Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick made quite a splash at the BIO International biotechnology convention held in Boston last week by announcing a $1.25 billion initiative to invest in biotech and stem cell research.
Officials from Rhode Island also took part in the event – albeit more quietly – promoting the Ocean State as a natural and nurturing environment for biotech operations.
Recent news out of Brown University and The Miriam Hospital offer an indication of the kind of important work that is already being done in this area. The two institutions have played a central role in the development of microbicides that, if successful, have the potential to dramatically reduce HIV infection around the world. Early safety studies were conducted on four topical gels, and three of those are now in clinical trials. One could reach the market as early as next year.
Speaking on a panel at the Boston convention, Rhode Island Gov. Donald L. Carcieri talked about the kinds of steps the state has taken to make it a good choice for biotech. He cited tax credits, work force development, a beefed-up school curriculum, the construction of a $60 million Center for Biotechnology and Life Sciences at URI, the establishment of the R.I. Science and Technology Advisory Council (STAC) and the R.I. WINS push to make Rhode Island the first entirely wireless state.
Just as important, for such a small state, Rhode Island has a tremendous concentration of creative minds and brilliant researchers. That’s good news for high-tech firms, and great news for the millions of people whose lives may be saved by the work they do.
