Educators looking to improve vocabulary and spelling skills of their students can find assistance through a new educational software program that provides individualized instruction.
CAL Tutor Vocabulary and Spelling™ allows teachers to individually design spelling and vocabulary lessons by adding, modifying or deleting words and lists from the program's 65 word themes.
Animation demystifies complex science; brings nanotechnology to life
Just as artists at Disney and Pixar Animation Studios bring Mickey Mouse, Shrek and Nemo to life, life science artists are using animation to bring viruses, bacteria and even nanowires to life and demystify scientific concepts.
Life science animators from Purdue Research Park-based Seyet LLC recently used their video talents to demonstrate how silicon nanowires form, a process that may change the way computers and consumer electronics are manufactured. Seyet's video provides people who don't have a medical or scientific background a "visual story" of how such complicated organisms or human-designed technologies operate.
Purdue Research Park-based company produces Chicago music festival
Officials of FanFound - a social networking site for musicians, music fans and music venues - are sponsoring and organizing the inaugural Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival.
The festival will be from noon until 11 p.m. Nov. 22 at Chicago's Congress Theater, 2135 N. Milwaukee Ave. Early bird general admission tickets to the festival are $31. Tickets are $35 the day of the festival. Tickets can be purchased at the Congress Theater box office or online at http://www.congresschicago.com or from Ticketmaster.com. Customers who use the online promotion code "FANFOUND" will receive a discount on the ticket price. A portion of the box office revenue will be donated to the Saving Tiny Hearts Foundation, a non-profit organization that raises money for research of congenital heart defects.
Purdue's Alfred Mann Institute provides seed funding for life science development projects
Early detection of breast cancer and the healing of tendon and ligament tears are two of the first four technologies to receive $375,000 in funding from the Alfred Mann Institute for Biomedical Development at Purdue University.
"Our mission is to support the commercialization of life science technologies created at Purdue that help mankind," said John C. Hertig, executive director of the $100 million Alfred Mann Institute for Biomedical Development (AMIPurdue). "We feel these technologies that are emerging from the discovery stage have the potential to make a significant contribution toward improving health care."
Purdue Research Foundation honors faculty entrepreneurs, inventors
The Purdue Research Foundation will honor 44 Purdue University faculty and staff at its annual Inventors' Recognition Dinner on Monday (Oct. 27) in the Purdue Memorial Ballrooms.
Honorees are being recognized for breakthroughs that have resulted, or may soon result, in commercial applications to benefit society.
Purdue Research Park-based company launches line of 4 milk products
Milk consumers can now purchase a brand of milk that provides beneficial nutrients through natural means.
FAVORED® Inc., a company based at the Purdue Research Park, launched a line of four milk products in Indiana and the Northeast region of the United States. The varieties of milk - whole, reduced fat, low fat and fat free - are sold in half-gallon cartons at participating Big Y World Class Markets, Dave's Marketplace stores and Roche Bros. supermarkets in the Northeast, and 15 participating Marsh Supermarkets in Indiana.
Purdue Research Foundation receives 3 international awards for economic development
The International Economic Development Council announced Tuesday (Oct. 21) that the Purdue Research Foundation has received three 2008 IEDC Excellence in Economic Development Awards.
The International Economic Development Council is the largest professional association of economic development practitioners in the world, with members in the United States, Europe, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and other nations.
Pharmacy professor honored for improving lives, creating jobs
Prescription drugs have improved in quality and high-paying jobs have been created, thanks in part to a Purdue University professor who is the 2008 recipient of the university's Outstanding Commercialization Award.
The award, sponsored by the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, is being presented to Stephen Byrn, the Charles B. Jordan Professor of Medicinal Chemistry. Byrn also is head of the Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy and co-founder and consultant for SSCI (Solid State Chemical Information) Inc., an Aptuit Company.
Purdue University leads the Big Ten in moving its discoveries from the laboratory to the marketplace, and with a new program and support of Purdue alumni, it stands to do even better.
"Not only is Purdue first in the Big Ten for filing patents and starting new companies, but we are third in the nation behind the University of California and the University of Utah for our respective technology transfer statistics" said Joseph B. Hornett, senior vice president, treasurer and COO of the Purdue Research Foundation, which oversees Purdue's Office of Technology Commercialization. "In 2007, Purdue had 10 startup companies based on Purdue University technologies. In 2006, we had 14 startup companies from discoveries made at Purdue.
Bioanalytical Systems Inc. reports earnings from continuing operations
Bioanalytical Systems Inc. (Nasdaq: BASI) reported financial results for its third quarter and nine months of fiscal 2008, ending June 30, 2008.
For continuing operations, revenue in the third quarter increased 5.4 percent to $11.4 million compared to $10.9 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2007. Net income from continuing operations for the third quarter was $407,000, or $0.08 per basic and diluted share, compared to net income of $567,000, or $0.12 and $0.11 per basic and diluted share, respectively, for the third quarter of fiscal 2007.
International Beryllium Corp. and Purdue University officials announced a collaborative prelicense agreement to develop a new type of fuel for nuclear reactors that is longer lasting and more efficient than current fuels.
The objective of the prelicense agreement is to support the development an enhanced beryllium oxide nuclear fuel for commercial use in current and future nuclear power reactors.
