous improvement in service delivery.
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Turner Construction Celebrates 100 Years of Building
Healthcare for a Healthier Future
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Turner Construction Company celebrates a century of building healthcare facilities that support lifesaving care and patient well-being. As a leading healthcare builder in North America, Turner delivers projects ranging from community hospitals to innovative research centers.
Through the Turner Construction Company Foundation, Turner continues to support healthcare organizations working to address critical health challenges and improve access to care. This milestone highlights Turner’s ongoing commitment to advancing healthcare services and innovation for the future.
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Weaver Launches Dedicated Healthcare Advisory Practice
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Weaver, a national accounting and advisory firm, is launching a dedicated healthcare advisory practice in January 2025. The practice will offer services in financial reporting, valuation, internal audit, and compliance, with plans to expand into industry-specific consulting, including revenue cycle assessments, financial modeling, and interim CFO services. Additionally, new innovative technology platforms will be introduced, and the practice will seek to hire clinicians to provide deeper insights into coding, clinical documentation, and operational efficiencies.
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UT Dallas Launches AI & Analytics Lab to
Drive Innovation in Complex Data Analysis
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The University of Texas at Dallas has unveiled its new Artificial Intelligence & Analytics Laboratory, a space designed to foster innovation and opportunity. Credit Union of Texas (CUTX) recently contributed to the Naveen Jindal School of Management (JSOM) for the purchase of 10 advanced workstations equipped with graphics processing units (GPUs). These powerful systems, originally designed for digital-image processing, are now essential for complex analytics in AI applications.
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UTA Professor to Receive 2025 Pittcon Analytical Chemistry Award
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Daniel Armstrong, PhD, MS
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Daniel Armstrong, Robert A. Welch Distinguished Professor in Chemistry at UT Arlington, will receive the 2025 Pittcon Analytical Chemistry Award for his pioneering work in molecular structure analysis and chemical separations. Recognized for his 35 years of research, Armstrong’s recent focus includes chiral biomarkers and cyclodextrins for drug delivery.
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HSC Regional Simulation Center Enhances Student Training
with Realistic Healthcare Scenarios
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The Regional Simulation Center at the University of North Texas Health Science Center offers students immersive, hands-on training in a safe environment. Equipped with advanced technology and realistic manikins, the center helps students navigate both clinical skills and the emotional aspects of patient care.
Through simulations and interactions with standardized patients, students gain valuable experience in making critical decisions and communicating effectively, all while learning to manage the emotional weight of healthcare scenarios.
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UT Southwestern Faculty Lead Effort in
US Early Detection Fellowship Program for Alzheimer’s
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The Davos Alzheimer’s Collaborative (DAC) has launched the U.S. Early Detection Fellowship Program, aiming to develop and refine early detection and screening protocols for Alzheimer’s disease within primary care settings. Led by UT Southwestern’s Dr. Ihab Hajjar and Dr. Ramona Rhodes, the initiative seeks to empower primary care providers to identify early signs of cognitive impairment, such as mild cognitive impairment, which can often go unnoticed. This effort, continuing through the first quarter of 2026, aims to improve timely detection and care, potentially preventing further cognitive decline and enhancing patient eligibility for available therapies.
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Unlock Exclusive BioNTX Member Discounts
on Biotech Primer’s On-Demand Courses
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BioNTX is excited to offer members exclusive discounts on Biotech Primer’s on-demand courses, covering essential topics in biopharmaceutical and medical device industries—from foundational science to commercialization and global regulatory processes.
Taught by industry veterans, these courses deliver practical insights and knowledge you can immediately apply. Select courses also offer NASBA-compliant CPE credits for added professional development. Learn at your own pace, on your own schedule, from anywhere.
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FUNDING & MENTORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
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2025 US Healthcare Early Stage Program
Application Due February 18, 2025
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Applications for the 2025 MassChallenge U.S. Early Stage Healthcare Program are now open!
MassChallenge empowers healthcare innovators to build transformational businesses by providing unparalleled access to mentorship, resources, and industry connections. Join a global network of entrepreneurs working to solve the most pressing challenges in healthcare.
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Biofest Invest Pitch Competition
Application Due February 24, 2025
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As an economic centerpiece for Healthcare and Bioscience in San Antonio, BioMedSA is dedicated to helping today’s startup community take the next step in turning their innovative ideas into a reality. This competition is aimed at promoting the commercialization of emerging technology around the state of Texas. This competition recognizes Texas-based companies with high-growth potential and gives them the opportunity to connect with investors that can help effectively execute their ideas and advance product development.
