Michigan Drug Discovery & Development Symposium

A Day of Learning and Discovery

 

Monday, May 11, 2026

Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor

Advancing Innovation. Connecting Michigan's Biosciences Community.

The Drug Discovery & Development Symposium brings together biopharma professionals, contract research organizations (CROs), faculty, students and others for a day of learning, networking, and collaboration. It’s a unique opportunity to engage with Michigan’s biotechnology community, explore drug discovery efforts, and discover new avenues for partnership. 

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Why Attend?

This program offers something for everyone: 

• Inspiring Keynotes & Panels - Gain insights from thought leaders tackling today's biggest challenges in drug discovery and development
• Research Presentations & Posters - Explore groundbreaking science and innovative projects from across Michigan
• Exhibits - Connect with organizations advancing the latest technologies and solutions
• Networking Opportunities - Build meaningful connections that spark future collaboration

Whether you're looking to deepen your knowledge, connect with like-minded professionals, or discover new opportunities, this symposium puts you at the forefront of Michigan's biosciences ecosystem. 

Who Should Attend?

This event is designed for anyone invested in advancing drug discovery and development, including:

• Faculty, researchers, and students from Michigan's leading universities
• Biopharma professionals and CRO representatives
• Entrepreneurs, innovators, and members of the biotechnology community

If you're eager to explore the latest innovations, collaborate across sectors, or grow your professional network, don't want to miss this event!

REGISTER TODAY

KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Felicia Pagliuca, PhD
Senior Vice President, Cell and Genetic Therapy Research; Site head LC1
Vertex Pharmaceuticals

Dr. Felicia Pagliuca is currently Senior Vice President, Cell and Genetic Therapy Research at Vertex Pharmaceuticals. She received a BS from Duke University and a PhD from Cambridge University where she was a Marshall Scholar. She completed her postdoctoral fellowship with Dr. Douglas Melton at the Harvard Stem Cell Institute, where she worked with Dr. Melton to discover how to generate stem cell-derived pancreatic beta cells in the lab. She co-founded Semma Therapeutics with Dr. Melton in 2014. While at Semma, she served as Vice President of Cell Biology Research and Development, where she led the development of investigational cell therapies for the treatment of type 1 diabetes. She joined Vertex Pharmaceuticals in 2019, when Semma was acquired by Vertex, and served as the company’s Vice President and Disease Area Executive for type 1 diabetes for 5 years before moving into her current role.