The Purdue Research Park on Friday (Aug. 1) presented college tuition vouchers to Indiana high school students who were among the top three finishers in the second annual Entrepreneurship Academy.
The vouchers, which were awarded during a luncheon in the South Ballroom of Purdue University's Memorial Union, ranged in amounts from $100 to $500 and can be used to offset the costs of higher education. Students participating in the academy were juniors and seniors from 17 counties.
Purdue Research Foundation announces 10 new companies formed from Purdue University discoveries
Purdue Research Foundation's Office of Technology Commercialization announced Friday (July 25) that 10 new startup companies were formed from Purdue University-licensed technologies.
The Office of Technology Commercialization reported that the companies were launched in the fiscal year running from July 2007 to June 2008. The office's technology transfer managers work with Purdue researchers in moving their discoveries into development and delivery through viable commercial enterprises. Most of the companies are in the fields of medical devices, life sciences, information technology, agriculture, advanced manufacturing, telecommunication and engineering design.
Purdue Research Park company combines streaming video with e-mail communication
With skyrocketing fuel costs affecting travel budgets, a company at Purdue Research Park has a solution that will help organizations operate worldwide without anyone having to leave home base.
CoVideo Systems provides face-to-face marketing and organizational tools through Web-based, streaming video products. In addition, the company employs a team of consultants that help clients put the technology to its best use.
Purdue's new fund will help startup companies commercialize research discoveries
Purdue Research Foundation and Purdue University officials announced Wednesday (July 2) a new philanthropic initiative that will provide financial support for startup companies to expedite moving research discoveries from the laboratory through development to commercial delivery.
The Emerging Innovations Fund will provide commercialization funding support for early-stage technologies through small, finite grants. The funds to support the venture are in the process of being raised privately and initial capitalization will be $1.5 million.
Officials from Purdue Research Park-based companies can get ideas and strategies on how to increase sales and profits during a July 22 workshop offered at Purdue University.
The "Bigger Profits through Targeted Sales" workshop is designed for entrepreneurs and business owners interested in creating and expanding their companies. The event will be held from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Dauch Alumni Center at 403 West Wood St. in West Lafayette, Ind.
BASi-Swiftwater Group Alliance Expands Contract Services
BASi (Bioanalytical Systems, Inc.) (Nasdaq: BASI) and Swiftwater Group LLC have announced an agreement to form an alliance that will complement and expand both firms' service offerings.
Swiftwater Group, which is headquartered in Tucson, brings its extensive product development, regulatory, project management and auditing experience to work with BASi's contract research services for the pharmaceutical industry.
Purdue will highlight life sciences teamwork at global BIO 2008
A delegation from Purdue's Discovery Park and the Purdue Research Park will join global leaders next week at the BIO 2008 International Convention, showcasing how they are working together at the state, national and international levels to help heal, fuel and feed the world.
Slated for June 17-20 at the San Diego Convention Center, the annual event, sponsored by the Biotechnology Industry Organization, is expected to draw 20,000 corporate executives, researchers, government officials and venture capitalists for three days of networking and learning.
Dedication, house blessing planned for Purdue Research Park companies' Habitat for Humanity project
The dream of having a home with a white picket fence will become reality for Lafayette resident Marjorie "Margie" Britton when the Purdue Research Park companies' Habitat for Humanity of Lafayette home is dedicated on Sunday (June 8).
The $40,000 West Lafayette home is the culmination of the combined efforts and contributions of volunteers from the Purdue Research Park and many park companies. Construction on the home began April 12.
BASi adds vice president of quality
BASi officials announce that Kathleen Hodges has joined the company in the new position of vice president of quality.Hodges will report directly to Richard Shepperd, president and CEO of BASi (Bioanalytical Systems Inc.). She will have corporatewide responsibility for all matters relating to quality and regulatory issues
New technology could help prevent fractures in horses
Researchers are developing a monitoring system similar to those used by earthquake seismologists to detect tiny cracks in bones, a technology that could help prevent fractures in humans and racehorses.The new monitoring system records "acoustic emission data," or sound waves created by the tiny bone fissures. The same sorts of acoustic emissions are used to monitor the integrity of bridges, other structures and mechanical parts like helicopter turbine blades, said Ozan Akkus, an associate professor in Purdue University's Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering.
Seyet officials open new office in San Francisco, add vice president of business development
Seyet LLC officials announced that they are opening a new division in San Francisco and have hired an on-site director to manage the office.
Skip Sanzeri of Hillsborough, Calif., has been named vice president of new business development for the area. The new office is at 5 Thomas Mellon Circle in San Francisco Executive Park, located near Candlestick Park.
Purdue purchasing director named minority business 'Champion'
Purdue Purchasing Services director Larry Pherson has received the Minority Small Business Champion of the Year award from the Indiana Small Business Administration.
Pherson, founder of the Lafayette Supplier Diversity Development Coalition, shares the award with coalition co-founder Bill Ensign, Lafayette purchasing leader for Eli LiIly and Co., for going beyond their professional responsibilities to advance minority small business interests within the community.
Life Plus announces new alliance that will create expanded services
Life Plus LLC, a Purdue Research Park-based company, has announced the formation of an alliance that will enhance the firm's international capabilities in toxicology testing.
