BioNext
Breakthrough Starts Here

How cell therapies are revolutionizing patients’ treatment.

Full schedule Our Workshops
why join BioNext

Not just a conference

Join us for the opening track of the event, known as BioNext, a dynamic one-day event hosted by Taranto Biotech Days on October 11. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the city of Taranto, Italy, this gathering promises an inspiring convergence of minds of the Biotech Industry. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious newcomer, BioNext offers a unique opportunity to explore the latest advancements, network with Industry Leaders, and engage in thought-provoking discussions. Don't miss out on this chance to be at the forefront of Biotech Innovation in a vibrant and historic setting.

Networking

Expand your professional network, forge new connections; potentially find new partners, job opportunities, or committee members.

Personal Development

Acquire new skills, perspectives, and insights to foster both personal and professional growth.

New Horizons

Explore new research areas, step beyond your comfort zone, and embrace innovative ideas.

Main Schedule

Discuss with Researchers, Scientists and Entrepreneurs on future of cell therapies

Choose your room and enjoy the conference.

8:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Biotechnology: the Future Starts with You

@ Abraham Abe, University of Bari
@ Gian Maria Velardi, EPFL
@ Giancarlo Romiti, Trinity College
@ Elena Bascone, Women&Tech®ETS
@ Alessia Soru, Women&Tech®ETS
@ Lorenzo Tarricone, ETH
@ Emma Prevot, Oxford University
@ Nuofan Gao, Sant'Anna University
@ Francesca Mussa, University College Dublin
@ Alessandro Pezzola, ETH
@ Gianluca Pace, University of Amsterdam
@ Roberta Fiorino, Stowers Institute for Medical Research Kansas City (USA)

An engaging moment to tell high school students, through the direct testimonies of young researchers, what it means to choose to continue their studies in the scientific field.

2:30 - 3:30 PM

Advanced Genetic Engineering Techniques and Regenerative Medicine

@ Giuseppe Passarino, Professor, University of Calabria
@ Giuseppe Novelli, Professor, University of Tor Vergata
@ Eugenio Caradonna, Foundation for Research and Care "John Paul II" in Campobasso

In recent decades, genetic engineering has made great strides, evolving from an experimental discipline to an advanced technology with profound implications in numerous fields, including medicine, agriculture, and industrial biotechnology. This panel will delve into the latest cutting-edge techniques in genetic engineering, exploring their current applications as well as their potential long-term impacts.

3:30 - 4:30 PM

Cellular Epigenetics: Understanding and Modifications for the future of Medicine

@ Velia Siciliano, PI, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia
@ Vittorio Sebastiano, Professor, Stanford University
@ Umberto Simeoni, Professor, University of Lausanne

Cellular epigenetics represents a revolutionary field in contemporary biology, exploring how environment and experience influence genetic activity without altering the DNA sequence. This panel will explore the latest discoveries in cellular epigenetics, focusing on the implications for modern medicine and potential epigenetic modifications that could transform disease treatment.

4:30 - 5:30 PM

Omics and Bioinformatics Approaches for Precision Medicine

@ Graziano Pesole, Professor, University of Bari
@ Maria Svelto, Professor, University of Bari
@ Simone Bianco, VP, Altos Lab

The development of omics sciences and bioinformatics has revolutionized our ability to understand the structure and function of informational macromolecules, their interactions as well as the cellular functions with spatial resolution. This panel will explore the fundamental role of omics sciences and bioinformatics in Life Sciences as well as their innovative applications in areas such as drug design, cell engineering and precision medicine.

5:30 - 6:30 PM

Molecular Engineering for Regenerative Medicine: Approaches and Applications

@ Pietro Liò, Professor, University of Bari
@ Gianluca Farinola, Professor, University of Bari
@ Alessandro Sannino, Professor, University of Salento

Molecular engineering represents a fundamental pillar of regenerative medicine, an emerging field that aims to repair or replace damaged tissues and organs using advanced biotechnological approaches. This panel will explore the methodologies and applications of molecular engineering in the context of regenerative medicine, focusing on recent innovations and future prospects for the treatment of chronic diseases

9:00 - 9:30 AM

Law and Data Protection with clinical and technological data

@ Annita Sciacovelli, University of Bari
@ Claudio Caldarola, GP4AI
@ Adriana Agrimi, University of Bari

This panel will explore the challenges and best practices in data protection within the clinical and technological fields. Our experts will discuss the legal frameworks governing sensitive clinical data and technological innovations, highlighting strategies for compliance, privacy, and security. Key insights will be shared on how to navigate the intersection of healthcare law and cutting-edge AI-driven technologies.

