Connecting Industry with Educators
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(Renee Parker, Dallas College, Panthera BioSolutions, BioNTX,, and Crown Scientific
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Tarrant County Workforce Solutions hosted an event to connect Tarrant County administrators, teachers, and counselors with leaders in the Biotech and Logistics industry. Both panels discussed the current landscape in their industry and the best skills to equip their students with for their future careers.
Representatives from the BHIANT and the founder of Crown Scientific, Dr. Ramon Coronado held a Q&A session for the educators and noted that soft skills were the best tools for the future scientists to learn.
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Transforming Biotech: Insights from Panthera BioSolutions
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In this episode, Panthera BioSolutions co-founders Jason Mastoris and Hardik Patel shared their vision for revolutionizing the biotech landscape in North Texas. They discussed how Panthera BioSolutions is at the forefront of innovation.
Mastoris and Patel emphasized the importance of collaboration with local colleges, highlighting their efforts to train the next generation of biotech professionals. They delved into the unique challenges and opportunities present in the booming life sciences sector, providing valuable insights into how Panthera is positioning itself to navigate these dynamics effectively.
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Captivating Investors: Crafting Your Pitch Beyond Words
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In the podcast episode "Your Pitch Beyond Words: 10 Key Messages Investors Need to Hear," Dr. Hubert Zajicek, MBA, discussed the importance of non-verbal communication in pitching to investors.
He highlighted that successful presentations rely on emotional resonance and storytelling alongside verbal content. Dr. Zajicek outlined ten essential messages entrepreneurs needed to convey to effectively showcase their startup's potential.
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2024 ACS CAN North Texas Cancer
Political Awareness Breakfast
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Explore Waco's Life Science Growth with BioNTX at BRIC
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Alpha Cognition Receives Notice of Allowance
for Benzgalantamine Patent
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Alpha Cognition Inc., a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapeutics for neurodegenerative disorders, has announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has issued a Notice of Allowance for patent application No. 18/434,155, titled “Coated Tablets for pH-Dependent Release of Benzgalantamine.”
This upcoming patent will provide protection for the current formulation of ZUNVEYL, the company's FDA-approved treatment for mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease, extending its patent life in the U.S. through 2044.
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Celanese Announces New Sustainable Thermoplastics
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Celanese Corporation has introduced three new sustainable engineering thermoplastics at the Fakuma International Trade Fair for Plastics Processing in Germany. These materials maintain performance comparable to traditional plastics while promoting a circular economy. The sustainable solutions draw from three sources: carbon capture and utilization, recycled content, and ISCC+ certified bio-based feedstocks.
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Colossal Biosciences Reports Major Advances
in Thylacine Revival Project
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Thylacine also known as the Tasmanian Tiger
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Colossal Biosciences, in partnership with the University of Melbourne, aims to revive the thylacine. They recently reported significant progress, including a thylacine genome over 99.9% accurate. Parwinder Kaur of DNA Australia praised the advancements, noting they push scientific boundaries.
The team has developed a method to induce ovulation in the dunnart, the proposed surrogate for thylacines, and has successfully cultivated embryos in an artificial uterus. Dr. Pask stated that these achievements will be backed by peer-reviewed studies expected early next year, with a commitment to keeping the public informed and providing accessible data for review.
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Cx Precision Medicine Selected for
StartUp Health’s Alzheimer’s Moonshot Program
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Cx Precision Medicine, Inc. (CxPM), which develops AI-powered blood tests for Alzheimer’s, has joined StartUp Health’s Alzheimer’s Moonshot Program, aimed at advancing the prevention and management of Alzheimer’s disease.
Launched in January 2024, the program partners with the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation’s Diagnostics Accelerator and Gates Ventures to create a collaborative network. With over 55 million people living with Alzheimer’s globally, CxPM’s technology, developed in Dr. Sid O’Bryant’s lab at The University of North Texas Health Science Center, focuses on early detection using blood-based biomarkers.
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Island Pharmaceuticals Share Value Projected to Increase
Amid Phase II Study of ISLA-101 for Dengue Fever
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Island Pharmaceuticals has initiated a Phase II study of ISLA-101 for Dengue fever, with results expected before Christmas 2024. ISLA-101, repurposed from cancer treatment, blocks a viral protein from entering host cell nuclei. Dengue fever, affecting 400 million people annually, has no specific treatments.
After a $3.5 million placement in October 2024, Island Pharmaceuticals is valued at A$83 million in a base case and A$109 million in an optimistic scenario, translating to A$0.31 and A$0.41 per share.