Life Plus has formed an alliance with an Indian laboratory that brings a unique set of capabilities to clients involved in commercializing new chemical technologies in Europe and those eight countries with chemical control laws: United States, Canada, China, Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand and the Philippines.
'PRF DataStation' provides secure, expanded network of information technology services
Purdue Research Foundation officials announced Tuesday (May 20) a high-security "PRF DataStation" that will provide the necessary network of information technology needs for new and growing companies.
The energy-efficient center is a network carrier in a single location that provides fiber-optic connections where clients can lease cabinets or space within cabinets to house their network servers and other information technology equipment.
Designer aviation fuel may provide cleaner, greener, cheaper alternative
Swift Enterprises Ltd. has unveiled a new general aviation fuel that is less expensive, fuel-efficient and environmentally friendlier than any on the market, said co-founder John Rusek.
The general aviation industry includes all flights other than military and scheduled airline flights, both private and commercial. Data on Swift Enterprises' 100 percent renewable general aviation fuel was presented April 28 at an annual meeting of an international committee that oversees aviation fuel standards. Unlike current biomass fuels, SwiftFuel is comprised of synthetic hydrocarbons derived from biomass. Rusek said it can provide an effective range (distance between refueling) greater than petroleum while its projected cost is half the current petroleum manufacturing cost.
Purdue Research Foundation officials announce statewide technology centers director
Purdue Research Foundation officials announced that John M. Hanak will serve as director for the Purdue Research Park's four statewide technology centers.
The Indiana centers in operation or under construction are the Purdue Technology Center of West Lafayette, located in the Purdue Research Park; the Purdue Technology Center of Northwest Indiana in Merrillville; the Purdue Technology Center of Southeast Indiana in New Albany; and the Purdue Technology Center of Indianapolis. The centers offer space for new and expanding companies and provide business acceleration programs, leasing plans, conference rooms and human resources, and media relations and marketing assistance. Hanak begins his new responsibilities immediately.
Three companies based on Purdue research to explore venture capital opportunities in Silicon Valley
Three Indiana companies launched from research developed at Purdue University have won the opportunity to make formal presentations for funding from venture capital firms in Silicon Valley in mid May.
Moerae Matrix LLC, Kylin Therapeutics Inc., and Events 180° LLC were picked from several businesses that participated in the Fund Raising Boot Camp last October at Discovery Park's Burton D. Morgan Center for Entrepreneurship. Through their selection, camp sponsor Lonergan Partners will finance transportation and other arrangements for the trip to California on May 12-14.
Findings a step toward making new optical materials
Chemical engineers have developed a "self-assembling" method that could lead to an inexpensive way of making diamondlike crystals to improve optical communications and other technologies.
The method, developed at Purdue University, works by positioning tiny particles onto a silicon template containing precisely spaced holes that are about one-hundredth the width of a human hair. The template is immersed in water on top of which particles are floating, and the particles automatically fill in the holes as the template is lifted.
Chao Center quality assurance director appointed to U.S. Pharmacopeia Expert Committee
Joseph G. Stowell of the Chao Center for Industrial Pharmacy & Contract Manufacturing has been appointed to serve on the U.S. Pharmacopeia Expert Committee for Monograph Development: Ophthalmology, Oncology, and Dermatology.
Stowell is the Chao Center's quality assurance director and an adjunct assistant professor in Purdue University's School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. He taught at the university for more than 20 years. He was responsible for the undergraduate teaching laboratories in the school for organic, analytical and the integrated laboratory series, as well as writing the laboratory manuals used in those courses. Stowell received his doctorate in organic chemistry from the University of California at Davis.
Simulex celebrates open house with expansion, announcement of two separate divisions
Simulex Inc. will celebrate an open house Thursday (April 17) at its newly expanded headquarters in the Purdue Research Park where officials will announce the company's two new divisions.
The company is now divided into Simulex Federal and Simulex Global divisions.
Murphy Cancer Foundation program gives veterinarians insight on improving the lives of aging pets
The Gerald P. Murphy Cancer Foundation will hold the first training program of its kind to help veterinarians understand how aging affects dogs and cats.
Just as humans are living longer and more productive lives today, dogs and cats also are living longer. Recent consumer research indicates that a top desire for pet owners is to maximize the healthy lifespan of their companion animals.
Groundbreaking scheduled for Purdue Research Park companies' Habitat for Humanity project
Construction on the Purdue Research Park companies' Habitat for Humanity of Lafayette home will begin Saturday (April 12) when park officials and company representatives break ground on the West Lafayette site of the $40,000 structure.
"This project is truly a joint effort among the Purdue Research Park and park-based companies," said Gregory W. Deason, vice president of development for the Purdue Research Foundation and director of the Purdue Research Park. "We were approached by some park company representatives about pooling our resources to build a home for someone, and we began a volunteer effort with foundation employees to coordinate the fundraising."
Purdue Technology Center, Quadraspec finalists in separate categories for two international awards
The National Business Incubation Association named the Purdue Technology Center and Quadraspec Inc. as finalists for two international awards at its annual nominations meeting in Athens, Ohio.
The Purdue Technology Center is a 2008 Outstanding Incubator of the Year Award finalist and Quadraspec is a 2008 Outstanding Incubator Graduate Award finalist. The winners will be announced May 6 at the organization's 22nd International Conference on Business Incubation in San Antonio.