9:30 - 10:15 AM

Technology Transfer and IP Management: opportunities and new approaches.

@ Massimiliano Mostardini, Bird & Bird
@ Luigi Galimberti, Farming Future
@ Marco Baccanti, FITT

Cell therapies have huge innovation potential. Key questions include fostering intellectual property amidst complex IP landscapes and fostering public-private collaboration. How can university-led innovations best transition to startups or pharmaceutical companies? Could PhDs working in industry enhance innovation by strengthening the connection between academia and industry? The panel will also discuss how to best leverage the connection between research and industry, as well as models for enhancing the value of intellectual property in other contexts.

10:15 - 11:15 AM

From Production to Distribution to the Patient: Distribution Models, Logistics, and Innovation in the Supply Chain of New Therapies

@ Giuseppe Cataldo, NASA
@ Gianluca Gigante, Poste Italiane
@ Alba Gorenca, Site Manager Cryolab SOL Group
@ Mario Balzanelli, 118 Asl Taranto
@ Giuseppe Tombolini, CEO Tombolini Officine Ortopediche

Prevention and integration of cell therapies into clinical protocols. Importance of the patient's role

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM

Data Science, Computational Models and related Technologies

@ Massimo Chiriatti, Lenovo
@ Simone Bianco, Altos Lab
@ Pietro Liò, Cambridge University

How will we manage the transformative impact of AI and Big Data in scientific research? The panel will explore the use of big data and AI in scientific research and the importance of data collection and management in predictive and precision medicine and discuss how large datasets and advanced AI algorithms are revolutionizing the way we understand, diagnose, and treat diseases. Emphasis will be placed on the significance of accurate and comprehensive data collection, as well as effective data management practices, in enabling the development of personalized treatment plans and predictive models. The session will also highlight real-world applications and case studies showcasing the potential of big data and AI to enhance patient outcomes, drive innovation, and pave the way for a new era of precision healthcare.

12:00 - 1:00 PM

Environment: One Health, Epigenetics, and the Impacts of Pollution on Human Health

@ Maria Stea, ADMO
@ Annamaria Moschetti, Doctor of Medicine
@ Rosario Meo, Italian Navy
@ Maria Stea, A.D.M.O.
@ Annamaria Moschetti, ISDE
@ Rosario Meo, Italian Militar Navy
@ Angelo Tursi, Univeristy of Bari
@ Testimony: Maria Nardelli

The primary aim of cell therapies is to develop new treatments for chronic diseases and autoimmune disorders, with a crucial consideration of environmental factors in health. By examining the intersection of One Health, Epigenetics, and Pollution, we can understand the profound impacts on both human and animal health. This panel will explore the significant impacts of pollution on Human and Animal Health, also by including the presentation of key data for measuring and evaluating these effects, highlighting the urgent need for innovative therapies to mitigate pollution-related health issues.

2:00 - 3:00 PM

Biotechnology and special needs: The Role of the Third Sector

@ Rinaldo Melucci, Taranto Mayor
@ Nazaro Pagano, ANIMC President
@ Angelo Raffaele Cagnazzo, President of the national agency for the deaf
@ Antonio Giampietro, Disability Rights Ombudsman for the Puglia Region
@ Pietro Vittorio Barbieri, EESC Member
@ Angelo Raffaele margiotta, Secretary general CONFSAL

How biotechnology can enhance the quality of life of individuals with disabilities, focusing on the contributions of the third sector.

3:00- 4:00 PM

Science at the Center of the State, "Scientific Research as a Driver of National Development" - ISA

@ Matteo Bassetti, University of Genova
@ Marco Tatullo, University of Bari
@ Vito D’Andrea, University “La Sapienza“ of Rome
@ Michele Mossa, University of Bari
@ Maurizio Vichi, University “La Sapienza“ of Rome
@ Rosa Lombardi, University “La Sapienza“ of Rome

This panel will explore how scientific research plays a crucial role in driving the development and growth of a nation. Our esteemed speakers will discuss the importance of fostering innovation through research, particularly focusing on the contributions of medical, technological, and social sciences in shaping public policy and promoting economic development. They will also highlight the collaborative efforts between academia, industry, and the government in creating a sustainable framework for scientific advancement.

4:00 - 5:00 PM

New Therapies and Access to Care: equality and reimbursement approaches.

