Arizona Biosciences News

Several years ago, Dr. Victor Trastek gave up a rewarding surgical career to take the reins of Mayo Clinic in Arizona. For a passionate physician like Trastek, the transition to life outside the operating room was not an easy one. However, in the years since, Trastek has helped Mayo shape an ambitious plan for the future.

More than 220 people attended the 2007 Arizona Bio Expo earlier this week to hear presentations from state and national scientists and business leaders. The expo, an event of the Arizona BioIndustry Association, was held in downtown Phoenix in conjunction with the third annual Excellence in Bioscience Awards dinner.

Arizona researchers Gro Amdam and Joanna Masel were two of 20 researchers nationwide to be selected as Pew Scholars in the biomedical sciences by the Pew Charitable Trusts.

Eight individuals and companies were honored for their efforts to advance Arizona's emerging bioscience sector last night at the third-annual Excellence in Bioscience Awards Dinner in downtown Phoenix, hosted by the Arizona BioIndustry Association.

Arizona unveiled a new look at the annual BIO international convention this year, highlighting its scientific assets and reputation as a destination where scientific collaboration thrives. The convention marked the introduction of the Biozona brand to national and international audiences.

Arizona State University has named Jonathan Fink the Julie A. Wrigley director of its Global Institute of Sustainability (GIOS), as well as chief sustainability officer.

Thirty years ago, Pierre Tariot was an English major with little interest in science. Today, thanks to hard work, intellectual curiosity, and the advice of a few insightful mentors, he is a world-renowned Alzheimer's researcher, responsible for co-directing Banner Health's new Alzheimer's Institute, conducting clinical studies, and running a statewide disease registry program.

TGen North, a pathogen genomics and biodefense research facility in Flagstaff, has opened its doors. The new 4,500 square foot state-of-the-art facility marks a major collaboration between the Translational Genomics Research Institute and Northern Arizona University.