Purdue Research Park breaks ground, announces gift for new tech center
The Purdue Research Park broke ground Monday (April 7) on a nearly 13-acre expansion for which the wife of a Purdue University alumnus has donated $3 million to help fund a new technology center.
The deferred gift from Heddy Kurz of Louisville will be applied toward construction of Purdue Research Park's $14.5 million Purdue Technology Center II building, which will be located at 1280 Win Hentschel Blvd. The center will support about 275 jobs and 26 companies. The average annual wage of employees working in the park is $52,000.
Student, faculty entrepreneurs elevate their sales pitch to victory
A Purdue University senior in health sciences and a graduate student seeking his MBA beat out 30 other competitors Friday (March 28) at the second annual Purdue University Elevator Pitch Competition.
John Mullen, of Dayton, Ohio, won the student competition for the best two-minute sales pitch for his company EcoDisc Inc., which is developing a biodegradable shooting target.
Quadraspec, TriMedx partner in strategic service initiative
TriMedx, a national leader in health-care equipment services, and Quadraspec, an emerging diagnostics platform company based in Purdue Research Park, announced Wednesday (March 19) a strategic service relationship in the life sciences industry.
Both Indiana-based firms are past recipients of Techpoint's MIRA award and are recognized as innovation leaders in their industries.
Quadraspec receives USDA product license for canine heartworm test
Quadraspec Inc. announced Wednesday (March 19) that it will launch its first licensed product, the Canine Heartworm Antigen Test Kit, after receiving a key regulatory approval earlier this year from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The Canine Heartworm Antigen Test Kit is an immunoassay designed to directly detect the presence of the heartworm antigen. Heartworms are parasitic worms that live in the right ventricle of the heart and nearby blood vessels. The parasites are transmitted from one animal to another by mosquitoes. In 2004 more than 250,000 domesticated animals contracted heartworm in the United States, with the states of Florida and Texas reporting the highest incidence, according to the American Heartworm Society.
Indiana Companies to Watch program will recognize state's top second-stage companies
Nominations are now being accepted for the first Indiana Companies to Watch awards program to determine the most promising growth-oriented companies around the state.
Purdue University is partnering with the Indiana governor's office, Indiana Economic Development Corp. and its Small Business Development Center Network, KeyBank in Central Indiana, and the Edward Lowe Foundation for the inaugural awards. The first group of winners will be announced Aug. 28 during a recognition ceremony at the Indiana Roof Ballroom in Indianapolis.
Nominations are being accepted for the Purdue Research Park's second annual summer academy, which allows Indiana high school juniors and seniors to participate in entrepreneurship-based opportunities and gain real-world business experiences.
"Last year was the inaugural Entrepreneurship Academy, and the response from participants and teachers was so positive that we are expanding the program to include students from around the state," said Joseph B. Hornett, senior vice president, treasurer and COO of the Purdue Research Foundation, which manages the Purdue Research Park.
Medical developer opens expanded R&D center at Purdue Research Park
Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman and officials from the Purdue Research Park joined biotechnology developer MED Institute on Friday (Feb. 29) to announce the opening of the company's expanded research and development center here, which is expected to employ more than 250 people by 2011.
MED Institute, the product development subsidiary of Bloomington, Ind.-based Cook Medical, made the announcement from its newly renovated 92,000-square-foot development center located in the former Great Lakes Corp. headquarters.
Indy's FAST Diagnostics takes first in Purdue life sciences competition
Indianapolis-based FAST Diagnostics took top honors and $50,000 in cash and services on Thursday (Feb. 28) in Purdue University's Life Sciences Business Plan Competition. The competition, now in its fifth year, attracted 42 entrants. Judges advanced 21 of those to the business plan phase in which firms provided detailed roadmaps for moving products and technologies from concept and prototype stage to commercialization. Lilly Endowment was the lead sponsor for the event, which was coordinated by Purdue's Burton D. Morgan Center for Entrepreneurship.
Purdue Research Foundation official to speak to northern Kentucky, southern Indiana business leaders
A Purdue Research Foundation official will talk to southern Indiana and northern Kentucky business leaders Wednesday (March 5) about a Purdue Research Park initiative and its new facility in southeast Indiana.
Joseph B. Hornett, Purdue Research Foundation senior vice president, treasurer and COO, will speak at the Venture Club of Louisville's luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Galt House in Louisville. Nonmembers can attend the luncheon at a cost of $35. For more information, visit http://www.ventureclub-louisville.org or call (502) 598-6868.
International technology company to open new software center in Purdue Research Park
Gov. Mitch Daniels joined executives from global technology giant EDS (NYSE:EDS) and officials from Purdue Research Park on Thursday (Feb. 21) to announce the company's plans to locate its national software solution center here, creating more than 200 software engineer and business analyst positions by 2010.
The technology developer has already committed to lease 13,000 square feet in an office building in the Purdue Research Park and hired more than a dozen professionals. Officials of the Purdue Research Park said a new 78,000-square-foot structure, called Innovation Center, will be constructed. EDS will occupy 45,000 square feet of the new facility, which is slated to open in early 2009.
Biotechnology Developer Grows its Purdue Research Park Operation
Kylin Therapeutics, a developer of cancer and disease fighting biotechnology, announced today it has doubled its workforce and outside investment in its operations with the help of Indiana’s 21st Century Research and Technology Fund.
