Industry experts discuss the advancing the regional life sciences industry at Philly Builds Bio+: Second Annual Symposium

Louis P. Kassa III, MPA, CEO of the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center (PABC), moderated a panel discussion about “Philly Life Science Continuum: Fueling the Advancement of Science” at the Philly Builds Bio+: 2nd Annual Symposium for Life Science Innovation Sept. 12 in Philadelphia’s Union League Club.

The panelists were Matthew Burkhardt, director of B+labs at Cira Centre, Lorenzo Pellegrini, PhD, managing partner at Hatch Biofund and Jeffrey DeVuono, EVP and senior managing director at Brandywine Realty Trust.

 Panelists (L-R): Lorenzo Pellegrini, Jeffrey DeVuono and Matthew Burkhardt with Lou Kassa

The discussion focused on “the different elements necessary for the growth and development of life sciences, beginning with institution research to fuel discovery,” organizers said.

“I was very honored to be a part of Philly Builds Bio+ event this year, there were great panelists and impactful keynote speakers throughout the entire day,” Kassa said. He added, “The life sciences industry in the greater Philadelphia region is thriving, building foundational ecosystems and ready to go to the next level.”

More than 300 professionals attended the event, with over 40 different presenters across the entire ecosystem, including three keynotes and seven panel sessions. 

About the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center (PABC): The PABC uses a highly successful services-based approach to nurture and guide its member companies to success, advancing biotechnology, maximizing synergies among nonprofit scientists and their commercial colleagues, and launching new ideas and discoveries that will make a difference. Managed by the Institute and led by a board appointed by the Foundation, PABC has more than 100 member companies, mostly small to mid-size science, research and pharmaceutical companies. Nearly 50 of those companies have operations on the Doylestown campus. In partnership with Brandywine Realty Trust, the PABC opened B+Labs at Cira Centre in Philadelphia’s University City in January 2022.