Partnering with Pharma Panel at RESI Boston: A Gateway for Startups

By Momo Yamamoto, Investor Research Analyst, LSN

The Partnering with Pharma panel at RESI Boston is set to be an enlightening session for startups and investors. It will focus on the critical intersection between innovative therapeutics and big pharmaceutical companies. As the industry increasingly seeks external sources for groundbreaking therapies, this panel will delve into the strategies and processes that major pharmaceutical players employ to identify and evaluate early-stage assets.

Partnering with Pharma Panel Speakers

Gauri Nair Senior Director Business Development AbCellera (Moderator)	Fabrizio Conicella Head COI&C, Center of Open Innovation & Competence Chiesi	Neel Desai Executive Director, Business Development & Licensing Biogen
Asli Sahin Search & Evaluation, Neuroscience, Sr. Manager, Strategy Leadership Program AbbVie	Deepa Talpade Head of BD&L, Oncology and Radiology Bayer	Joshi Venugopal Head of Region Europe, Novartis Gene Therapy & Rare Diseases, Senior VP Novartis

Key Topics of Discussion

The panel will cover several essential aspects of the pharma-startup relationship. One of the focal points will be how pharma companies source promising early-stage assets. The discussion will likely explore various strategies, including participation in conferences and pitch events, forming academic partnerships, and utilizing advanced technologies like AI and data analytics to identify potential candidates. Another critical topic will be these companies’ evaluation process when assessing potential acquisitions or partnerships. Panelists will share insights into their due diligence procedures, the criteria they use to gauge scientific validity and market potential, and the frameworks they employ for risk assessment. The conversation will also touch on the specific therapeutic areas and technologies that currently pique the interest of big pharma. Understanding these areas is invaluable for startups looking to align their research and development efforts with industry demand. Furthermore, the panel will address how early in the development process pharmaceutical companies are willing to engage with startups, discussing opportunities for pre-clinical partnerships, seed funding initiatives, and involvement in incubator and accelerator programs.

Practical Advice for Startups

A significant benefit of this panel will be the practical advice offered to startups on effectively pitching their assets to big pharma. Panelists will guide tailoring presentations to align with specific company interests, demonstrating clear value propositions, and proactively addressing potential concerns that may arise during discussions.

Industry Trends and Future Outlook

With a diverse lineup of panelists representing major companies, attendees can expect a comprehensive view of current trends within the pharmaceutical industry. The discussion will likely cover emerging therapeutic modalities, the shifting regulatory landscape, and the growing impact of AI and machine learning on drug discovery.

The Partnering with Pharma panel at RESI Boston promises to be a valuable resource for startups navigating the complex landscape of pharmaceutical partnerships. By offering insider knowledge on how big pharma approaches early-stage assets, this session will equip attendees with the insights needed to successfully position their innovations in a competitive market. With expert perspectives from industry leaders, the panel is poised to illuminate the path forward for startups seeking to make their mark in the ever-evolving world of therapeutics.