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Engineering Breakthroughs: How Tecan Partners with MedTech Innovators to Scale Smarter 

3 Jun

At RESI Boston June, Tecan joins as a sponsor, and a strategic development partner for early-stage MedTech and life science companies. In this interview, Jed Palmer, Director of R&D and Engineering, shares how Tecan supports innovators from prototype to scalable product, what technologies they’re excited to partner on, and what startups can do to stand out in the eyes of a seasoned engineering team.

Jed Palmer CaitiCaitlin Dolegowski

Caitlin Dolegowski (CD): Can you briefly introduce Tecan and your role within the company, particularly as it relates to partnering and innovation?

Jed Palmer (JP): Tecan partners with companies across life sciences, diagnostics, and MedTech as an integrated, global development and manufacturing organization. Within Tecan, our Technology Development group works closely with MedTech innovators to bring breakthrough technologies from concept to working prototype in months, not years. From there, Tecan supports the transition to manufacturable, scalable solutions through our global network and operations

In my role as Director of R&D, I lead cross-functional teams of engineers and scientists who specialize in early-stage system design, particularly for electronics-based, energy-delivering and high-precision medical devices. We work closely with startups and emerging technology companies to overcome integration, prototyping, and scalability challenges, acting as a true extension of their R&D team.

CD: What motivated Tecan to sponsor and attend RESI Boston this year? What makes this conference valuable to your team?

JP: RESI Boston is one of the premier conferences that brings together a critical mass of early-stage life sciences and MedTech innovators who are actively looking for partnership, not just exposure. For us, it’s a unique opportunity to connect with founders and technical leaders who are right at that moment where concept validation meets real-world execution.

We sponsored RESI because we believe our customers’ technologies have the power to shape the future of healthcare and drive meaningful impact. As engineers, we want to be at the center of that innovation, working side by side with our partners. Our goal is to be a true strategic collaborator, not just a service provider, offering deep technical expertise and scalable platforms that help turn promising ideas into transformative, market-ready products.

CD: What types of early-stage companies or technologies are you most interested in connecting with at RESI? Are there particular therapeutic areas or platforms that align with Tecan’s strategic goals?

JP: We’re especially interested in early-stage companies developing energy-based therapies, electrophysiology tools, neuromodulation platforms, and next-gen surgical systems, particularly those integrating complex electronics or control systems. Therapeutic areas that align closely with our strategy include:

  • Cardiac and electrophysiology devices
  • Minimally invasive surgical technologies
  • Implantable and wearable therapeutics
  • Neurotech platforms

We partner with teams solving tough engineering problems in power delivery, system integration, miniaturization, etc. Our goal is to accelerate their journey to functional prototype and scale.

CD: How does Tecan typically engage with startups? Are you looking to collaborate through investment, strategic partnerships, technology licensing, or another model?

JP: Our approach is very hands-on and partnership-driven. We focus on collaborative technology development, acting as an extension of our partners’ R&D team—bringing a multidisciplinary group of engineers, physicists, and system architects to accelerate progress.

We understand that no two companies or technologies are the same. Whether it’s a short-term technical challenge or a long-term product roadmap, we work with our partners to define a structure that aligns with their goals, resources, and timelines. Our focus is on building the kind of partnership that delivers meaningful value.

CD: What advice would you give to early-stage companies looking to capture the interest of a company like Tecan at a partnering conference?

JP: The most compelling startups are the ones who are clear on what problem they’re solving—and have a grounded view of what they need help with. You don’t need to have everything figured out. What resonates with us is clarity around the application, an understanding of technical gaps, and openness to collaborative development.

Also, don’t be afraid to bring your early challenges forward. We’re not just here for polished decks—we’re here for the engineering friction points, the integration problems, and the roadblocks that need real solutions.

CD: Are there any common challenges you see when evaluating potential partners in the life science ecosystem, and how can companies better prepare to overcome them?

JP: In the early stages of technology development, it’s very common to not recognize the assumptions that were made in designing a treatment. We like to see teams that are open to having those assumptions challenged in order to progress the technology.

Another common challenge is underestimating the time and complexity required to move from proof-of-concept to a robust, testable prototype. Teams often get stuck when transitioning from feasibility to development because the architecture wasn’t built with flexibility or scale in mind.

