Novartis BioCamp 2013: Perspectives on healthcare challenges
The pioneering program of seminars, workshops and presentations by top Novartis executives, researchers and a Nobel Laureate gives the select group a thorough overview of the life sciences industry – and gets them to think like entrepreneurs.
“You get a perspective on how science leads to product development and the whole commercial side of the business. This is something that we don’t learn at universities.”
The students, picked from 40 leading universities in 21 countries and territories, will gather at the Novartis headquarters in Switzerland from August 25-28 for the 4th annual International Biotechnology Leadership Camp.
BioCamp helps students understand trends and challenges in the fields of biotechnology and life science and learn what’s needed to start and run a biotech company successfully. “One important thing about BioCamp that I want delegates to remember is that they need to be catalysts, that catalysts are important in sparking change and it’s through that catalytic interaction that great ideas can come alive,” said Ann Fudge, member of the Novartis Board of Directors.
This year the focus is on biotechnology and the challenges facing scientists, researchers and entrepreneurs as they work to bring medicines to market that benefit patients. BioCamp looks at the process of global drug development, from proof-of-concept to patient access, and how advances in life sciences lead to new pharmaceutical products.
BioCamp will highlight the constant search within Novartis for new targeted therapies that could change the practice of medicine and deliver the highest benefit for patients. These include, for example, the next generation of biologics, drugs grown in living cells which are revolutionizing the treatment of numerous chronic diseases.
Top Novartis scientists will talk to BioCamp participants about the process of developing these new cures and how the company is developing a global network of research and development facilities to reinforce this work.
“Deepening our research commitment is key to delivering our long term vision for the company,” said Joseph Jimenez, CEO of Novartis. “By focusing on the patient and following the science, Novartis has discovered innovative treatments for disorders ranging from cancer to degenerative disease. “We hope to see these BioCamp students lead us into a future where patients all over the world receive optimal care.”