1 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
Explore. Educate. Empower.
We support life science innovators tirelessly through our mission, vision and values
Create opportunities for established companies, startups, entrepreneurs, innovators, and students to explore the depth and breadth of the bio and med tech industries and regional ecosystem.
ULP will create educational offerings to assist students and job seekers to successfully enter the bio and med tech ecosystem.
Provide the resources, people, and support systems to enable companies, entrepreneurs, and innovators to launch new ventures and products to create jobs and value for the region.
3 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow 3 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
University Lab Partner’s vision is to establish a thriving life science innovation ecosystem in the Southern California region with collaboration, inclusivity, and diversity as the catalyst for job creation and economic growth.
Vision
Mission
The mission of University Lab Partners (ULP) is to empower economic development and job creation in Orange County by combining a state-of-the-art life science co-working environment with workforce development and training opportunities.
Core Values
LET’S MAKE IT HAPPEN ATTITUDE We are here to provide you with the necessary resources to achieve success. COMMUNITY SERVICE Serve aspiring students and life science professionals by building a community dedicated to education and innovation.
HIGHLY COLLABORATIVE We foster a community of collaborators by sharing knowledge and expertise in a communal workspace. OPEN & HONEST Being open and honest about your goals allows for mutual understanding and opens up new opportunities.
4 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
Employee Spotlights The ULP team supports a culture of innovation that encourages entrepreneurs in the pursuit of life-changing medical solutions, while inspiring and equipping the next generation of diverse life science workforce.
As the Site Director, I oversee the facilities, laboratory, and EHS operations at ULP. My team provides onsite training and technical support for laboratory equipment and procedures, safety, waste management, security, as well as onboarding of new residents and their employees. The operations team see themselves as an extension of each resident team and actively try to contribute to their success by being a resource or problem solver. The joy of being a ULP team member is the daily confirmation that what we do directly helps our residents in developing their technologies. The operations team enjoys being an integral part of the ULP community. During my nearly three years of being at ULP one aspect that brightens my time here is the incredible opportunity to interact with a vibrant community. Whether it is engaging with our community members, collaborating with passionate colleagues, or partnering with our phenomenal sponsors, I feel immense joy and fulfillment in connecting with people who all have one shared purpose. The sense of unity and shared vision that comes from these interactions is truly invaluable and it is a constant source of inspiration. I joined the ULP team in October 2020. My journey here began when I discovered ULP’s workforce development initiative and decided to enroll in the Molecular Biology course they offered. It was during this course that I discovered my love to support the sciences and made the choice to join ULP’s team. Witnessing the residents and students who traverse the lab’s halls has been an incredible experience for me. I am constantly inspired by the diverse group of learners, from high school students to innovative startup companies, all working their magic within these lab walls. I find joy in offering support behind the scenes, striving to assist everyone to the best of my abilities.
Linda McCarthy Site Director
Emilie Tangsavath Senior Marketing Coordinator
Martha Delgado Senior Administrative Specialist
5 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
The journey from laboratory discovery to market success is intricate and demanding. By offering state-of-the-art co-working spaces, University Lab Partners (ULP) provides an incubation platform where early-stage life science companies can flourish. This collaborative ecosystem is more than just shared lab space; it is a hub of knowledge exchange, networking, and mentorship that accelerates the development of innovative solutions, at an economical cost. University Lab Partners’ vision extends beyond physical spaces—it aspires to establish a thriving life science innovation ecosystem in the Southern California region. Collaboration, inclusivity, and diversity are the catalysts driving this vision. By fostering an environment where diverse ideas converge, a more robust and dynamic life sciences community is built.
6 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow 6 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
University Lab Partners
Many scientists have limited knowledge in how to grow and scale a business. ULP provides early-stage companies tailored accelerator services, including customized advisory and mentorship. This targeted approach empowers entrepreneurs to refine their business models and enhances their likelihood of success. Secondly, the ULP Accelerator addresses the issues of isolation and limited networking experienced by early-stage life science companies. As a non-profit, ULP has a platform that fosters collaboration and partnerships, connecting entrepreneurs with leading research universities, private/public partners, and investors to create a vibrant innovation network. Innovative ideas and discoveries often remain confined to the laboratory, lacking the resources and know-how to progress to market-ready products. The accelerator plays a crucial role in translating technology, guiding ventures to bring their research into tangible products and expedite market entry. Moreover, the ULP Accelerator addresses the challenge of limited access to capital. Securing early-stage funding, particularly in the life science sector, can be challenging. The accelerator aims to increase access to early-stage capital by preparing founders to leverage undiluted funding through SBIR/STTR funding. This involves engaging with investors and large strategic partners, both domestic and global, and facilitating networking events to bridge the gap between entrepreneurs and potential funding sources. We aim to empower economic development and job creation in Orange County by combining state-of-the-art life sciences co- working environments with workforce development and training opportunities.