Companies can better prepare by thinking about system-level design earlier in their process. Bringing in a development partner with deep hardware/software integration experience can help avoid costly rework, especially for energy-delivering or electronics-driven devices. Early conversations around testability, firmware strategy, and control platforms can save months.

CD: Looking ahead, what trends or innovations in the life sciences space are you particularly excited about, and how do they align with Tecan’s long-term vision?

JP: We’re particularly excited by the convergence of energy delivery technologies, real-time sensing, and closed-loop control, especially in areas like Neurostim technologies and electroceuticals. These are areas where modular, scalable architectures can unlock faster development. We’re also watching the push for personalized and distributed care, which demands smaller, smarter, and more adaptable devices.

Our long-term vision is to be the go-to partner for teams looking to innovate faster and scale smarter. RESI is one of the places where that journey starts.

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BioMetas and Life Science Nation Form Global Accelerator Alliance to Transform Early-Stage Therapeutics 

20 May

By Dennis Ford, Founder & CEO, Life Science Nation (LSN)

DF-News-09142022

BioMetas Group, a leading preclinical contract research organization (CRO), and Life Science Nation (LSN), a global leader in life science commercialization and capital formation, have joined forces to launch a strategic cross-border accelerator alliance. This partnership aims to reshape how early-stage therapeutic startups are sourced, developed, and scaled, combining scientific execution with commercialization readiness to build globally fundable companies.

The new alliance links BioMetas Innovator (Singapore) and LSN Labs (Boston) into a fully integrated platform. Together, they will select and support elite early-stage therapeutic assets from their shared networks in North America, APAC, and Europe.

At the heart of the partnership is a joint service-for-equity model designed to address one of the most persistent challenges in early-stage biotechs: the capital gap between scientific promise and commercial viability. By providing critical services in exchange for equity, both accelerators aim to empower promising startups that might otherwise stall due to limited funding.

“The early-stage ecosystem often fails not because of science, but because of timing, execution, and lack of access,” said Simon Hua, Founder of BioMetas. “By partnering with LSN, we combine rigorous preclinical testing with a global commercialization platform to help these companies reach key inflection points and engage the world.”

BioMetas will deliver milestone-based development and scientific validation through its CRO services. With a team of over 150 experienced scientists and deep experience across oncology, immunology, and other diseases, BioMetas provides a full suite of preclinical services, including in vivo / in vitro pharmacology, PK/PD modeling, biomarker discovery, protein science, and IND enabling package studies. These capabilities are offered under a service-for-equity structure, allowing startups to generate high-value, decision-driving data before raising their first institutional capital.

LSN will provide its entrepreneurial education curriculum, global partnering and roadshow training, access to its proprietary investor and licensing partner database, BD Assist meeting scheduling, and the tools needed to prepare and execute global roadshow campaigns. Companies will also gain exposure by participating in the RESI global partnering conferences that connect startups with capital investors and business development teams annually at five international events.

Launching with a 20-company pilot cohort, the alliance will apply a shared diligence framework to evaluate scientific potential and commercial readiness. Participating startups will gain access to targeted development services, curated partner matching, and cross-border exposure to capital and licensing partners.

Too often, scientific founders are left to navigate commercialization alone. The new program provides a structured bridge from discovery to global market engagement, giving founders the tools, systems, and support to thrive.

“This alliance creates a new engine for global therapeutic innovation,” said Dennis Ford, Founder of Life Science Nation. “It’s not just about helping scientists become entrepreneurs — it’s about giving them the infrastructure, the partners, and the roadmap to succeed on a global stage.”

This initiative marks the first step in building a scalable venture-building infrastructure for early-stage therapeutics. As the platform expands, startups will gain access not only to services and education, but to a growing ecosystem of capital partners and strategic collaborators committed to advancing breakthrough innovation.

Media Contact:
info@lifesciencenation.com
www.lifesciencenation.com | www.biometasgroup.com

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Case Study: Brisbane’s Accelerator Model That’s Raising Capital and Elevating MedTech 

13 May

Over the past decade, Brisbane has transformed into one of Asia-Pacific’s most dynamic centers for MedTech innovation and commercialization. This remarkable evolution is the result of a deliberate strategy led by the Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA), which has positioned the city as a launchpad for global health technologies through sustained investment, visionary leadership, and a collaborative approach that unites government, academia, and industry.

