Emerge, Converge or Diverge - How New Technologies Become a Business

From the mapping of the human genome to stem cell research, there's no question that advances in biotechnology have our attention. While some critics argue that these advances are unlikely to rival the impact of the Internet, proponents feel strongly that, like the invention of the desktop computer, it will be 25 years before the enormity of the impact will begin to be understood. As industry giants like IBM and Compaq pour $100 million each into research projects on biotechnology, many questions are raised. What are the practical applications? How will it improve our quality of life? What does the hybrid of information technology and biotechnology - called bioinformatics - mean for our economy, for the Pacific Northwest and for you in particular? On September 19th, the MIT Enterprise Forum and the Washington Biotechnology and Biomedical Association will assemble a panel of experts to offer pivotal perspectives on this fast-emerging field. Topics to be addressed include:

The potential contributions information technology can make to biotechnology advances
The market potential and business models of promising bioinformatics companies
Barriers to transforming biotechnology's discoveries into commercial applications
The potentially growth-inhibiting issue that some have identified as the "cultural divide" between biotech and infotech
The Pacific Northwest's unique positioning to become a center for bioinformatic research and opportunities

Our speakers were selected from diverse industry segments including information technology, biotechnology, venture capital and pharmaceutical sectors to provide a well-rounded and multi-faceted dialogue. Moderator:

Bruce Carter, President and CEO, Zymogenetics

Panelists:

Jeff Augen, Director - Business Strategy Life Sciences, Blue Gene, IBM
Tim Clark, Vice President of Informatics, Millennium Pharmaceuticals
Steve Friend, President, Rosetta Inpharmatics
Camille Samuels Pearson, Managing Director, Versant Ventures

The MIT Enterprise Forum of the Northwest (MITEF) is a volunteer, non-profit organization chartered to foster entrepreneurial activities in the Pacific Northwest. It provides today's fast-moving start-ups and emerging growth companies with a chance to learn from the experiences of their peers and competitors, gain feedback and insight from leading industry experts, and establish relationships with potential business partners. MITEF is affiliated with the Alumni Association of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and all events are open to anyone interested in growing or enhancing a business. For more information, the about section of this website at About MITWA or view MITEF's newsletter Forum Focus at http://web.mit.edu/entforum/www/focus_online/Issues.html. The Washington Biotechnology & Biomedical Association (WBBA) is a non-profit trade association with more than 300 members, including biotechnology and medical device companies, research institutions, academic centers, and associate members. Founded in 1989 WBBA's mission is to enhance the quality of life by promoting the growth and understanding of the state's biosciences community. To learn more about WBBA's innovative programs and activities in advocacy, education and member services, and Washington's thriving life sciences industry sector visit http://www.wabio.com. Sign up early, we're expecting a sold -out event! Event Information: Tickets are $35/person, including dinner and three hours of validated parking. Tickets $45/person after September 14th, space permitting. No refunds after 5:00 p.m, September 14, 2001. Companies reserving a table of 12 will have their names displayed prominently on the table. Reservations and prepayment are required (Visa, MasterCard and AMEX welcome.) To Register For a Single Event: Click the register button above, or call (206)283-9595. Season Tickets: Save time and money by purchasing a season ticket for $252 - a 10% discount. Buy several, they're a great marketing and networking opportunity. Call MITEF office at (206)283-9595 to purchase season tickets.