The BioPathways Entrepreneurial Speaker Series, co-presented by Rosalind Franklin University and the SmartHealth Activator

Speaker Series Spotlights Science and Industry CollaborationsThe BioPathways Entrepreneurial Speaker Series, co-presented by Rosalind Franklin University and the SmartHealth Activator, provides researchers and industry experts the opportunity to share their insights into creating solutions in the life sciences. Jeff Sherman, MD, chief medical officer and executive vice president of research and development at Lake Forest, IL-based Horizon Pharma, visited RFU’s campus in June to discuss research and business strategies that can impact rare diseases. Dr. Sherman, an alumnus of RFU’s medical school, covered Horizon’s process that integrates both current and future solutions. The June program also featured Raul Gazmuri, MD, PhD, director of the RFU Resuscitation Institute, who discussed repurposing a well-known drug to treat and benefit cardiac arrest victims. 

July’s featured speaker, Steve Kuemmerle, PhD, senior director of industry relations for the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Chicago (U of C), explained how the university works with industry to facilitate collaboration in the commercialization of life science solutions. Dr. Kuemmerle, a former long-time Abbott executive, noted the need to establish long-term relationships with key stakeholders, and reviewed U of C’s process to ensure communication and support of investigators. Additionally, Daniel Peterson, PhD, director of RFU’s Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, highlighted recent advances that hold substantial promise for revolutionizing healthcare delivery for neuro-degenerative diseases and ushering in a new era of targeted, personalized medicine. The next BioPathways program, “New Directions in Healthcare Services,” will feature Nimesh Jhaveri, MBA, RPh, divisional vice president at Walgreens, on September 12. Register Today