Michael McTernan’s Post

An inspiring example of interdisciplinary innovation: cutting edge vaccines research, development of shorter, localised supply chains, and the global challenge of pandemic preparedness. The Global Development Hub at Imperial College London convenes, promotes and supports sustainable development research, tapping into deep S+T expertise and passion. Read more 👇

#BIOTECH + #AI = Flagship Pioneering stands out as a global leader in constructing, investing in, and developing transformative biotech companies that change the world (i.e. Moderna). They've recently expanded their innovative footprint into the Asia-Pacific, with the opening of a regional hub in #Singapore. Flagship CEO Noubar Afeyan has shared some exciting insights in a recent interview with Endpoints News. The pioneering firm, known for its bold scientific ventures in #medicine, #sustainability, and #agriculture, has just secured another USD3.6 billion to drive innovation and forge transformative partnerships . Here are some key highlights: 🤝Partnerships: Collaborations with #pharma giants are intensifying, with recent partnerships involving Novo Nordisk and Pfizer in the burgeoning field of #obesity treatments. Afeyan emphasized Flagship's growing role as a reliable supplier of innovative assets to the #pharmaceutical industry 🌐. 🧬💻AI's Role: Afeyan is bullish on AI's transformative potential in biotech. With companies like Generateraising over $700 million to innovate in protein creation using AI, the impact of technology on medical advancements is undeniable . 🌍Broad Impact: Beyond therapeutics, Flagship is making significant strides in addressing global challenges such as food security and climate change through its investments in sustainability and agriculture . 🔬Future Prospects: About half of the new companies Flagship aims to launch are already in development, focusing on areas like programmable medicines and advanced drug delivery systems. Afeyan highlighted the ongoing work in cutting-edge fields like antibody-drug conjugates and radiopharmaceuticals . Afeyan also discussed the juxtaposition of #efficiency and uncertainty in biotech, suggesting that while the process remains challenging, experience and technological advancements are making a significant difference. He remains optimistic about the role of #artificialintelligence in redefining operational approaches and accelerating progress 🚀. You can read the full interview here: https://lnkd.in/gtamzuwj and watch the below video to have a broader understanding. Flagship's visionary approach continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in #lifesciences, promising an exciting #future with each #innovation and #partnership formed.

I am pleased to share my recent opinion piece in The Parliament, where I highlight the critical need for a stable and predictable regulatory framework to enhance the EU biotechnology sector’s competitiveness. Such a framework is essential for fostering innovation that leads to scientific breakthroughs, ultimately advancing societal health and benefiting patients and health systems. The upcoming Biotech Act presents a promising opportunity to achieve these goals. Let us work together to unlock the full potential of biotechnology. #MyCompany #Biotech #Innovation #EU

I wrote this opinion piece to the South China Morning Post on the troubling implications of the Biosecure Act passed by the US House of Representatives. With deep personal connections to the biotech and biopharmaceutical sectors—stemming from my undergraduate studies in biological sciences at PKU—I understand the critical importance of global collaboration in advancing research in this highly risky, talent- and capital-intensive industry. Australia-China Relations Institute, University of Technology Sydney Read more in the link below. Opinion | Is biotech the next battleground in US-China decoupling? With both countries viewing technological leadership as a zero-sum game, the risk of a fragmented global innovation ecosystem is growing. https://lnkd.in/gd5iw-eS

https://lnkd.in/dhTt3jjd Biotechnology has become a cornerstone in the global economy, significantly influencing the expansion of product exports across various sectors. By leveraging the power of biological systems, genetic engineering, and innovative technologies, biotechnology is transforming industries like agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing. In agriculture, biotech innovations have led to genetically modified crops with enhanced resistance to pests, diseases, and environmental stresses, enabling higher yields and more robust exports. Similarly, in the pharmaceutical field, biotech is driving the production of groundbreaking medicines, vaccines, and biologics, facilitating international trade in life-saving treatments. Additionally, the application of biotechnology in industrial processes is helping create sustainable solutions for manufacturing, thereby improving the competitiveness of countries in the global marketplace. As nations embrace these advancements, biotechnology is not only creating new export opportunities but also fostering global collaboration, advancing sustainability, and contributing to the overall well-being of society. With its far-reaching impact, biotechnology continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global product exports. #Biotechnology #GlobalTrade #ExportGrowth #Sustainability #Innovation #AgriTech

