Bio3 – Biomedicine, Bioinformatics and Biotechnology Forum: Fostering Collaboration in Industry and Academia

In September 2023, BioInnovation Greece NPO held its first "Bio3" conference, titled “Biomedicine, Bioinformatics, and Biotechnology Forum: Fostering Collaboration in Industry and Academia,” at the Technopolis City of Athens with the participation of leading researchers, innovative biotech startups, and key figures from the pharmaceutical industry and investment sector. The Forum, which was supported, among others, by the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation, aimed to enhance and promote scientific research and entrepreneurship in biotechnology, boost networking and collaboration, and develop innovative solutions to address current global challenges.

Within the framework of the Forum, the latest scientific advancements and the boundless possibilities that AI presents to transform biomedicine and advance human health were presented (e.g., the use of Artificial Intelligence to develop new drugs and therapies), business executives shared success their stories, as well as the challenges they faced in the biotechnology sector, while venture capitalists discussed emerging opportunities for start-ups in the field. The Forum was co-organized by BioInnovation Greece, Athens LifeTech Park, and MicroBiomeTimes in collaboration with Endeavor Greece and Mikrobiokosmos, with the ultimate goal of bridging the academic, research, and business communities, creating a space for meeting and exchanging ideas.

• The Forum was attended by a total of 168 people, including 48 students, 13 postdoctoral researchers, 66 scientists, 20 university faculty members, and 21 representatives from the industry sector.
• During the Forum, 38 presentations and 4 roundtable discussions took place.

“The support from prominent players in the AI and Pharma industries along with esteemed foundations such as the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation played a pivotal role in the success of the ‘Bio3’ conference. This coalition of supporters enabled the ‘Bio3’ organisers to significantly reduce the registration fees, making the event accessible to a broader audience, particularly benefiting students. Furthermore, this support facilitated the provision of multiple awards for outstanding student posters, fostering an environment of encouragement and recognition for emerging scientists and researchers. Such contributions not only underline the commitment of these organisations to advancing scientific education and innovation but also help cultivate the next generation of leaders in biomedicine, bioinformatics, and biotechnology.”

Nikos Kyrpides

Biologist – Researcher

Head of Microbiome Data Science, Joint Genome Institute

Conference Chair, “Bio3” Forum