The state awarded the biotech company a $250,000 grant to further develop and commercialize Purdue University technology that allows doctors to target drug delivery for treatment of diseases ranging from AIDS to cancer.
Video showcases interdisciplinary research successes at Purdue's Discovery Park
Purdue's Discovery Park, which has grown into a $375 million hub for interdisciplinary research in just five years, has produced a new video outlining its successes and how the park is helping reinvent the 21st century research university.
The 10-minute video highlights Purdue's interdisciplinary projects in nanotechnology, cancer, alternative energy, entrepreneurship, health-care engineering, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, the environment, cyberinfrastructure, innovative learning and homeland security.
Former Purdue Agriculture Dean Earl Butz dead at 98
Former Secretary of Agriculture and dean of Purdue University's College of Agriculture Earl Butz, died overnight in his sleep in Washington, D.C. He was 98 years old.
Endocyte secures $15 million venture debt facility
Endocyte, Inc. announced today (Friday, Jan. 25) that it has secured a venture debt facility of $15 million through Oxford Finance Corp. and GE Healthcare Financial Services acting as agent.
"This funding enhances our financial flexibility and enables us to even more effectively advance our pipeline of proprietary receptor targeting products," said Mike Sherman, chief financial officer at Endocyte. "The addition of non-dilutive, venture debt financing represents an especially attractive complement to Endocyte?s existing capital structure
ICx Technologies completes initial stock sale to the public
Officials of Griffin Analytical Technologies are pleased to announce that its parent company, ICx Technologies, is now trading on NASDAQ under the symbol "ICXT," following the initial public offering on Nov. 8.
Griffin Analytical, a wholly owned subsidiary of ICx Technologies since 2005, is based at the Purdue Research Park in West Lafayette, Ind. Griffin Analytical was founded in late 2001, secured Series A funding in 2003 and was acquired by ICx in late 2005. Operating as part of the Detection Division within ICx, Griffin provides premium class, on-site chemical detection products focused the security and environmental monitoring markets.
Report provides blueprint for cancer prevention research
A scientific report published this month provides a blueprint to revolutionize the future of cancer prevention research.
Until now, most research on how to prevent cancer has provided information about the average person - nothing tailored for the individual.
Cell phone sensors detect radiation to thwart nuclear terrorism
Researchers at Purdue University are working with the state of Indiana to develop a system that would use a network of cell phones to detect and track radiation to help prevent terrorist attacks with radiological "dirty bombs" and nuclear weapons.
Such a system could blanket the nation with millions of cell phones equipped with radiation sensors able to detect even light residues of radioactive material. Because cell phones already contain global positioning locators, the network of phones would serve as a tracking system, said physics professor Ephraim Fischbach. Fischbach is working with Jere Jenkins, director of Purdue's radiation laboratories within the School of Nuclear Engineering.
Endocyte Inc. announced Tuesday (Jan. 15) that it has entered into an exclusive license agreement with R&D Biopharmaceuticals for the use of tubulysin anticancer agents with Endocyte's proprietary drug conjugate platform.
Tubulysins are a new class of natural, highly potent investigational anticancer agents shown to destabilize microtubules and induce cell death. The agreement resulted from an existing research collaboration between the two companies to develop folate-tubulysin conjugates for the treatment of cancer.
Endocyte announces achievement of milestone in collaboration with Bristol-Myers Squibb
Endocyte Inc. announces its right to receive a milestone payment from Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (NYSE: BMY), triggered by the commencement of a Phase 1 clinical trial for a folate-epothilone chemotherapeutic agent.
The agent resulted from a collaborative research effort between the two companies and is subject to a licensing agreement announced early in 2006. Bristol-Myers Squibb is responsible for all development, manufacturing, registration and marketing of the folate-epothilone chemotherapeutic agent.
Endocyte to present at 26th annual JPMorgan Healthcare Conference
Endocyte Inc., a privately-held biotechnology company developing receptor-targeted therapeutics, announced Friday (Jan. 4) that it will be presenting at the 26th annual JPMorgan Healthcare Conference, which will take place at the Westin St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco.
Ron Ellis, Endocyte president and CEO, will present an overview of the company's development program and clinical pipeline at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday (Jan. 9) in the Elizabethan C/D Room.
Purdue Research Park company commercializing method to improve early cancer diagnosis
A new Purdue University-licensed technology to improve early cancer diagnosis is being developed by MatrixBio LLC, a Purdue Research Park company.
The company has just received seed round funding from the Main Street Venture Fund, located in Fort Wayne, Ind., which will allow the company to further develop its diagnostic tests and to proceed with its second phase of clinical trials. Main Street Venture Fund is part of Ruffolo Benson LLC, a private equity firm in Indiana.
New smart tire senses damage, increases safety
A new type of "smart" tire developed by a Purdue University professor is able to sense damage when a tire goes flat or loses treads, making it safer for road travel.
The tire's technology also can be used to detect impending defects before a tire is mass produced. A team led by Gary W. Krutz, director of Purdue's Electrohydraulic Center and a professor of agricultural and biological engineering, has developed a tire system that senses failures in real time. The concept behind the technology is that the entire tire acts as a sensor that sends information to onboard computers.
