Introduction to the Business and Science of Biotechnology

Jaclyn Dunphy is a co-founder and Senior Director of Strategy and Research Operations at Abiologics. She brings expertise in scientific innovation, bioplatform development, business strategy, and operations. Before joining Abiologics, Dunphy was a senior associate at Flagship Pioneering, where she was part of a team of scientist-entrepreneurs that endeavor to create value by exploring areas of new biology and emerging technologies. Dunphy's work led to the creation of several Flagship-founded companies including Ampersand Biomedicines and Abiologics. Dunphy completed her doctoral studies in neuroscience at Tufts University. Her graduate work investigated how astrocytes, a glial cell in the brain, contribute to information processing to enable learning and memory formation. Her graduate work elucidated contextual guidance cues that govern the release of D-serine, a non-canonical amino acid gliotransmitter from astrocytes onto neurons at the synapse. She was the recipient of a Ruth L. Kirschstein Predoctoral Fellowship (F31) during her studies. Dunphy's work has resulted in several patents and publications. While pursuing her academic research, Dunphy was also involved in multiple entrepreneurial activities, including leading the Tufts Biomedical Business Club and participating in start-up competitions. Dunphy holds a PhD in neuroscience from Tufts University, a MS in biomedical sciences from Kent State University, and a BS in biology from Xavier University in Ohio.

Nicolas Labovitis, MBA, ALM, is a successful serial entrepreneur, investor, professor, and business expert with a track record of launching and growing companies in diverse industries. Labovitis received his master's degree with a concentration in bioengineering and nanotechnology from Harvard Extension School and MBA in management from Fitchburg State University. Recognized for his expertise in sales, marketing, business strategy, investment opportunities, partnerships, technology development software, and mentorship, Labovitis has been approached by fellow Harvard entrepreneurs seeking his guidance. Driven by a passion for supporting business growth, he established Ibex, which has since become a fast growing consulting start-up with a two hundred percent year-over-year growth rate.