Pennsylvania is doubling down on its commitment to life sciences, as outlined in the February 26th Life Sciences Pennsylvania Your Advocacy Leaders panel discussion featuring speakers Jen Gilburg, Deputy Secretary, Technology and Entrepreneurship, Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development; Jeff Marrazzo, Co-founder and former CEO, Spark Therapeutics; Chris Molineaux, President & CEO, Life Sciences PA; and moderated by John Grady, Senior Vice President, Northeast Region Executive, Wexford Science & Technology.

Dr. Dario C. Altieri, president and CEO of The Wistar Institute, welcomes attendees

 

The conversation emphasized the life science sector’s economic impact – employing over 85,000 people and contributing billions to the state’s GDP – while highlighting the need for continued investment, innovation, and policy support to sustain momentum.

A key focus of the discussion was the Governor’s proposed $50 million PA Innovation program, which earmarks $30 million to spur life sciences job growth. This initiative aims to streamline and accelerate clinical trial processes, expand early-stage manufacturing opportunities, introduce challenge grants to accelerate drug discovery and development, and introduce a state match for federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants. Additionally, efforts to increase Pennsylvania’s research and development tax credit from $60 million to $120 million, and create a more business-friendly environment were cited as essential for attracting and retaining companies across the Commonwealth.

Panelists also addressed the need for faster regulatory processes and workforce/talent development to maintain Pennsylvania’s competitive edge against other life sciences hubs like Massachusetts and California. Collaboration across industry, government, and academia was highlighted as a driving force for success. With strong public-private partnerships and a clear strategy in place, Pennsylvania is positioning itself as a national leader in biotech, pharmaceuticals, and medical technology.

Thanks to Life Sciences PA for putting this panel together, and to Wexford Science & Technology and The Wistar Institute as event sponsors. To learn more about Life Sciences PA or to become a member, visit https://lifesciencespa.org.

As covered in the panel discussion, LSPA is urging life sciences companies to contact their legislators to support Governor Shapiro’s proposed budget. Learn more HERE.