The life science industry significantly impacts California’s economy, supporting 1.19 million jobs and generating $129.6 billion in income. With a business output of $413.7 billion, every job in the sector creates 1.5 additional jobs in the state. In 2022, the industry’s employment grew by 6.0%, surpassing all other sectors in California and the US. Funding from the National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health to California increased by 3.9%, totaling $6.1 billion. Life Science Economic Data in Orange County
Orange County Statistics (2022)
141,768
Jobs Supported
$108,000 1,871 $46.7B Source: 2023 Biocom Life Science Economic Impact Report
Life Science Establishments
Average Wage
Total Economic Output
8 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
Breakdown of Residents by Sector in 2023
Other
Diagnostics
16%
13%
18%
Drug Discovery
20%
Therapeutics
33%
Medical Device
Impact-at-a-Glance (Incubator)
Since Opening in December 2019
2023
Resident Companies Incubated 45
64
New Jobs Created
110
448
$ Raised Aggregate by ULP Residents $ in Revenue Generation
$254M
$535M
$68M
$128M
3
9
Companies Graduated
Female/Minority Led Companies 15
36
29 Events 773 Attendees
Start-up and Entrepreneurial Educational Events
9 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
Accelerating Innovation in Orange County
INVESTING IN INNOVATION: UNIVERSITY LAB PARTNERS GRANTED $2 MILLION FOR SCALING INITIATIVES
This funding is instrumental in cultivating a robust life science hub right in the heart of Irvine.
In November of 2023, ULP was selected as one of 60 grantees nationwide to receive a $2 million award from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Build to Scale grant. The Build to Scale grant is a pivotal initiative by the U.S. Department of Commerce aimed at fostering innovation, supporting technology entrepreneurs, and driving economic growth. The program seeks to enhance inclusive access to entrepreneurial assistance and startup capital. Over 3 years, ULP’s $2 million award will be matched by $2M in local funding and dedicated to scaling its accelerator and commercialization initiatives in Orange County and the broader Southern California region over the next three years. This funding will enable ULP to implement a comprehensive and customized advisory program. This program will specifically assist early-stage life science and medical technology ventures, offering specialized entrepreneurial training and extending access to scientific infrastructure to facilitate commercialization efforts. Additionally, ULP aims to increase early-stage capital access, ultimately leading to the creation of high-wage jobs for a diverse workforce in the region.
Ahmed Zobi, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Syntr Health Technologies, a resident company at ULP, shared his excitement about the EDA Build to Scale grant. He stated, “I am thrilled to witness ULP being awarded this grant. It holds the potential to assist numerous founders in Irvine, guiding them along the entrepreneurial path and facilitating the scaling of their ventures. The funding is instrumental in cultivating a robust life science hub right in the heart of Irvine.” As the investment takes root and ULP steers its resources towards empowering the next wave of innovators through collaborative initiatives, the broader community can anticipate a flourishing ecosystem of technology and life science startups. The impact of this funding extends beyond the realm of business, with the creation of high- wage jobs emerging as a tangible outcome. Moreover, the commitment to inclusivity in accessing capital and entrepreneurial support reflects a broader vision of driving socioeconomic growth that is both sustainable and equitable.
View the Official Press Release Here
10 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
ULP Resident Success
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The ULP ecosystem has proven instrumental in attracting and retaining the best talent from around the country. Vena Vitals: Pioneering Innovation to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease
In the dynamic landscape of medical technology, the innovative minds behind Vena Vitals are making waves in the field of cardiovascular healthcare. At the forefront of this revolutionary endeavor are Ray Liu, Michelle Khine, and Josh Kim—visionaries who have come together to address a critical gap in blood pressure monitoring, a key aspect in combating the global epidemic of cardiovascular disease.