@ Alessandra Catozzella, Boston Consulting Group
@ Aldo Patriciello, European Commission
@ Luigi Palmieri, University of Bari
@ Erica Di Pasquale, Market Access & Public Affair Telethon Foundation
@ Giulia Mastrorilli, Senior Associate Boston Consulting Group

How can we fund the innovation represented by new therapies, particularly in the field of rare diseases? In healthcare systems, innovation becomes truly impactful when it is accessible to all. What are the current and emerging experiences regarding reimbursement models for innovative therapies? This panel will explore and talk about different funding strategies, policy developments, and practical examples of how innovative treatments are being made available to patients

5:00 - 6:00 PM

Education and Research Centers

@ Paolo Pardolesi, Aldo Moro University of bari
@ Eugenio Guglielmelli, Campus Biomedico
@ Velia Siciliano, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia
@ Lucia Faccio, Partner, Sofinnova Partners - Telethon Strategy
@ Raffaele Antonelli Incalzi, Campus Bio-Medico
@ Paolo Pardolesi, University of Bari
@ Vito Giovannetti, Asl Taranto

Decentralizing access to knowledge and introducing methods and approaches to integrate and accelerate the Education and Research process is crucial, especially in remote areas. This panel will discuss the emergence of research centers driven by local needs, but globally connected and how can they attract global talent, or use of e-learning as a key element in training a new generation of scientists.

6:00 - 7:00 PM

Investments and Venture Capital in Biotech Industry


@ Antonio Baccari, Feel Venture
@ Angelo Gigante, Predict Health Care
@ Giovanni Ferri CEO ToSeed & Partners
@ Stefano Lagravinese, CLINOPS.Hub
@ Caterina Gagliano, Univesity of Enna

Despite Italy's current underinvestment in biotech startups, the proposal to create a center for cell therapies in Taranto holds significant potential. This panel will explore actionable strategies to build a resilient cell therapy ecosystem in the city, one that gains venture capital (VC) trust and fosters innovation. We will also explore the possibility for significant companies to thrive in Apulia. Additionally, the discussion will include the dynamics of biotech investment seen in other contexts, offering insights into successful models and approaches that could be applied locally.

Workshop Schedule

Youth and international reseachers jointly forge the future of cell therapies.

Choose your room and enjoy workshops and panels.

2:30 - 4:30 PM

Patient Journey in Cancer Treatment

@ Francesco Girardi, Doctor
@ Attilio Guarini, Doctor
@ Susanna Di Vita, Securecell AG
@ Isa Cafagna, Predict Health Care
@ Nicola Signorile, Patient with neoplasia
@ Michele Guida, IRCCS “Giovanni Paolo II” of Bari

An intensive one-hour workshop designed to delve into the patient's journey in cancer treatment. Guided by experts in oncology, participants will have the opportunity to understand various aspects of the patient journey, from initial diagnosis to advanced treatment options. Through interactive approaches and real-life case studies, participants will explore the challenges and opportunities along the cancer treatment path, gaining in-depth knowledge to navigate this complex and critical journey with greater awareness and understanding.

8:30 - 1:30 PM

Career Craft

@ Nicoletta Iacobacci, Global Technology & Ethics Advisor

An intensive 6-hour workshop designed to help high school students explore, define, and present their future career path. Using innovative techniques and cutting-edge technologies, participants will discover their passions, develop concrete ideas for their future, and learn to present them effectively.

1:30 - 2:30 PM

One Glimpse into the Future

@ ETS Visionaries

An in-depth exploration focusing on the anticipated advancements, challenges, and ethical implications within the field. Led by experts in genetics and bioethics, participants will delve into the potential for precision medicine advancements, ethical dilemmas surrounding genome editing, and regulatory landscapes shaping the future of genetic therapies. Through interactive discussions and case studies, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the transformative impact of genetic therapies, navigating ethical considerations, and ensuring responsible innovation in genomic medicine.

4:30 - 6:30 PM

Types of investment in the biotech sector

@ Antonio Baccari, Partner & Chief Financial Officer di Feel Venture
@ Emilia Garito
@ Kevin Bifulco
@ Luigi Galimberti, Chairman ToSeed & Partners
@ Lucia Faccio, Partner, Sofinnova Partners - Telethon Strategy
@ Milena Rizzo, President of Foundation Biotech For Life ITS Academy

Explore the diverse landscape of investment opportunities in the biotech sector in this comprehensive one-hour workshop. Led by industry experts, participants will gain insights into the various types of investments that fuel innovation in biotechnology, from venture capital and private equity to public market investments. The session will cover key factors that influence investment decisions, the risks and rewards associated with different investment vehicles, and emerging trends in the biotech industry. Through real-world examples and interactive discussions, attendees will develop a deeper understanding of how to strategically navigate investments in this dynamic and rapidly evolving field.

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Europe’s Leading Biotech Conference

Discover the latest technologies and innovations driving breakthroughs in health and biotechnologies.