Life Science Innovation Northwest 2025

Cell and gene therapies represent the cutting edge of medical innovation, yet their journey from academic science to the commercial marketplace often takes a decade and demands substantial investment. This panel will discuss the current challenges and future state of these groundbreaking treatments, exploring the evolution of cell and gene therapies, the complex financial and logistical hurdles to patient access, and how these therapies are advancing toward broader availability. With Washington state at the forefront of pioneering research and development, the conversation will highlight the region’s critical role in driving progress and expanding access to these life-changing therapies.

Two MedTech leaders reflect on the evolution of lifesaving technology in this fireside chat exploring the past, present, and future of the industry. Richard Fabian, President & CEO of FUJIFILM Sonosite, joins Brian Webster, President & CEO of Kestra Medical Technologies, whose recent IPO marks a major milestone in a career that includes leading Physio-Control and launching Kestra’s advanced cardiac monitoring system. Together, they’ll share insights from decades of innovation and building successful MedTech companies in the Pacific Northwest.

The current early-stage investment landscape is stressful, challenging, and downright ugly, but startups are still securing funding. Learn from top investors about the strategies and funding sources that are working in today’s market. This panel will provide practical insights on how life science founders can navigate investor expectations, stand out in a competitive field, and maximize their chances of success. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable advice from industry experts on not just surviving but thriving in today’s volatile fundraising environment.

Washington state has long been a top hub for groundbreaking research, home to world-class institutions and visionary leaders driving innovation across the life sciences. This discussion will feature distinguished voices from leading research institutions and key figures shaping the future of scientific discovery. Panelists will highlight historic advancements founded in Washington that have changed the world, examine the power of collaboration, and explore opportunities for our research institutions to work with industry on a new generation of collaborations that will keep our region at the forefront of life science leadership. The panel will be followed by breakout sessions where attendees can explore potential collaborations with our leading research institutions. Additionally, the panel will address current policy changes and how they may impact the future of life sciences in Washington.

The Institute for Protein Design (IPD) at the University of Washington has redefined the boundaries of science and innovation, from groundbreaking AI advancements to the first computationally designed protein medicine. With ten spinouts raising over $1B, IPD’s work drives innovation and continues to solidify Washington as a top life sciences hub in the US. During this panel, hear leaders from IPD spinouts explore the institute’s legacy of innovation, its role in propelling the state’s life sciences industry, and the breakthroughs driving the next wave of scientific and entrepreneurial success.

Join our expert panel as we assess the current investment climate in life sciences. It’s been a tough couple years with both investment climate and policy challenges ahead. This discussion will dive deep into the opportunities and challenges that companies faces as they seek new funding in the current market. Panelists will discuss how they see capital market conditions, regulatory uncertainly, as well as new drug pricing policies and tariffs impacting the dealmaking environment going forward. Designed for both emerging and established companies, this session will provide actionable insights to help you navigate today’s fundraising environment.