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Johnson & Johnson's Nipocalimab Shows Promise
for Adolescents with Myasthenia Gravis
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Johnson & Johnson announced positive results from the Phase 2/3 Vibrance-MG study of nipocalimab in adolescents (ages 12-17) with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG). Treatment led to a 70% reduction in immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels over 24 weeks and improved disease scores. Nipocalimab was well-tolerated with no serious adverse events. Johnson & Johnson has submitted applications to the FDA and EMA for its approval in treating gMG.
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Lantern Pharma’s LP-184 Secures Fast Track Status
from FDA for Glioblastoma
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Lantern Pharma Inc. announced that the FDA has granted Fast Track Designation for its investigational drug candidate, LP-184, for treating Glioblastoma (GBM). Currently in a Phase 1A clinical trial, LP-184 is being evaluated for safety and tolerability in various solid tumors.
Developed using Lantern’s AI platform, RADR®, LP-184 targets challenging cancers while remaining effective regardless of MGMT expression, a common resistance mechanism in GBM. With nearly 13,000 annual cases in the U.S. and no new treatments approved in over two decades, LP-184 represents a significant advancement in GBM therapy.
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McKesson Partners with Microsoft to Enhance
Oncology Data Processing with Azure AI
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Ontada®, a McKesson business, is partnering with Microsoft to use Azure AI and Azure OpenAI Service to process over 150 million unstructured oncology documents. This collaboration aims to enhance data extraction, improve patient journey insights, and strengthen oncology care through more accurate real-world data, supporting personalized treatments and better outcomes.
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Nanoscope Advances MCO-010 Toward BLA Submission
for Retinitis Pigmentosa
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Nanoscope Therapeutics Inc. announced a productive meeting with the FDA regarding its MCO-010 gene therapy for retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and plans to submit a Biologics License Application (BLA) in Q1 2025. The FDA acknowledged Nanoscope’s proposed next steps for the BLA submission, which has received Fast Track Designation.
RP often leads to severe vision loss, significantly affecting quality of life. CEO & Co-Founder, Sulagna Bhattacharya praised the positive collaboration with the FDA and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to meaningful sight restoration. Nanoscope is also advancing its Stargardt macular degeneration program to a Phase 3 registrational trial.
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Sulagna Bhattacharya, MBA
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NemaLife Secures NIH Grant to Advance
Probiotics and Postbiotics Research
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NemaLife Inc., a TechBio company in Lubbock, TX, has received a grant from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) at the NIH to develop probiotics and postbiotics for human health. The funding will support research using NemaLife's AI-powered organism-on-chip platform to address gut microbiome dysbiosis linked to obesity and neurodegeneration.
CEO Dr. Siva Vanapalli noted that this grant will propel the company's growth in creating new bioactive products for commercial use. NemaLife focuses on sustainable, AI-driven solutions to enhance product development in various health sectors.
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Scorpius Holdings Expands Biomanufacturing Capacity
Through Partnership with U.S. Biotech Company
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Scorpius Holdings is enhancing its biomanufacturing capabilities by partnering with a U.S.-based biotechnology firm. This collaboration will facilitate the transfer of its research cell bank to advanced facilities in San Antonio, Texas, where biomanufacturing operations will commence. The partnership aims to meet the rising demand for safe, U.S.-based development and manufacturing support for innovative biologics research.
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Spark Biomedical’s Groundbreaking Nerve Stimulation Trial
Offers Hope for Managing Bleeding Disorders
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Last year, Huston and Spark Biomedical, a Dallas-based biotech firm, began a trial testing mild electric currents applied near the ear to improve clot stability and platelet activation in 30 participants. Preliminary results show a modest increase in clot stability, though peak platelet activation occurred two hours after stimulation, which may limit its use in emergency settings. Researchers are also evaluating its potential for excessive clotting, though nerve stimulation has a history of safe use. The device is being further tested in women with type 1 von Willebrand disease to reduce excessive menstrual bleeding.
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WuXi STA Expands Biocatalysis Capabilities with
New Enzyme Fermentation Plant
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WuXi STA has expanded its Early Intermediates manufacturing facility in Changshu, China, with a new enzyme fermentation plant. The Biocatalysis Technology Platform offers solutions from enzyme screening to production, leveraging over 2,500 enzymes and expertise in 25+ reaction types. In 2023, WuXi STA applied biocatalysis in 60 synthetic steps, producing over 90 metric tons of APIs and intermediates, aiding partners in accelerating sustainable treatment development.
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Arlington EDC and LiftFund Launch Interest-Free Loan Program
to Boost Local Small Businesses
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The Arlington Economic Development Corporation (EDC) has partnered with LiftFund to launch an Interest Buydown Program, providing zero-percent interest loans to local small businesses. This initiative, LiftFund's first collaboration with a North Texas municipality, offers up to $100,000 in interest-free loans to support growth, innovation, and job creation.