BEDA: Orchestrating Growth and Global Connections 
BEDA’s mission to drive sustainable economic growth by fostering innovation and attracting investment is at the heart of Brisbane’s MedTech ascent. BEDA’s holistic approach aligns the city’s world-class research institutions, hospitals, and universities with a vibrant start-up culture and robust infrastructure. The result is an integrated ecosystem that supports MedTech startups from ideation to international expansion.

Brisbane’s strategic location in Queensland—the world’s 12th-largest economy—provides seamless access to a $90 trillion innovation corridor. With 17 Free Trade Agreements and globally competitive business incentives, the city offers MedTech companies a cost-effective base for scaling into Asian and global markets. The city also boasts the largest healthcare precinct in the Southern Hemisphere and a health sector projected to grow by 36% by 2031, supported by more than 140 innovation hubs and a steady pipeline of skilled graduates from the University of Queensland and other leading institutions.

The BEDA-LSN Partnership: Bridging Brisbane and the World 
One facet of BEDA’s strategy is its partnership with Life Science Nation (LSN), a Boston-based commercialization platform renowned for connecting life science companies with global investors and licensing partners. Over three years, BEDA and LSN have launched a bespoke global accelerator program that provides Brisbane startups access to LSN’s proprietary investor database, entrepreneurial education, and participation in RESI Global Partnering Events.

This collaboration has established an actual two-way innovation bridge. Through the accelerator, Brisbane companies embark on 12- to 18-month global roadshows, pitching their technologies to international capital investors and licensing partners at premier events like J.P. Morgan Healthcare Week in San Francisco, where LSN has been hosting its RESI JPM partnering event for the past 13 years. In return, global capital, strategic partners, and Pharma seeking licensing deals flow back into Brisbane, amplifying its reputation and strengthening its local ecosystem.

Tangible Impact: Success Stories and Economic Growth 
The impact of the BEDA/LSN global accelerator is evident in the success of its alumni. Within just 24 months, 90% of participating companies have collectively raised over $110 million, with many securing new partnerships, investments, or clients within a year of graduation. Brisbane startups have also consistently earned global recognition on the RESI Innovation Challenge stage, winning top honors in LSN’s Innovator’s Pitch Challenge (IPC) across multiple years. Podium finishes include:

  • Field Orthopaedics – Gold, RESI JPM 2023
  • Max Kelsen – Silver, RESI JPM 2023
  • Clinials – Silver, RESI BIO Boston 2023
  • Convergence Medical – Silver, RESI JPM 2024
  • Gelomics – Bronze, RESI JPM 2024
  • Kimaritec – Gold, RESI JPM 2025

Notably, Convergence Medical, a Brisbane-based company, developed a world-first arthroscopic surgical robot, securing a $5 million investment from U.S.-based Avicella Capital due to meeting up at LSN’s RESI JP Morgan event in 2024 and closing the deal a year later at RESI JPM in 2025. Convergence was also accepted into the FDA Breakthrough Devices Program thanks to connections made through the accelerator. Other alumni, including Microbio and De Motu Cordis, have achieved regulatory milestones and expanded into new markets.

BEDA’s efforts have also attracted significant international players. Stryker, a U.S. MedTech giant, opened its first R&D lab in Brisbane’s Herston Health Precinct, citing the city’s collaborative ecosystem and access to top scientific talent as key reasons for their investment.

A Blueprint for the Future 
Brisbane’s MedTech success is not an overnight phenomenon. It is the product of sustained investment, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to collaboration. As the city prepares to host the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics, billions of dollars in new health infrastructure projects are underway, further enhancing Brisbane’s global profile and capacity for innovation.

For MedTech pioneers, Brisbane now offers more than just a supportive environment—it provides a proven pathway to global markets. Through the combined efforts of BEDA, LSN, and an engaged network of local and international partners, Brisbane has become a beacon for health innovation, investment, and opportunity in the Asia-Pacific and beyond.