The problem at the core of Vena Vitals’ mission is the inadequacy of current blood pressure monitoring tools. Cardiovascular disease claims more lives globally than any other ailment, and blood pressure serves as a critical indicator. Traditional cuffs offer only intermittent readings. Invasive procedures can monitor continuously, but have higher risk of complications, hospital infections, and are a burden on the healthcare system. Vena Vitals’ non-invasive device seeks to replace these procedures, providing real-time accuracy
12 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
without compromise.
Vena Vitals joined ULP with just 2 full-time employees; today, they employ a staff of 13. Beyond tangible resources, ULP has played a key role in connecting Vena Vitals with investors, strategic partners, and suppliers. The visibility and network introductions provided by ULP have been instrumental in securing funding, with significant investments stemming directly from the ULP ecosystem.
Ray Liu, CEO of Vena Vitals, brings over 25 years of experience to the table, rooted in a deep commitment to advance medical technologies, save lives and help patients live longer, happier lives. As the CEO, Liu’s vision aligns seamlessly with the company’s goal—to make a transformative impact on cardiovascular healthcare through cutting-edge technology. Michelle Khine, a distinguished professor in Biomedical Engineering (BME) at UC Irvine, stands as a pivotal co-founder of Vena Vitals. Completing the trio of founders is Josh Kim, PhD and former post-doc student of Michelle Khine. His unique perspective, forged through academic rigor and practical experience, contributes to the multifaceted approach the team takes in tackling cardiovascular health challenges. The success of Vena Vitals is also attributed to its strategic decision to apply to become a resident at ULP. The facilities, equipment, and support infrastructure provided by ULP have allowed Vena Vitals to focus on developing both groundbreaking technology and building a skilled and dedicated team. Ray shared, “The ULP ecosystem has proven instrumental in attracting and retaining the best talent from around the country.” In December 2020,
13 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
inQB8 Medical Technologies: Transforming Heart Health ALUMNI SUCCESS
ULP’s turnkey provision of essential lab equipment and office space was instrumental to inQB8’s rapid development.
Heart failure remains a pervasive global health challenge, exerting a substantial strain on healthcare systems and affecting millions of lives. Heart failure patients have limited options, with many patients cycling through pharmaceuticals, repeatedly being hospitalized, and eventually need a heart transplant or Left Ventricle Assist Device (LVAD), underscoring the urgency for innovative solutions. Enter inQB8 Medical Technologies, a visionary medical device incubator specializing in addressing unmet needs in cardiovascular disease. Founded by Alex Cooper, inQB8 embarked on a journey to revolutionize heart failure care. After six months of working in his garage, Alex discovered the invaluable resources offered by ULP. In July of 2022 he transitioned into ULP’s incubator. This move enabled him to expand his team by hiring a skilled scientist. Reflecting on this pivotal moment, Alex emphasized, “ULP’s turnkey provision of essential lab equipment and office space was instrumental in inQB8’s rapid development. The alternative would have entailed additional expenses and delays through outsourcing. ULP provided everything necessary for our early-stage prototypes.” Currently securing series A funding, inQB8 has successfully graduated from ULP and now operates its own laboratory space in Costa
Mesa. The growth of the company, including addition of new team members, marks its integration into Orange County’s flourishing innovation community and is a significant milestone for inQB8.
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Together, these two technologies have the potential to revolutionize health care. AVITA Medical x Matregenix: Accelerating Innovation Through
AVITA Medical is revolutionizing skin healing, reducing recovery time, and improving outcomes for burn victims and those with vitiligo. Niraj Doshi, Senior VP of New Product Development, highlighted the positive impact of ULP’s ecosystem and network on the companies in recent years. With full access to advanced equipment at ULP’s shared wet- lab space, AVITA’s expanding team focuses on enhancing clinical results with their FDA-approved RECELL® System technology platform. This platform harnesses the regenerative properties of a patient’s own skin to create Spray-On Skin™ cells. Delivered at the point-of-care, RECELL enables improved clinical outcomes. RECELL is the catalyst of a new treatment paradigm and AVITA Medical is leveraging its proven and differentiated capabilities to develop first-in-class cellular therapies for multiple indications.