Zeeko Technologies LLC, a Purdue Research Park-based company, announced that its sister company, Zeeko Ltd., was awarded a $5 million contract to develop a component to be used on the world's largest telescope.
The component, a polishing machine, will be used to finish the mirrors for the European Southern Observatory's Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT) project. The observatory is a proposed member to operate a new generation of astronomical telescopes, envisioned to dwarf the world's largest telescopes.
Chandra Lovejoy Joins Endocyte as Director of Regulatory Affairs
Endocyte Inc. announced Monday (Dec. 17) the appointment of Chandra Lovejoy to the position of director, regulatory affairs.
Lovejoy comes to Endocyte from Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, Calif., where she was most recently a manager of regulatory affairs. In this role, she provided regulatory leadership to support the development of key oncology programs, including strategy for registration trials, formal FDA meetings and regulatory submissions, among other responsibilities.
Purdue center takes on North American battle against multidrug-resistant tuberculosis
Multidrug- resistant tuberculosis has a new challenger, a center in the Purdue Research Park that on Tuesday (Dec. 11) became the sole North American producer of a potent antibiotic.
The drug, Seromycin, had been developed earlier by Eli Lilly and Co., which, in turn, gave the park's Chao Center for Industrial Pharmacy & Contract Manufacturing the exclusive rights to manufacture, distribute and sell the drug.
Director named for Purdue's $100 million Alfred Mann Institute for Biomedical Development
A former president and CEO of an international producer of medical devices will serve as the executive director of the Alfred Mann Institute for Biomedical Development at Purdue University.
Purdue and Purdue Research Foundation officials announced Friday (Nov. 30) that John C. Hertig, the former president and CEO of Enpath Medical Inc. in Minneapolis, will be the institute's inaugural executive director. The Purdue engineering alumnus begins his duties on Monday (Dec. 3).
Purdue awards Order of Griffin to WL mayor
Purdue University on Tuesday (Nov. 27) presented West Lafayette Mayor Jan Mills with the Order of the Griffin, one of the university's highest honors.
Purdue Research Park company to be featured on History Channel
Cook Biotech Inc., a company at the Purdue Research Park, will be featured in a History Channel "Modern Marvels" episode, entitled "The Pig," at 8 p.m. Eastern time on Tuesday (Nov. 27) and at midnight Wednesday (Nov. 28).
Cook Biotech produces a regenerative tissue graft called Surgisis Biodesign. The material's medical applications were discovered initially in the 1980s by a research team led by Leslie Geddes, Purdue's Showalter Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Biomedical Engineering.
First Precision LLC, a Northwest Indiana Purdue Research Parks company, received the grand prize and a Purdue University professor received the Most Innovative New Product Award during the 2007 Venture Idol competition in Indianapolis.
Robert McShane, president and CEO of First Precision, said his company was ranked first by a voting audience and by judges composed of company owners and venture capitalists.
Purdue Research Park receives 'tech park' recertification from state
Officials from the Purdue Research Park and the city of West Lafayette announced Monday (Nov. 5) that the Indiana Economic Development Corp. has recertified the Purdue Research Park as a state Certified Technology Park.
The Purdue Research Park was designated as the state's first Certified Technology Park in 2003. The recertification was announced by Joseph B. Hornett, senior vice president, treasurer and COO of the Purdue Research Foundation, and West Lafayette Mayor Jan H. Mills.
Purdue, community officials celebrate opening of new MRI center to focus on patient care, research
About 150 people gathered Friday (Nov. 2) to celebrate the dedication of the LakeView Technology Center, a building that will provide space for a high-powered magnetic resonance imaging facility to be used for patient care and research.
The 7,800-square-foot MRI center, called InnerVision West, provides a 3-Tesla MRI scanner that offers enhanced resolution over conventional 1.5-Tesla MRI scanners. It is the first machine of this field strength in north-central Indiana.
Recognizing an opportunity to advance Indiana's drug development and manufacturing strengths, BioCrossroads and leaders from Cook Medical, Indiana's Department of Workforce Development, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, Ivy Tech Community College, and Purdue University, today announced the launch of BioCrossroadsLINX, a non-profit organization building educational and workforce development programs and regional collaborations that will help Indiana's biopharma assets ? our companies, our people, and our institutions connect with biotech discovery centers such as San Diego, San Francisco and Boston.
Outsourcing specific drug discovery and development services is a growing trend in both the biotech and pharmaceutical industries. As a result, there are opportunities for Indiana companies to capitalize on rising demand and to build upon existing strengths. Indiana is one of only a few areas in the United States with a concentration of companies that excel in specialized and sophisticated drug development services such as contract research, contract manufacturing, and logistics. Through these 40+ companies and nearly 7,500 employees, Indiana is uniquely positioned to support both large pharma organizations and smaller biotech companies.
Purdue Research Park official elected to key position of international research parks organization
Two Purdue Research Park officials will speak during a conference for the Association of University Research Parks, and one official has been elected to serve as the organization's first vice president.
The election took place Tuesday (Oct. 23) prior to the annual conference, which will run Wednesday through Friday (Oct. 24-26) in St. Louis.
Bioanalytical Systems now selling large-volume fraction collector
Bioanalytical Systems Inc., or BASi, is now offering a large-volume fraction collector, a medical device for sampling blood and bile in animals.