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Redefining Emergency Care: An Interview with Opportunity Health 

6 May

Third-place winner at the RESI Europe Innovator’s Pitch Challenge discusses their breakthrough anti-choking device and plans for market launch. 

Interview with Iñigo Almazán Tife, Industrial Design Engineer of Opportunity Health by Caitlin Dolegowski, Marketing Manager, LSN

Iñigo Almazán Tife CaitiCaitlin Dolegowski

We sat down with Iñigo Almazán Tife, from Opportunity Health to learn more about the inspiration behind their life-saving innovation, their experience at RESI Europe, and what lies ahead for the company. Opportunity Health recently took third place in the Innovator’s Pitch Challenge at RESI Europe, and their technology is generating attention for good reason. 

Caitlin Dolegowski (CD): Tell us about the origin of Opportunity Health and the innovation behind your solution. 

Iñigo Almazán Tife (IT): Opportunity Health began with a deeply personal event. Our CEO, Germán, was inspired to create this company after a frightening incident involving his brother, Txema. Txema began choking during a family dinner. Thankfully, their father had some knowledge of how to perform a life-saving intervention and managed to save him. But the family recognized it could have ended very differently—had Theo been alone, the outcome might have been fatal. That moment sparked the idea behind our solution. 

The result is Yarnasa, the first automatic, self-applicable anti-choking device. It’s designed for emergency situations and intended to be simple and intuitive—something that can be used in the moment, even by the person who is choking. 

CD: Can the device be used on both adults and children? 

IT: At this stage, our focus is on adults and individuals over the age of 12. This decision is driven by data: around 90% of fatal choking cases occur in individuals over the age of 65. Once we validate the product for adults, our plan is to begin trials to adapt and validate its use for children as well. 

CD: What stage of development and fundraising is Opportunity Health in now? 

IT: We’re currently patent pending and preparing for CE marking in the European market. Our aim is to launch commercially in Europe by mid-2027. The regulatory process for medical devices in Europe typically takes about two years, so we’re laying the groundwork now. 

In parallel, we’re looking ahead to securing FDA clearance for the U.S. market. However, we currently need additional resources to begin that process. One of our near-term goals is to secure funding to pursue FDA certification in parallel with our European regulatory strategy. 

CD: How does your device compare to existing solutions? 

IT: There are other anti-choking devices on the market, but ours is fundamentally different. Most existing options require prior knowledge or physical effort from another person. That becomes problematic if, for example, the person assisting is also elderly or not physically capable. 

Yarnasa is fully self-applicable and automatic. There’s no need for training or strength—just activate it, place it, and press a button. We’re offering a premium, highly innovative solution that redefines the category of anti-choking devices. 

CD: You took third place in the Innovator’s Pitch Challenge at RESI Europe. What was your experience like? 

IT: RESI Europe exceeded our expectations. It was incredibly well organized and offered a strong platform for networking. We met potential investors and collaborators who provided feedback not only on the product but also on company strategy and market approaches. 

The only improvement we’d suggest is better alignment between registered investors and actual attendance. Some investors were only available virtually, which made coordination a bit challenging. But overall, it was a very positive experience. 

CD: How was your experience with the Innovator’s Pitch Challenge itself? 

IT: The Pitch Challenge gave us valuable exposure and feedback. Beyond the pitching session, being part of the exhibition hall allowed us to interact with a wide range of stakeholders. We had insightful conversations about go-to-market strategies across Europe and the U.S., which gave us a clearer roadmap for commercialization. We walked away with actionable insights and new connections. 

CD: Did RESI Europe help you take any steps forward in your fundraising efforts? 

IT: Yes, absolutely. We made new investor connections and followed up by sharing our deck. We’re now in active conversations. Fundraising is a long process, of course, but RESI helped us move things forward. 

CD: What are your goals for the next year or two? 

IT: In the coming months, we’re focused on finalizing our prototype for industrial production, targeting September of this year. After that, we plan to launch an investment round by the end of 2025 or early 2026. The goal of that round is to fund the company through the final development phase and launch the product in market. 

CD: What advice would you give other companies preparing to pitch at RESI? 

IT: I wouldn’t call myself an expert in pitching, but from our experience, I’d say preparation is key. Be clear about the main message you want to convey. And most of all, enjoy the event—be open to conversation. You never know who you’ll meet, and those connections could play a vital role in your company’s journey. 