As a testament to one of the advantages of working in an incubator environment, Dr. Doshi and his team support and mentor new start-ups and have partnered with Matregenix, another ULP Resident company, to investigate and work on a new project together. Matregenix is a global leader in nanofiber technology, offering highly customizable nanofibrous materials for a diverse range of applications. They are constantly pushing the boundaries of nanofiber technology with cutting-edge platforms, focusing specifically on filtration and biomedical fields. Together, these two technologies have the potential to revolutionize health care.
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Therapeutic drug discovery is a lengthy process. . . posing a formidable challenge for start-ups. Crescenta Biosciences: Pharmaceutical Discovery
The journey of therapeutic drug discovery is a lengthy process, typically spanning 15-20+ years. Characterized by substantial financial investments in the hundreds of millions, it poses a formidable challenge for start-ups. The odds of successfully bringing a new drug to market are less than 1%. However, the potential rewards, both in terms of scientific advancement and the ability to deliver potentially life-saving drugs to patients, are undeniably significant. Crescenta Biosciences Inc., a pioneer in small molecule drug discovery, is dedicated to forging new paths in therapeutic approaches for diseases linked to fatty acid metabolism. At the heart of Crescenta Bioscience’s innovative efforts lies a discovery platform grounded in a groundbreaking concept. This approach enables the manipulation of biological functions associated with “fatty acid interacting proteins,” correcting metabolic imbalances and offering expansive therapeutic possibilities. The company has assembled a portfolio of first-in-class drug candidates for the treatment of diseases with major unmet medical needs, particularly those related to metabolism and aging. Crescenta’s goal is to advance its pipeline into clinical development and commercialization. Emre Koyuncu, a Fellow in Molecular Biology and Virology at Princeton University is a Co- Founder & CEO of the company. During his tenure at Princeton, Dr. Koyuncu collaborated
with distinguished innovators, including Nobel Prize winner Dr. David McMillan, Dr. Tom Shenk, revered as the “Father of Modern Microbiology”, and Harvard professor, Dr. Han Kim, who joined Koyuncu to co-found Crescenta Biosciences. Together, this formidable team is committed to advancing the frontiers of pharmaceutical innovation and determined to overcome the challenges inherent in the pursuit of groundbreaking therapeutic solutions. Seeking a laboratory to move his research to Irvine, Dr. Koyuncu found University Lab Partners to be a perfect fit. The transition was seamless, allowing him to continue his work with minimal downtime and access to a fully equipped lab and skilled personnel. Crescenta Biosciences stands at a critical threshold, having successfully completed regulatory testing in 2022, they are now at the pre-clinical trial stage. This milestone marks a pivotal moment in their pursuit of advancing their therapeutic solutions. The future holds the promise of transformative contributions to the field of pharmaceuticals as Crescenta Biosciences continues to navigate the intricate path of drug development.
16 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
Entrepreneurial Training and Development As part of ULP’s incubation efforts to accelerate startups In 2023, 750+ people attended 29 in-person and online events aimed at supporting and equipping life science start-ups with the necessary resources and subject matter experts across Southern California and beyond.
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Pitch. Launch. Grow. 2023
This year marks the 3rd anniversary of Pitch. Launch. Grow., OC’s annual pitch competition for life science start-ups. ULP received 50+ applications competing in two tracks (life science and medical technology). CytoRecovery and Vena Vitals were each awarded a 1-year sponsored lab bench at University Lab Partners and a $10,000 cash prize sponsored by Sunstone Management through the Sunstone Community Fund. The 2023 Pitch. Launch. Grow. winners were chosen by an expert panel of judges from Johnson & Johnson, Allergan Aesthetics, Amgen Ventures, Hoag Hospital, Insperity, Snell & Wilmer, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, GSB Health Management Solutions, Suncoast Ventures, and Xinetix.
Read the Official Press Release Here
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Women Talk Tech Bio is a half-day program that provides women innovators in life science with real-world advice and actionable insights they can immediately implement in their businesses. The hallmark of the forum is the speakers’ authenticity and desire to share their knowledge and experiences with others. Some key panel topics and discussions in 2023 included Life Science Landscape 2023 – 2024, Access to Capital: New Perspectives from Founders, Boards: How to Build an Impactful Board, and Financials & Cap Table Workshop. Women Talk Tech Bio
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Orange County Lifesciences Innovators Forum (OC LIFe)
OC LIFe is a bi-monthly marquee event series focused on creating a collaborative environment that fosters connections between innovators in the life sciences and medtech industries. In 2023, leaders learned from experts on topics such as Economic Outlook for Life Science Startup Funding, How to Leverage Non-Dilutive Funding, and Building Life Science Startups.