🔬 Exciting News! X-Genome Biotech Company and iGene Laboratories have joined forces to revolutionize the biotech landscape in Saudi Arabia and beyond. Here’s what you need to know: Collaboration Highlights: Shared Vision: X-Genome and iGene share a commitment to advancing biotechnology. By pooling their expertise, they aim to drive innovation, improve healthcare, and boost economic growth. Strategic Focus Areas: Bio-Manufacturing & Localization: Establishing a cutting-edge local bio-manufacturing platform will enhance self-sufficiency in producing biologics and biosimilars, reduce healthcare costs, and foster growth. Genomics: X-Genome and iGene aspire to become the leading genomics players in MENA, driving innovation and improving health outcomes. Plant Optimization: Enhancing food security and sustainable agriculture practices aligns with the Kingdom’s goals. Impact: This collaboration directly supports the National Biotechnology Strategy, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global biotech hub by 2040. It’s a win-win for science, healthcare, and the economy. Why It Matters: Health Resilience: Cutting-edge vaccines and localized manufacturing strengthen the Kingdom’s health resilience. Economic Growth: The collaboration attracts investments, creates jobs, and stimulates economic growth. Scientific Leadership: By 2030, KSA aims to lead the biotech sector in MENA and become a major international hub by 2040. 🚀 Let’s celebrate this remarkable journey toward a brighter biotech future! 🌱🔬🌍 Remember, the future of biotechnology lies in collaboration, innovation, and shared vision. 🌟

X-Genome and iGene: A Collaborative Leap in Biotech Advancemen. Introduction The biotechnology landscape is rapidly evolving, and strategic collaborations play a pivotal role in driving innovation. In this article, we explore how X-Genome Biotech Company and iGene Laboratories are joining forces to revolutionize the field. The Collaborators X-Genome and Biotech Company, Known for its cutting-edge research and commitment to genomic advancements, X-Genome brings expertise in gene editing, personalized medicine, and diagnostics. iGene Laboratories, a leader in molecular diagnostics and genetic testing, iGene has a strong foothold in the MENA region. Their state-of-the-art facilities and skilled workforce make them an ideal partner. Key Objectives 1. Research and Development: X-Genome and iGene will collaborate on groundbreaking research projects. Their combined efforts will accelerate discoveries related to genetic diseases, drug development, and precision medicine. 2. Training and Capacity Building: The collaboration aims to train a new generation of biotech professionals. Workshops, seminars, and hands-on training will empower scientists and technicians across KSA and the MENA region. 3. Localization and Innovation: By localizing biomanufacturing processes, the partners will reduce dependency on imports. This aligns perfectly with the National Biotechnology Strategy's goal of self-sufficiency. 4. Genomics Advancements: Leveraging iGene's expertise in genomics, the collaboration will contribute to building a comprehensive genomic database. This data will drive personalized healthcare and disease prevention. Impact on the Biotech Field 1. Economic Growth: The collaboration will attract investments, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth. Biotech startups and entrepreneurs will find fertile ground for innovation. 2. Health Resilience: The joint efforts will enhance health resilience by advancing diagnostics, vaccines, and therapeutics. The goal is to improve patient outcomes and reduce disease burden. 3. Food Security: Through plant optimization, the collaboration will contribute to sustainable agriculture. Food security is a critical aspect of the National Biotechnology Strategy. 4. Global Leadership: By 2030, KSA aims to lead the biotech sector in the MENA region. By 2040, it aspires to be a major international biotechnology hub. Conclusion The X-Genome and iGene collaboration exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships. As they work towards common goals, they embody the spirit of the National Biotechnology Strategy. Together, they are poised to transform the biotech landscape, making Saudi Arabia a global game changer in this vital field. Remember, the future of biotechnology lies in collaboration, innovation, and shared vision. Let's celebrate this remarkable journey!* 🌱🔬🌍 ---