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Introducing Haystack Corner – Insights from Juan Carlos López and Andrew Marshall of Haystack Science

29 Apr

By Dennis Ford, Founder & CEO, Life Science Nation (LSN)

DF-News-09142022Life Science Nation is excited to introduce a new feature in the Next Phase newsletter: Haystack Corner, highlighting insights from The Needle, the weekly publication by Juan Carlos López and Andrew Marshall at Haystack Science.

The Needle delivers sharp, actionable updates focused on the earliest stages of biotech commercialization. From translational breakthroughs to the business strategies shaping tomorrow’s therapeutics, The Needle offers a unique perspective for entrepreneurs, researchers, and investors working to move discoveries from the lab to the market.

About the Contributors

  • Juan Carlos López, Ph.D. — Former Chief Editor of Nature Medicine, with deep expertise in neuroscience, academic collaborations, venture philanthropy, rare diseases, and translational research.
  • Andrew Marshall, Ph.D. — Former Chief Editor of Nature Biotechnology, a recognized leader in biotech venture creation and scientific commercialization.
Juan-Carlos-Lopez
Juan Carlos Lopez		 Andy-Marshall
Andy Marshall

LSN is proud to bring Haystack Corner to Next Phase readers, starting with this issue. LSN encourages you to explore and share these curated insights with colleagues and peers who are passionate about advancing life science innovation.

The Needle. Issue #1

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Why Do 90% of Life Science Startups Fail? Because the Science Never Gets Out of the Way 

22 Apr

By Dennis Ford, Founder & CEO, Life Science Nation (LSN)

DF-News-09142022The Core Challenge: Science Without Commercialization Fails

Despite strong science, most life science startups struggle to scale because their founders lack the commercial expertise and support to navigate the investor landscape. Traditional accelerators often fall short, offering generic mentorship rather than hands-on, market-facing guidance.

Life Science Nation (LSN) addresses this gap by preparing startups to succeed on the global stage. From seed to Series B, LSN equips companies with the narrative, materials, and investor access needed to execute targeted global roadshows. Startups don’t just get introductions—they get a playbook for matching with the right partners, at the right stage, for the right reasons.

A Two-Way Innovation Bridge

LSN’s platform operates in both directions. It helps startups leave their region to reach global capital and commercial partners and connects international investors and licensing firms with often overlooked emerging markets. LSN is the connective tissue linking regional science to global dealmaking from LATAM to China to Europe and North America.

Regions that succeed in commercialization align government, academia, and industry. LSN brings the final piece: a global engine that sources, vets, and connects startups with the right capital and channels to commercialize.

Most Regions Have Science. Few Have a Commercialization Engine.

Virtually every country boasts scientific talent and academic excellence, but most lack the infrastructure, regulatory flexibility, and partner networks to commercialize innovations globally. LSN fills that gap by preparing startups for the global market and helping international players tap into new regional pipelines. The result: cross-border dealmaking, accelerated product development, and a more connected global life sciences sector.

RESI & LSN Labs: Global Success Starts Here

LSN’s commercialization platform is anchored by RESI (Redefining Early Stage Investments), a global conference series that connects startups and investors through curated, stage-specific matchmaking. With over $5 billion raised by RESI alumni, the event has become a trusted launchpad for early-stage fundraising.

Startups also gain access to the Global Partnering Campaign (GPC) and LSN Labs—a standardized, education-driven accelerator that teaches narrative development, market fit mapping, and investor targeting. It’s a proven system that replaces chance with structure.

The Missing Capital Layer: Early-Stage Therapeutics Fund

To close the early-stage funding gap, LSN is co-launching a $50 million venture fund in partnership with a few strategic stakeholders (unannounced). The fund provides micro-investments, fractional executive support, milestone-based coaching, and access to a global CRO network, offering a de-risked, high-support runway from discovery to Series B. Fully integrated with LSN’s ecosystem, the fund provides capital, coaching, and commercialization support in one unified package, creating a new template for therapeutics’ sourcing, shaping, and scaling.

