Colorado BioScience Association, Senator Michael Bennet Host FDA Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf For Life Science Industry Roundtable

DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Colorado BioScience Association (CBSA) and Senator Michael Bennet hosted close to 50 Colorado life science industry leaders to meet FDA Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf as part of a dynamic roundtable discussion at Aurora’s Anschutz Medical Campus today.

“Today’s conversation with Dr. Califf provided the opportunity to discuss challenging topics—including the regulation of molecular diagnostic tests, and how companies and academic centers can best plan for an unknown regulatory landscape. I appreciated hearing his perspective on balancing patient access, innovation and safety among different kinds of diagnostics.”

The CEOs, academic leaders and researchers presented Dr. Califf with a Colorado viewpoint on top-priority industry issues, including user fees, the regulatory landscape for diagnostics and the FDA’s approach to innovative therapies and technologies.

April Giles, President and CEO of CBSA says:

“It’s a privilege for CBSA to co-host the newly appointed FDA Commissioner, Dr. Califf, with Senator Bennet. Appointed recently in February, our members appreciate the opportunity to engage with him early in his term. Dr. Califf’s visit validates the significant role Colorado plays in the development of new cures, as well as our Senator’s historical and current leadership in working with his office.”

Michael Bennet, U.S. Senator for Colorado says:

“Colorado’s growing life science sector is on the leading innovative edge of life-changing research and development. Today’s discussion is another opportunity to give these entrepreneurs and businesses a voice in Washington and to engage directly with Dr. Califf, the leading voice of the FDA. We look forward to continuing to work together to reduce regulatory obstacles, and ensure lifesaving treatments make it to the patients quickly and safely.”

David Brunel, CEO and Director of Biodesix says:

“Today’s conversation with Dr. Califf provided the opportunity to discuss challenging topics—including the regulation of molecular diagnostic tests, and how companies and academic centers can best plan for an unknown regulatory landscape. I appreciated hearing his perspective on balancing patient access, innovation and safety among different kinds of diagnostics.”

Participants in the roundtable represented the state’s thriving life science ecosystem, with more than 600 companies and institutions that support 122,000 bioscience-related jobs. CBSA members taking part in today’s discussion highlighted diversity and innovation in CBSA’s 350-strong member base.

The Anschutz Medical Campus and adjoining Fitzsimons Innovation Campus Bioscience Park Center are home to several of the state’s leading life science companies, research hospitals and institutions. The Anschutz Campus is recognized as one of the nation’s leading medical complexes.

About the Colorado BioScience Association

Colorado BioScience Association champions life science. We serve as the hub of Colorado’s thriving bioscience sector by connecting innovators to funding, infrastructure, research and talent. From promising young companies to established corporations and institutions, we provide opportunities for networking, education and professional development. We grow the bioscience workforce and lead business expansion policies to advance the industry in our state. CBSA represents more than 350 member organizations, including biotechnology, pharmaceutical, medical device, diagnostic, ag bio and mobile digital health companies, research and academic institutions and service providers. Learn more about us at http://www.cobioscience.com.