The $300,000 program targets Arlington-based businesses with limited access to conventional funding, offering flexible financing for startup costs, expansion, staffing, and daily operations.
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CBRE Acquires NRG Energy's Renewable Advisory Group
to Boost Sustainability Solutions
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CBRE Group, Inc. has acquired NRG Energy's renewable advisory group, enhancing its Sustainability Solutions. This acquisition enables CBRE to provide comprehensive energy-related services to clients, addressing the growing market demand for renewable energy as companies pursue net-zero commitments.
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Fragomen Wins "Best Health & Wellbeing Strategy"
at HR Leadership Awards 2024
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Fragomen has been recognized in the “Best Health & Wellbeing Strategy” category at the HR Leadership & Management Awards 2024, which celebrate excellence in HR and its critical role in supporting the economy. With a team of over 80 immigration professionals, Fragomen provides comprehensive immigration support to major employers across various industries.
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SBA Awards Health Wildcatters' WISH Network Initiative
to Boost Women in STEM and Healthcare
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The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has awarded Health Wildcatters’ Women in Science and Healthcare (WISH) Network Initiative as a Stage Two winner of the 2024 Growth Accelerator Fund Competition (GAFC), allowing it to expand resources for women in healthcare and STEM across North Texas university campuses.
As a Growth Accelerator Partner, the WISH Network will receive a grant to support the growth of STEM/R&D-focused small businesses in sustainability and biotechnology. Partnering with seven universities, including Dallas College and UT Southwestern, the initiative aims to create networking and educational opportunities for students and entrepreneurs from underserved backgrounds.
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McDermott Will & Emery Earns Mansfield Certification
for Diversity Commitment
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International law firm McDermott Will & Emery has achieved Diversity Lab’s Mansfield Certification, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity. The Firm earned Mansfield Rule Plus 7.0 Certification in the U.S. and Mansfield 3.0 Certification in the U.K. This structured certification process requires law firms to ensure at least 30% of talent pools for leadership roles include underrepresented groups and promotes transparency in advancement processes, fostering equal opportunities for all.
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Turner Construction Named Top Green Builder in the U.S.
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Turner Construction Company has been named the top green builder in the U.S. and a leader in 23 markets by Engineering News-Record’s 2024 top contractor lists. With over 20 years of focus on sustainability, Turner employs innovative strategies to enhance environmental performance and resiliency for clients while reducing energy, water, and waste in its own operations.
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Baylor University Professor Recognized by ACS
for Graduate Education Excellence
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Baylor University’s inaugural James R. Schofield Endowed Chair in Biochemistry, Ivan Korendovych, Ph.D., has received recognition from the American Chemical Society (ACS) for his exceptional contributions to graduate education. Recently joining Baylor from Syracuse University, he earned the Nobel Laureate Signature Award for Graduate Education in Chemistry for his mentorship of graduate student Sagar Bhattacharya, Ph.D. Together, they developed the fastest artificial enzyme, with their groundbreaking research published in Nature in 2022. This prestigious award highlights Korendovych's impactful mentorship and Baylor's commitment to excellence in graduate education.
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Dallas College Launches B.S.N. Program
to Address Nursing Demand
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Dallas College is meeting the rising need for nurses by launching a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) program. This affordable pathway enables students to advance their careers and addresses the projected demand for over 275,000 additional nurses in the U.S. by 2030.
With no enrollment cap, the program has attracted a diverse group of students, including a first cohort of 25 expected to graduate in summer 2025. Graduates will be equipped to pursue various roles in healthcare, including opportunities in underserved areas, and can also earn certification as bilingual medical interpreters.
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UT Arlington Study Uncovers Snake
Intestinal Regeneration Insights for Human Health
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Research from The University of Texas at Arlington, UT Southwestern Medical Center, and the University of Alabama has uncovered how pythons regenerate their intestines without intestinal crypts, a feature in mammals. Pythons experience significant atrophy during fasting, then double their intestinal mass within 48 hours of feeding.
Using single-cell RNA sequencing, the study identified conserved signaling pathways involved in this process, paralleling human metabolic responses, such as after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. A key finding was the role of BEST4+ cells, present in both pythons and humans but absent in common mammalian models. These cells are crucial for early regeneration, promoting lipid transport and metabolism.
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UT Dallas Study Links Long-Term Cannabis Use
to Sleep and Memory Issues
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(from left to right) Psychology doctoral student Tracy W. Brown
and Dr. Francesca Filbey
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A UT Dallas study found that long-term cannabis use may lead to sleep difficulties, which could worsen memory problems. Published in the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, the research by Dr. Francesca Filbey examines the connections among cannabis use, sleep, and memory.