A Blueprint for the Future of Biotech Commercialization

LSN is rewriting the life science commercialization playbook. By integrating structured education, curated global networks, and early-stage capital, LSN is helping science finally get out of its own way. In doing so, it’s reducing the failure rate of life science startups and ensuring more breakthroughs reach patients worldwide. This is the new commercialization model—where science and business move forward, together.

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Meet Meki Durakovic: The Hospitality Force Behind Boston’s Culinary Hotspots

22 Apr

Interview with Meki Durakovic, a Visionary Restaurant Owner by Caitlin Dolegowski, Marketing Manager, LSN

Meki Durakovic CaitiCaitlin Dolegowski

For life science professionals attending RESI and Bio in June, Boston offers more than innovation—it offers unforgettable hospitality. One of the city’s driving forces behind that experience is Meki Durakovic, a restaurateur whose journey from Europe to Boston has transformed the local dining scene.

Meki got his start running his family’s restaurant at 19 and quickly became known for hosting community events and building customer loyalty. After gaining global experience in Germany, he moved to Boston in 1996, working his way through every level of the hospitality business—from the kitchen to management—ultimately joining the influential Lyons Group.

Today, Meki is the co-owner of some of Boston’s most dynamic venues: Fin Point Oyster Bar & Grille, Tradesman Coffee, Lily’s, Amber Road, Urban Wild, One Beacon, and more. His venues mix warm hospitality, locally sourced menus, and inviting atmospheres perfect for both after-hours business gatherings and casual networking.

As the life sciences world converges on Boston this June, Meki’s restaurants offer more than just meals—they offer a taste of the city’s spirit. Make sure to experience his take on Boston hospitality while you’re in town.

Caitlin Dolegowski (CD): Could you tell us about your Restaurant Group and the several standout restaurants in Boston? Can you describe each one and what makes it unique?

 Meki Durakovic (MD):

  • Tradesman – Best Coffee Shop in Boston with unique pastries & specialty croissants, fresh sandwiches and more. We have Tradesman locations on Broad Street and Federal Street in the financial district as well as in Charlestown. (50 Hood Park Dr. Charlestown, MA )
  • Amber Road – Our newest venue which boasts an open-kitchen, open air concept and patio and serves refined global-inspired New England cuisine, craft cocktails, and an extensive wine list. We recommend this space for elevated full private buyouts for events up to 180 guests. (100 Federal St, Boston, MA)
  • Fin Point – The first restaurant opened by our group that has become the place to be in Boston’s downtown Financial District. Here we host everything from corporate lunches and impressive cocktail receptions to weddings, full corporate buyouts for 200 guests and more. The sophisticated dining space features a raw bar and high-end seafood dishes with global influences. (89 Broad St, Boston, MA)
  • Urban Wild – Boston’s newest entertainment destination features high-tech bowling like you’ve never seen, indoor and outdoor patios with games, and a giant beer garden covered in custom artwork for a true experience. The venue holds up to 600 guests and is located in Charlestown’s quickly growing Hood Park Neighborhood. (100 Hood Park Dr, Boston, MA)

CD: For visitors coming to Boston for RESI and the Bio convention in June, which of your restaurants would you recommend for a great dining experience?

MD: All of the above!

CD: Could you tell me what guests should know about making reservations at your restaurants? Do you recommend booking in advance, and how far out should they plan?

MD: Reservations can be made online on Open Table or by calling directly. Reservations for bowling at Urban Wild can be made 7 days in advance on our website. For events, email our Director of Events, Katie Lofstrom, at events@mnmrestaurantgroup.com

CD: For those looking to take a meeting over a meal, which of your restaurants provides the best setting for a business lunch or dinner?

MD: Fin Point has a fully private dining room perfect for those more private, important meetings and occasions. The room seats up to 20.

CD: What would you advise for those seeking an event where they book a space for a networking event, or want to book the whole bar or restaurant? Please describe your menus, cuisines, and creative dishes. What are some must-try items for first-time guests?

MD: Any of our venues are perfect for hosting full private buyouts. We make the planning process easy!

CD: If RESI attendees seek a spot to gather with colleagues after the conference, do any of your restaurants have bar seating, lounge areas, or late-night options?

MD: All of our venues have bar & lounges, perfect for late-night or mingling after work or after dinner!

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