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Lunch & Learn and Other Workshops ULP’s in-person and virtual lunch and learn sessions foster educational and networking opportunities within the life science community. These sessions serve as platforms for professionals to exchange knowledge, insights, and best practices. By facilitating discussions and presentations, ULP cultivates a collaborative environment aimed at advancing innovation and expertise in the field. Some of the topics that have been covered include: Bridge Funding 101 Building an IP Strategy to Get Funded HR 101 - How to Survive and Thrive in a Challenging Economy The Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Selecting a CRO Marketing as a Competitive Advantage for Life Science Startups Exit Strategies for Life Science Startups Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Grant Funding
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A Modern Approach to Develop the Next Generation of Innovators
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ULP’s Life Science Education and Training Programs
ULP’s Life Science College to Career Pathway Program is an interdisciplinary pathway that inspires and prepares high school and undergraduate students for exceptional careers in the life sciences - either doing or supporting science, there is a place for everyone in science. The ULP Learning Lab is housed at the center of the incubator located at UCI Research Park allowing students the unique opportunity to learn and work alongside industry researchers and entrepreneurs. The space is designed to evolve with ULP’s programming from preparing students for college to successfully entering careers pairing innovative approaches to teaching, intimate cohort sizes, and access to cutting-edge technology and guidance from academic/industry mentors at the top of their research fields.
23
Impact at-a-glance
Total Students Served since 2020 2,007
Students Served in 2023 663
Since 2020 53 Paid internships in 2023 7
In 2023 10
Students that have earned a digital credential through University of California, Irvine Division of Continuing Education
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Life Science Pathway to College and Career
Field Trips Inspiring student through experimental learning
Career Talks Engage with industry professionals
Online Classes Accessible early exposure to Life Science
Explore Is Science for you?
Medical Innovation, Research and Enterpreneurship (MIRE) Work alongside top leaders in innovation and medicine
Intro Classes Hands-on 1-day experience in ULP’s state-of-the-art laboratory
Educate Gain Skills
+
=
Molecular Biology 1 Learn lab techniques to alter DNA
Molecular Biology 2 Learn how gene function
Digital Credential through UCI
Certification, or applicable college coursework, qualifies students to participate in college and career-empowering opportunities.
Empower Get into College
Internships High School and College Students
Undergraduate Fellowship
Summer Research Experience
Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
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Serena Wu’s Journey From Childhood Dream to Research Passion
25 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
Serena Wu’s passion for science was formed with the loss of her grandmother to cancer, at just 6 years old, and strengthened with her grandfather’s diagnosis of diabetes. In high school, she deepened her understanding of disease development and the risk factors that can affect the lifespan, learning how environmental factors can turn epigenetic tags on and off, potentially causing cancer in one identical twin but not the other. While Serena was in her junior year at UC Irvine’s Pharmacy Science program, she was seeking an internship to immerse herself in hands-on research. This led her to one of University Lab Partner’s (ULP) resident incubator companies, Scientific Horizons Consulting (SHC), who is working on innovative technologies to improve how medicine is delivered. ULP’s classes offered “invaluable real-world skills and experience”.
Stepping into ULP’s incubator facility, Serena discovered the transformative hands-on classes offered through ULP’s workforce development program. These courses provided her with invaluable real-world skills and experience and moved her from an intern at SHC to a part-time role Research Associate, quite an accomplishment for an undergraduate student. Recently, Serena’s journey took a remarkable turn. She applied for the National Institute of Health (NIH) Postbaccalaureate Program and emerged as one of only 15 students chosen nationwide for a coveted one-year Fellowship. Starting June 2024, Serena will work side-by-side with some of the leading scientists in the world, in an environment devoted exclusively to biomedical research. Serena shared that the” hands-on experience from ULP’s classes and working in SHC’s lab at the ULP Incubator really gave her an edge in the NIH competition”. Her passion for a diabetes cure isn’t just a dream but a beacon of hope for millions. Serena Wu is poised to revolutionize global health and well-being.