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Texas A&M New Ventures Competition
Application Due February 28, 2025
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A big idea can change everything, but the journey from concept to marketplace can be challenging. Without the necessary resources to gain traction even the most promising idea can wither on the vine.
Texas A&M Innovation and The Texas A&M University System, along with a growing number of sponsors are working with the entrepreneurial ecosystem throughout the state to ensure today’s innovative ideas become a reality through the Texas A&M New Ventures Competition (TNVC). Aimed at promoting the commercialization of emerging technology, the competition recognizes companies with high-growth potential and provides seed funding to help them effectively execute their ideas and advance product development.
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NIH Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) for Undergraduate-Focused Institutions
Program ends May 8, 2027
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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.
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Upcoming Events & Opportunities
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BIO BREAK: Fort Worth's Life Sciences Happy Hour
Join BioNTX, RSM and Haynes Boone this Valentine’s Day to celebrate the love for innovation and the connections that make breakthroughs possible. Join us for a special happy hour dedicated to the life science community—where ideas flourish, partnerships grow, and collaboration thrives.
February 11th | Fort Worth, TX
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Litigating in the Unified Patent Court: Strategies for Success
Join McDermott, Will, & Emery for their webinar to hear first-hand accounts of handling matters in the UPC during this engaging, conversation-style webinar that will dive into the intricacies of UPC litigation and help develop your strategy.
February 11th | Virtual
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The DEC Network 10th Annual State of Entrepreneurship
Join The DEC for their 10th Annual State of Entrepreneurship presented by Bank of America. This event has become a tradition for celebrating the people, places, and passions that keep the North Texas startup ecosystem thriving. The entire community comes out to cheer on the launches, fundings, exits, and overall wins of the entrepreneurial community from the past year.
February 13th | Fort Worth, TX
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2025 YTexas Launch: Business & Education in Texas
Join YTexas for their 2025 launch event titled: Business & Education in Texas! The theme for the event is “Education, Legislation, Innovation,” each addressing the critical question: Why is Texas positioned to lead the nation in business expansion and relocations in 2025?
February 19th | Dallas, TX
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Dallas Aging and Cognition Conference
Join UT Dallas as they share the latest scientific findings on aging and cognition through a series of talks and poster presentations. Since the first conference in 2010, the DACC has continued to play a critical role in maintaining the CVL’s international leadership in the field of cognitive neuroscience of aging.
February 20th - 22nd | Dallas, TX
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Dallas Cup of Capital Co-hosted with BioLabs
Join Capital Factory for their signature coffee networking event with BioLabs Pegasus Park! Meet entrepreneurs and investors who are new to Dallas or diving into the tech scene. It's the perfect opportunity to grow your network over great coffee!
February 21st | Dallas, TX
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Invest: DFW 2025 Launch Conference
Join Capital Analytics Associates to connect and hear from leaders in Dallas-Forth Worth who will be providing their insights into the key issues impacting the region at our highly anticipated conference and networking event. This 300-person event, hosted at Esports Stadium, includes ample networking opportunities, food and drink, and insightful panel discussions.
February 27th | Arlington, TX
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Pegasus Park Speaker Series
Join us at Pegasus Park to learn about Dr. David Fajgenbaum's groundbreaking work to find new uses for existing medicines, using cutting-edge AI to uncover treatments for diseases that currently lack effective options.
February 27th | Dallas, TX
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2025 Career Expo
Join BioNTX at our Career Expo to connect with industry professionals and recruiters who can help advance your career in the life sciences and healthcare sectors. This event offers students and job seekers valuable networking opportunities, career guidance, and resources to help refine your professional skills.
March 27th | Dallas, TX
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2025 HR Forum
Join BioNTX for a series of targeted sessions designed to help biotech employers navigate the complexities of workforce management. From hiring decisions and compensation planning to compliance with employment laws, this event offers practical insights and actionable strategies to help you attract top talent, foster employee development, and scale your team effectively.
March 27th | Dallas, TX
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Happy Valentine's Day from BioNTX
As we celebrate love, we also recognize our shared passion for science and innovation. From groundbreaking discoveries to transformative advancements, our dedication to pushing biotechnology forward continues to grow. Wishing you a day filled with inspiration, collaboration, and new possibilities!
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