The Culex Automated In Vivo Sampling System is designed for use on animals such as Guinea pigs. It collects volumes from 50 microliters to 800 microliters, holds up to 26 samples and refrigerates them at 4 degrees centigrade. The system works with most Sarstedt and Grainer vials and is a direct switch with BASi's smaller fraction collector that is used with small animals, such as mice and rats.
Founder of a Purdue Technology Center-based company named Society of Innovators fellow
Ivan Nesch, the founder of Nesch LLC at the Purdue Technology Center of Northwest Indiana, has been named an innovation fellow by the Society of Innovators.
Nesch was one of six fellows and 23 new members inducted into the society during the Third Annual Society of Innovators awards ceremony on Thursday (Oct. 18) in Gary, Ind. The Society of Innovators recognizes inventors whose innovations benefit the Northwest Indiana region. The organization represents Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Jasper, Pulaski, Newton and Starke counties.
An official from the Purdue Research Foundation will speak during a panel discussion at the Fifth Annual Tech Transfer and Early Stage Investing Conference taking place Wednesday and Thursday (Oct. 17-18) at Boston University.
The conference, which is sponsored by the International Business Forum, is focused on starting, building and financing technology-based projects and spinouts from universities, national labs and corporations. The forum is the leading presenter of venture capital and private equity conferences in the United States.
Technical Assistance Program to expand energy efficiency services
The Purdue University Technical Assistance Program has received a $200,000 grant from the Indiana Office of Energy & Defense Development to continue its Energy Efficiency Services initiative, a program that helps Indiana companies reduce energy consumption.
The initiative supports the state's Hoosier Homegrown Energy Plan by assisting companies in reducing the use of electricity and natural gas. Purdue's program offers companies savings opportunity analysis, technology awareness, and energy efficiency training and implementation services.
Military families to benefit from Lilly Endowment, Purdue partnership
An $8.9 million gift from Lilly Endowment will help a Purdue University institute reach out to military families across the nation and serve as a model for others.
The gift to Purdue's Military Family Research Institute, the only one of its kind in the country, is designed to help military families better adapt to the challenges of repeated deployments and the stresses of raising and connecting with their children during wartime.
Imaginestics LLC to receive small business technology award from national association
Imaginestics LLC will receive a 2007 Tibbetts Award from the Small Business Technology Council on Oct. 10 in Washington, D.C., for its work in developing the first online visual search engine for manufacturing.
Imaginestics, which is based at the Purdue Research Park in West Lafayette, Ind., is one of 55 companies to receive the Tibbetts Award and was selected from more than 4,000 nominees. The complete list of winners is available online at http://www.tibbettsawards.org.
Kylin Therapeutics signs collaboration with Fort Dodge Animal Health, a Division of Wyeth
Kylin Therapeutics, Inc., a biotechnology company, announced it has signed a collaboration with Fort Dodge Animal Health, a division of Wyeth (NYSE:WYE), to develop new RNAi therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. Under the terms of the three-year contract, Kylin will receive research funding, milestone payments and royalties.
Under this contract, Kylin will use its patented RNA nanoparticle technology called "pRNA" to explore the enormous potential of RNA interference (RNAi) and develop new RNA-based therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. In return for its participation in this effort, Fort Dodge will receive an exclusive license to the pRNA/RNAi therapeutic compounds for the treatment of cancers in companion animals. Kylin will retain rights to the therapies for human use.
Purdue, S. Korean team plans symposium on nanomedicine project
Research teams from Purdue University and the Korean Institute of Science and Technology will lead a symposium Sept. 14 to focus on their $4.5 million project to develop molecular imaging and nanotechnology tools for simultaneously diagnosing and treating cancer and chronic and infectious diseases.
Twenty South Korean researchers will travel to the Purdue campus for the Discovery Park symposium, Molecular Imaging and Theragnosis, which will be highlighted by presentations from the project's leading researchers.
The senior vice president of the Purdue Research Foundation and the dean of the Purdue College of Technology will speak to southern Indiana and northern Kentucky business leaders about the growing investment of the new accelerator park and Purdue's expanded educational programs in New Albany, Ind.
Joseph B. Hornett, Purdue Research Foundation senior vice president, treasurer and COO, and Dennis R. Depew, dean of the Purdue College of Technology, will speak at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 6 at Kye's at Watertower Square in Jeffersonville, Ind.
Purdue Research Park executive to speak in Indianapolis on technology parks
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - A Purdue University Research Park official will speak at the Crossroads Kiwanis Club on Wednesday (Aug. 29) in Indianapolis about the park's role and its contribution across the state.
Timothy Peoples, director of the Purdue Technology Centers, will present some key information about centers including:
Purdue Research Park to feature new MRI center for patient care, research
A building under construction in the Purdue Research Park will provide space for a high-powered magnetic resonance imaging center that will be used for patient care as well as research.
The 26,000-square-foot LakeView Technology Center, 3482 McClure Ave, is located in the Purdue Research Park's Phase II development on a 3.86-acre site just south of Kalberer Road. The 7,800-square-foot MRI center, called InnerVision West, is on the north end of the structure. The building also will house a restaurant, coffee shop and a growing high-tech company. A dedication of the new building is planned for Nov. 2.