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Partnering with Orange County Educators to Inspire Future STEM The Biotech Experience is a dynamic 3-hour program, immersing students in the world of biotechnology through hands-on activities in the ULP’s state-of-the-art research facility. Crafted for a high level of engagement, students not only conduct practical experiments but also interact with industry professionals from pharmaceuticals, life sciences, and MedTech industries to explore diverse career paths. The focus on real-world applications, combined with an interactive learning environment, aims to instill a passion for scientific discovery and innovation, making the trip a memorable and educational experience that goes beyond traditional classroom learning. ULP’s Biotech Experience Field Trip
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Medical Innovation, Research and Entrepreneurship
ULP’s Medical Innovation Research and Entrepreneurship (MIRE) program in partnership with Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), North Orange County Regional Occupational Program (NOCROP), College and Career Advantage (CCA), and Coastline Regional Occupational Program, aligns pediatric medical professionals with high school students across Orange County. During the 11-week program, students work in groups to research and collaborate, focusing on creating an innovation that addresses a real health issue facing children in Orange County. Students learn and interact with a variety of industry professionals to understand the current unmet pediatric clinical needs and choose one that they research and propose a solution for. The groups are trained and coached on visual and oral presentation skills and after practice and feedback, record a pitch that details their innovations for the industry mentors and judges from CHOC and ULP. Winners are announced at the MIRE celebration for students, parents, educators, and partners. Not only do students learn invaluable skills, build networks, and explore careers, they also earn 2.5 transferable college credits.
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Inspiring Passion and Purpose George Ghaly, a 10th grader from Valencia High School, attended ULP’s MIRE Program through North Orange County ROP. He was inspired to enroll in the MIRE program after viewing a MIT video, in which a team of innovators made it their mission not just to create an innovative walker, but to ease the pain of an elderly woman. George is working hard to prepare himself for college and the journey to take part in world-changing medicine that changes lives. While he does not yet know exactly where that will lead, he shared that, “the MIRE program has given me purpose to pursue something that is not just beneficial for myself, but to others and the well-being of society as well.” Read the LA Times Article “The MIRE program has given me purpose to pursue something that is not just beneficial for myself, but to others and the well-being of society as well.” - George Ghaly
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STEM Education for High School & Undergraduate Students Preparing the next generation of life science innovators through hands-on training, unique research experiences, and in-depth internships. Over 350 high school and undergraduate students attended immersive hands-on classes at ULP in 2023. These Resident companies with a low student- instructor ratio for rich a educational experience. Students benefit from learning in a laboratory equipped with over $3M of state-of-the-art scientific instrumentation alongside ULP’s
classes allow students to experience working in a state-of-the-art research and development laboratory facility alongside leading life science innovators.
1-Day Discovery Classes
The 1-Day Discovery Classes represent an educational initiative focusing on foundational laboratory skills. The class is designed to be both engaging and informative, providing participants with insights into the realms of cutting-edge research and hands-on engineering. Aimed at offering a snapshot of these fields, the classes facilitate an accessible and enjoyable exploration of scientific interests. Conducted on Saturdays through out the year, these
introductory sessions offer an excellent opportunity for students to explore their interests and discover the wonders of life science in a fun and accessible way. Introduction to Biotechnology Research Introduction to Virology Research Hands-On Engineering
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Deep-dive into ULP’s Classes
Introduction to Biotechnology Research During this 1-day class participants will learn and apply laboratory techniques commonly used in biological research. Participants will perform aseptic and molecular biology techniques to culture, image, and isolate DNA from mammalian cells.
Introduction to Virology Research
Hands-On Engineering During this 1-day exploratory course participants will explore the emerging technologies and applications of medtech devices using computer-aided design, 3-D printing, and material testing. Participants will design, build, and test a medical technology device. In this 1-day program particpants will learn how biotechnology uses viruses in diagnostics medicine, bioimaging, and the development of therapeutics and vaccines. Participants will perform hands-on molecular biology techniques to analyze the effects of viral infections on protein synthesis of mammalian cells.