As cannabis legalization increases, these findings aim to inform patients and physicians about potential impacts. With about 1 in 8 U.S. adults using cannabis and 10% at risk for cannabis use disorder, understanding these effects is crucial for public health.
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UNTHSC Researchers Use 3D Bioprinting
to Advance Keratoconus Treatment
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(from left to right) Dr. Dimitrios Karamichos
and Dr. Jayoung Kim
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Researchers at the University of North Texas Health Science Center are using 3D bioprinting to improve treatment for keratoconus, a corneal condition that can cause blindness.
Led by Drs. Dimitrios Karamichos and Jayoung Kim, the team aims to create personalized devices that offer more treatment options, expanding care beyond current limitations like corneal cross-linking.
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UTSW Researchers Elected to National Academy of Medicine for Breakthroughs in Cancer and Metabolic Disease
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(from left to right) Carlos Arteaga, M.D., and David Mangelsdorf, PhD
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Carlos L. Arteaga, M.D., and David Mangelsdorf, Ph.D., of UT Southwestern Medical Center, have been elected to the National Academy of Medicine, a prestigious honor in health and medicine. Dr. Arteaga is recognized for his breakthroughs in breast cancer research, including PI3K inhibitor therapies that slow cancer progression. Dr. Mangelsdorf has made significant advances in lipid biology, with implications for treating diabetes, obesity, and cancer. UT Southwestern President Daniel K. Podolsky praised their outstanding contributions to breast cancer and metabolic disease research.
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The Global Materials Powerhouse
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Celanese Corporation is a global powerhouse in specialty materials and chemicals, driving innovation across industries from automotive to electronics and beyond. With a relentless focus on solving complex material challenges, Celanese combines advanced technology with a commitment to sustainability, empowering its customers to create high-performance, eco-friendly products. Known for its cutting-edge labs, including the Micromax™ Electronic Inks and Pastes Lab, they are the pioneers shaping the future of manufacturing, electronics, healthcare, and more.
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FUNDING & MENTORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
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Nucleate Texas: 2025 Activator
Applications due November 6, 2024
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Nucleate is an equity-free Activator program that supports life science ventures from top labs globally from the earliest stage. If you are an academic trainee interested in building a life science startup, then this is the program for you.
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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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Venture Dallas 2024
Join Venture Dallas to learn more about the early and growth-stage investment climate in DFW, how to capitalize on it, and what’s coming next.
October 30th | Dallas, TX
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Texas Life Science Forum
Join Rice Alliance and BioHouston for their Texas Life Science Forum, the premier life science event in Texas that brings together members from industry, emerging life science companies, academic, and investors.
November 7th | Houston, TX
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Researcher's Roundup 2024
Join CPRIT and the Carson Leslie Foundation as they round up Texas Childhood Brain Cancer Investigators to discuss, encourage and identify collaboration. Outcome of Roundup will frame CPRIT’s Childhood Brain Cancer Requests for Applications.
November 10th - 12th | Dallas, TX
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North Texas Cancer Advocacy Breakfast
Join the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACSCAN) as they host their annual Cancer Advocacy Breakfast.
November 13th | Dallas, TX
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Innovation Showcase
Join VelocityTX and other leaders from across San Antonio's innovation ecosystem as we come together to celebrate our city's startup community. This open house-style event will highlight our work to advance San Antonio's bioscience and military medical communities as we develop an urban Innovation District that will promote inclusive economic opportunity for generations to come.
November 14th | San Antonio, TX
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WEDallas Business + Showcase Pitch
Join WEDallas (Women Entrepreneurs Dallas) for their signature program created by Capital One & The DEC Network. This year-round program is designed to equip, inspire, and empower women entrepreneurs in North Texas. The 2024 WEDallas Cohort sponsored by Capital One is ready to pitch!
November 20th | Dallas, TX
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A Scientist’s Guide to U.S. Residency:
Expert Tips for Foreign Scientists
Join ACS for a webinar with Brian H. Getson, Esq., a leading immigration attorney from Getson & Schatz, P.C. for expert advice on navigating U.S. immigration laws specific to scientists.
November 21st | Virtual
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New Year, New Career: LinkedIn Playbook for Personal Branding & Networking
Join BioNTX to learn innovative LinkedIn personal branding and networking strategies to land your dream job, C-suite role, consulting gig, or next internal promotion. Gain valuable insights and practical advice to ensure your career success from a seasoned Executive Career Coach and an Executive Search professional.
December 10th | Virtual
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Thank You for Your Membership & Support!
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