Purdue Research Park announces awards for Entrepreneurship Academy
The Purdue Research Park presented college tuition vouchers on Friday (Aug. 3) to Indiana high school students who were among the top three finishers in the inaugural Entrepreneurship Academy.
The vouchers, which were awarded during a luncheon in Purdue University?s Hillenbrand Hall, ranged in the amounts of $100 to $500, and can be used to offset the costs of higher education. Students participating in the academy were juniors and seniors from 13 Indiana counties.
Jay T. Akridge appointed interim vice provost for engagement
A Purdue agricultural economist on Friday (July 27) was named as the university's interim vice provost for engagement.
Jay T. Akridge, the James and Lois Ackerman Professor of Agricultural Economics and director of the Center for Food and Agricultural Business, will begin his duties Aug. 1, said interim Provost Victor L. Lechtenberg.
Purdue announces new Indianapolis-based accelerator park
The Purdue Research Foundation announced Thursday (June 28) that it will establish an Indianapolis- based technology park that will help high-tech entrepreneurs create new businesses and promote the expansion of established companies.
The new Purdue Research Park at AmeriPlex-Indianapolis, which is being created in partnership with Holladay Properties Inc., will accommodate up to 75 businesses and create 1,500 jobs with an average annual salary of $54,000. The park will be located along the I-70 corridor and near the midfield terminal of the Indianapolis International Airport.
Research finds evidence tropical cyclones have climate-control role
Purdue University researchers have found evidence that tropical cyclones and hurricanes play an important role in the ocean circulation patterns that transport heat and maintain the climate of North America and Europe.
These findings support a 2001 theory by Kerry Emanuel, a professor of atmospheric science at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and suggest that there is an additional factor to be included in climate models that may change predictions of future climate scenarios.
Chao Center joins Eli Lilly in the fight against multidrug-resistant tuberculosis
The Chao Center for Industrial Pharmacy & Contract Manufacturing in the Purdue Research Park will become the sole U.S. provider of an Eli Lilly and Co. pharmaceutical drug that will help fight MDR-TB, or multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.
The agreement, announced Wednesday (May 16), states that the Chao Center will gain exclusive rights to manufacture, distribute and sell the multidrug-resistant tuberculosis drug Seromycin. The drug will be made available to consumers in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Purdue dedicates $12.4 million Mann Hall in Discovery Park
Purdue University on Tuesday (May 15) marked the completion of Gerald D. and Edna E. Mann Hall, a $12.4 million facility for Discovery Park research centers focused on health-care engineering, advanced manufacturing, cancer detection and treatment, systems analysis, and homeland security.
A dedication ceremony took place at Mann Hall, 203 S. Intramural Drive, on the southwest edge of campus.
Companies reap venture capital connections from Discovery Park entrepreneurship boot camp
Three Indiana companies formed from research developed at Purdue University will make formal pitches for funding from Silicon Valley venture capital firms in California this week (May 14-21).
M4 Sciences Corp., MatrixBio LLC and BioVitesse Inc. were selected in March by camp sponsor Lonergan Partners after the Fundraising Boot Camp at Discovery Park's Burton D. Morgan Center for Entrepreneurship.
New visualization service to enhance Purdue faculty grant proposals
Purdue Research Park-based Seyet LLC is joining forces with two Purdue University centers -- the Discovery Learning Center and the Envision Center for Data Perceptualization - to help scientists communicate their ideas through research-based computer visualizations.
"As scientific research becomes increasingly complex, it becomes critical to clearly communicate the results of this research in order to inform the public and facilitate the adoption of these discoveries into our lives," said Jon Kevan, director of research and design for Seyet LLC ("Seyet"), which is a visual communication provider for advanced life sciences companies.
Students, entrepreneurs compete to elevate business ventures
The Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation Program will hold an Elevator Pitch Competition from 3-5 p.m. April 13 in Room 121 of the Burton D. Morgan Center for Entrepreneurship in Purdue's Discovery Park.
Participants will give a two-minute "pitch" quickly describing their entrepreneurial business venture to a panel of judges. The competition is named for the way in which a concept would be presented to a potential financier on an elevator.
Startups win chance to meet with venture capital firms
Three Indiana companies formed from research developed at Purdue University have won the opportunity to make formal presentations for funding from venture capital firms in Silicon Valley.
M4 Sciences Corp., MatrixBio LLC, and BioVitesse Inc. were picked from several businesses that participated in the Fund Raising Boot Camp last fall at Discovery Park's Burton D. Morgan Center for Entrepreneurship. Camp sponsor Lonergan Partners selected the three winners in connection with the recent EntrepreneurshipWeek USA events on the Purdue campus.
The Mann Foundation for Biomedical Engineering has announced a $100 million gift to endow an Alfred Mann Institute at Purdue University.
The university-based institute is designed to enable the commercialization of innovative biomedical technologies that improve human health. The announcement was made during a joint news conference on Friday (March 16) at Purdue's Biomedical Engineering Building in Discovery Park.
M4 Sciences wins Burton D. Morgan business plan competition
A team that develops advanced manufacturing technologies for biomedical, aeronautical and military markets and a startup company that created an online calendar for arts and music took the top prizes Thursday (Feb. 22) in Purdue University's 20th annual Burton D. Morgan Entrepreneurial Competition.