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Molecular Biology 1
Molecular Biology 1 is an intensive eight-week course focused on Genome Engineering. This hands-on program provides training in essential molecular biology techniques used in research, development, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology labs. Participants gain practical expertise in areas like bacterial cloning, genomic and plasmid DNA
isolation, PCR, restriction digestion, and gel electrophoresis. The course covers both classic methods and cutting- edge technologies such as CRISPR and TcBuster™ for cellular genome editing. Beyond career aspirations in biotechnology, the acquired skills enhance university applications.
Molecular Biology 2
Molecular Biology 2 is an immersive eight-week course focusing on gene expression exploration. Covering crucial techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, protein purification, quantification, and experimental design, the program seamlessly integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application. This prepares students for practical challenges in biotech labs.
Successful completion grants eligibility for internships at ULP or its resident companies. Additionally, participants earn a Biotechnology Certificate from UC Irvine’s Department of Continuing Education, showcasing proficiency in industry-standard laboratory skills to potential employers.
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ULP’s Summer Research Experience is tailored for high school and undergraduate students passionate about pursuing careers in medicine and life sciences. In the 2023 program, 51 students explored how biotechnology laboratories leverage the surveillance mechanisms of immune cells to develop innovative cancer therapeutics. This hands-on experience provides valuable insights and practical knowledge for students aspiring to make a meaningful impact in the field Summer Research Experience
ROCK the Science
ROCK the Science, in partnership with Thermo Fisher Scientific, aims to raise awareness of life science careers and the pathways that lead the way for students to engage with industry professionals. ROCK the Science attracted over 150 attendees in 2023 including students, industry professionals, educators, and community partners. Panel discussions included Why a Life Science Career can be Life Changing, Unlocking the Future: Exploring the Boundless Opportunities in Biotech Careers, and Launching into Biotech: Navigating the Path to a Successful Career.
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Bridging the Gap from College to Employment
Madison’s transformative experience with ULP echoes the organization’s mission—to ignite passion, foster innovation, and carve pathways to a future where exploration knows no bounds
Launching in January of 2024, this 6-month program in partnership with Biocom California Institute provides college seniors and recent graduates the opportunity to be exposed to differing career opportunities in the thriving life science industry. Fellows participate in various events including professional development training with industry professionals, networking events, industry tours, and one-to-one meetings with carefully matched mentors. The program culminates in a curated career fair where fellows are invited to meet with representatives of companies Life Science Young Leaders Fellowship
Empowering Futures through Internship Experiences
Madison immersed herself in hands-on laboratory experiences, contributing to the organization’s thriving incubator ecosystem. Her time at ULP wasn’t just a job—it was the catalyst to her future. Graduating from Berkeley with a B.S. in Environmental Science, Madison is currently pursuing her master’s at UCLA in Environmental Health and Industrial Hygiene. Her dedication to creating healthy and safe work environments is rooted in the lessons learned at ULP, where she understood the vital importance of caring for employees and ensuring their safety.
Internships serve as pivotal bridges between academic learning and real-world application, providing students with invaluable hands- on experience and insights into their chosen fields. Through internships, individuals not only acquire practical skills but also cultivate a deeper understanding of their passions, shaping their professional aspirations and influencing the trajectory of their future careers. Madison Chi, one of many ULP Interns during the last few years, found her true passion that set the course for her future. Working alongside ULP’s operations department,
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The California Employment Training Panel (ETP) offers funding to help employers upgrade their workers’ skills, leading to better-paying, long-term jobs. This opportunity helps companies strengthen their competitiveness by offsetting some of the costs of job skills training and upscaling for employees. ULP acts as a multiple employer consortium (MEC) for high-priority sector companies in the Southern California region, enabling them to receive ETP reimbursement for developing a competitive workforce. Between 2021 and 2023, 11 companies received a total of $75,385 to upskill their employees. Leveraging State Funds for Workforce Development
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Accelerating Impact through Partnerships
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated sponsors, generous donors, and invaluable partners for their unwavering support throughout the year. Your contributions have played an instrumental role in advancing the life science community in Southern California. We look forward to continuing our partnership and achieving even greater milestones together in the coming year. Thank you for being an essential part of the ULP family.
Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie Company American First Credit Union Biocom California The Beall Family Foundation California Life Science ChemoMetec Fisher Scientific HATCHspaces | Nexcore Group Insperity Johnson & Johnson Community Partners & Sponsors
Jones Lang LaSalle Luminous Capital Management Soka University of America Solidworks Southern California Gas Co. Sunstone Management Sunstone Community Fund Thermo Fisher Scientific UCI Beall Applied Innovation UCLA Magnify at CNSI
Educational Partners
Soka University of America Thermo Fisher Scientific UCI Antrepreneur Center
Biocom California Institute CEO Leadership Alliance Orange County CHOC Children’s Research Institute Coastline Regional Occupational Program
UCI Division of Continuing Education Unity Middle College High School Vital Link
College and Career Advantage North Orange County Regional Occupational Program
36 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
ULP 2023 Resident Companies
Developing muscle regenerative treatments using stem cells and gene editing technologies for Limb-girdle Muscular Dystrophies.
ACGENE Lab
AVITA Medical Americas
Regenerative medicine company with a technology platform to address unmet medical needs in therapeutic skin restoration. Developing the infrastructure for remote patient monitoring for telemedicine services.
AYA Digital
Technology for noninvasive measurement of blood glucose will allow both spot check and continuous measurement of blood sugar.
Cercacor
Small molecule drug discovery company focused on developing novel therapeutic approaches for diseases related to fatty acid metabolism. Developing a benchtop, integrated cell sorting platform for life science research spanning oncology, neurology, and other areas of biomedical research.
Crescenta Biosciences
CytoRecovery
ElectroNucleics
Development of a manufacturable prototype device.
EndoCyclic Therapeutics
Developing the first non-hormonal, disease-modifying therapeutic for endometriosis.
Engineering Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) derived from stem cells to target auto immune diseases such as psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, and COPD.
Entelexo Biotherapeutics
Equilibr.io
Developing innovative approach to biosensors.
Primarily focused on developing anti-cancer drugs, anti diabetic drugs, anti-alcoholic liver disease drugs, and other health products. Conducting translational biospecimen research services towards cancer therapeutic research initiatives with a goal of improving patient care and outcomes.
Fulgent Life
Hoag
Kalman
Developing novel and cutting edge biologics.
Leonhardt's Launchpads
Organ regeneration based on bioelectric controlled protein expressions and biologics.
37 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
Developing an intuitive wearable patch to improve how we monitor breathing. Contract Technology Development and Manufacturing Organization (CTDMO) that provides customizable, end to end solutions in cGMP manufacturing and materials for cell-based therapies. Creating transformational tools for the discovery of the molecular causes of disease. Developing proprietary cloud-based imaging, sensor and data analytics devices for Physicians and Med-Techs to monitor healing and diseases remotely or in-person without having to remove the surgical dressings, bandages, wraps or casts that improves patient care, better health outcomes, and lower cost of care. Developing the next generation of inhalation technology platform that enables the effective pulmonary delivery of therapeutic and nutritional molecules to the human body for improved health outcomes.
Makani Science
OrganaBio
Phaeno
Pretika Corporation
Scientific Horizons Consulting (SHC)
Siege Pharmaceuticals Developing synthetic sphingolipids into anti-cancer agents. Syntr Health Technologies Reducing diabetic amputations in the aging population utilizing the patients own fat tissue.
Developing vaccines and immunotherapies for treatment of Infectious Diseases and Cancers. Developing tools and technologies for next-generation intact tissue 3D immunostaining.
TechImmune
Translucence Biosystems
University of California, Irvine Program in Public Health
Conduct both animal models and human studies in understanding the role of environmental factors influencing disease pathology.
Developing a wearable continuous blood pressure monitor to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Vena Vitals
A clinical-stage company developing innovative medicines to improve vision for people around the world.
Visus Therapeutics
For Type I diabetic patients requiring the supplementation of insulin XOStem encapsulation is designed to allow for the insulin-producing islet cells to act independently without additional treatments, potentially prolonging its usefulness for an extended period of years.
XOStem
38 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
ULP Alumni
Aracari Biosciences graduated in 2023 Autonomous Medical Devices Incorporated (AMDI) graduated in 2023 inQB8 Medical Technologies graduated in 2023
Next Generation Labs graduated in 2022 NXT Biomedical graduated in 2022 Noble Panacea Labs graduated in 2021
Novoglia graduated in 2021 Novoheart graduated in 2023
39 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
40 University Lab Partners 2023 Annual Report | Breakthroughs Today, Careers Tomorrow
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