Pfizer Executive and The Michael J. Fox Foundation CEO Will Lead Independent Group of Advisors To Inform and Accelerate New York’s Continued Growth as a Biotechnology Hub
Members Include Leaders from Business, Philanthropy and Research Institutions
Builds on Governor Hochul’s Commitment To Making New York a National Leader in Life Sciences, Innovation and Advanced Manufacturing
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced new members of the Emerging Technology Advisory Board focused on biotechnology, an independent group of industry leaders tasked with helping chart the course to further expand a thriving biotech ecosystem in New York State. The advisory board, co-chaired by Pfizer Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer Andrew Baum and The Michael J. Fox Foundation CEO and Co-Founder Debi Brooks, will help further the Governor’s commitment to making New York a national leader in life sciences, innovation and advanced manufacturing. The Board reflects New York’s vast leadership and experience, including established company leaders, research pioneers, non-profit leaders and industry practitioners who are actively shaping the future of biotech and the commercial life sciences in the state.
“New York State is a national leader in biotechnology with innovative research being conducted from Long Island to Buffalo,” Governor Hochul said. “Bringing together these industry leaders from all corners of the state will help expand our biotechnology ecosystem, ensuring New York is at the forefront of life sciences and medical innovation.”
Pfizer Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer Andrew Baum said, “New York is uniquely positioned to lead the next wave of biotech innovation. With world-class institutions, entrepreneurial energy, and a commitment to catalytic investment, we’re building a world-class ecosystem where breakthrough therapies are developed right here in the Empire State. Through strategic partnerships, we are confident New York can thrive and expand upon the strong foundation that exists today as the nation’s emerging global leader in life sciences innovation.”
The Michael J. Fox Foundation Co-Founder and CEO Debi Brooks said, “I’m honored to be appointed to co-chair New York’s Emerging Technology Advisory Board. Together, this Board has the chance to advance public–private partnerships across New York’s biotech sector and deliver breakthroughs that patients and families urgently deserve. At The Michael J. Fox Foundation, we’ve witnessed how strategic collaboration, emerging science and cutting-edge tools can help speed progress. I thank Governor Hochul for convening this group and prioritizing investment in life sciences. I look forward to joining my fellow members of the Board in shaping the future of biotechnology in New York State.”
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “New York State has become a powerhouse for innovation by bringing together world-class researchers, industry leaders, and forward-looking institutions. The creation of this Emerging Technology Advisory Board will further strengthen our life sciences ecosystem by ensuring that breakthrough ideas in biotechnology can be nurtured, commercialized, and scaled right here in New York. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, we are not only accelerating scientific discovery but also creating the jobs and opportunities that will define the future of our economy.”