The thriving life sciences industry in Greater Philadelphia is poised for exponential growth and continued leadership. As a global hub for research, talent, and capital, Greater Philadelphia continues to scale and attract companies in a range of therapeutic areas, including the hot and growing cell and gene therapy subsectors. This momentum is the subject of a Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia program, “Leading Life Sciences: Driving Economic Growth in Greater Philadelphia,” from 3:00-5:00 p.m. on Monday, May 2. The event will take place at four host venues and also feature a virtual panel discussion.

Participants can choose to attend in person at one of four “viewing party” locations – B+labs (Cira Centre, 2929 Arch Street), CIC Philadelphia (3675 Market Street), Jefferson Institute for Bioprocessing (Spring House Innovation Park, 727 Norristown Road), and Pennovation (3401 Grays Ferry Avenue) – or join the conversation via Zoom.

“The multi-venue format is a first-of-its-kind for a Chamber event”, said James Medaglio, Director, Business Attraction & Expansion at the Chamber. “It’s a showcase and celebration of our region’s assets,” he said. “Each of the locations has been achieving their own respective milestones, and this is a great opportunity to share those developments with the community at large.”

As part of the program, Joe Colletti, Executive Vice President of Jones Lang LaSalle, will provide an update on life sciences real estate developments in the Greater Philadelphia market, key drivers impacting real estate decisions of some of the fastest-growing companies, and the critical factors examined while evaluating space.

A moderated panel discussion with leaders from local organizations supporting growth in the life sciences sector will follow and includes these guest speakers:

  • Michael Borda, Ph.D., Associate Vice Provost for Research and Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives, University of Pennsylvania
  • Louis P. Kassa, III, chief operating officer, The Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, and Hepatitis B Foundation
  • Michelle Ottey, Ph.D., Managing Director, CIC Philadelphia
  • Parviz A. Shamlou, Ph.D., Vice President and Executive Director, Jefferson Institute for Bioprocessing

In-person attendees will then have the chance to tour their chosen location. “It’s also an excellent opportunity for connecting,” said Medaglio. “A company can maximize the networking opportunities by sending colleagues to different host venues,” he added.

Visit the Chamber’s website for details and to register.