Category Archives: Jim’s Corner

Louisiana is one of just a few states that do not yet have a BIO affiliate. I was invited to speak to community leaders in New Orleans by Jim McNamara, a local real estate investor who is presently the Secretary of the Board of the New Orleans BioInnovation Center, a Member of the Greater New Orleans Biosciences Economic Development District and a Commissioner of the Downtown Development District of New Orleans. Jim believes biotechnology can Read More >

Today, BIO offered seasonal flu vaccines to all employees, many of whom joined me in getting one.  While getting vaccinated against seasonal flu is important, it will not protect us from H1N1 flu so we were advised to get vaccinated against that once it is available. BIO member companies have played a major role in the development and distribution of both the seasonal influenza vaccination and the H1N1 vaccination.  Five BIO member companies are at Read More >

Last week I made my first visit to our South Dakota affiliate. The South Dakota Biotech Association, formed in 2006, held its fourth annual conference on Thursday, September 17th. I began my tour on Wednesday at Hematech, Inc.   The company, headquartered in Sioux Falls, is developing cattle that can efficiently produce human antibodies.  The genetically altered cattle will be used for the production of large quantities of polyclonal antibodies.  These antibodies are expected to help Read More >

Last week I spent a fascinating day with former Vermont Governor Howard Dean and three Members of the Maryland Congressional delegation.  First, along with local Congressman Roscoe Bartlett (R, MD-6), we visited MedImunne’s brand new biologic manufacturing facility in Frederick. The half billion dollar facility is nearly complete and will employ 350 people manufacturing the company’s monoclonal antibody, Synagis. This product helps prevent lower respiratory disease from a common virus which in vulnerable children, particularly Read More >

BIO President and CEO Jim Greenwood joined former HHS Secretary Tommy Thompson and former FDA Deputy Commissioner Scott Gottlieb to discuss biosimilars and the importance of preserving innovation as the nation moves to reform our health care system.