GLSA | FOCM July 2022 Networking Event: Summer Reflections in Life Sciences
The GLSA | FOCM July 2022 networking event took place on Wednesday, July 20 at 5:00 PM EST. The session welcomed a lively and diverse group of life sciences professionals, many of whom were long-time colleagues or friends of Chris Matheus, President of FOCM and GLSA’s Chief Commercial and Networking Officer.
A Summer-Themed Conversation
Given the industry’s slower pace during July and August, the theme of the evening was “Summer Fun.” Chris opened the event by explaining that, unlike typical sessions focused on education or vendor capabilities, this gathering was designed to be more personal. The goal was simple: encourage relaxation, reflection, and connection during the summer months.
That said, work conversations naturally found their way into the discussion.
Industry Updates and Ongoing Shifts
Attendees shared observations from recent conferences, including the BIO International Convention in San Diego and the DIA Annual Meeting in Chicago. In particular, participants noted the limited sponsor presence at both events.
The conversation also touched on COVID-19 outbreaks at conferences, personal recovery experiences, and the now-familiar challenges of post-pandemic event attendance.
Andrew Mulchinski noted that Symbio has not fully adopted decentralized clinical trials (DCTs), which led to broader discussion around hybrid study models. In addition, Chris highlighted recent CRO leadership changes and acquisitions shaping the current market.
A Breakthrough Worth Celebrating
One of the most impactful moments of the event was the discussion around a recent Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center clinical trial. In a small study, researchers achieved 100% remission of rectal cancer using immunotherapy alone, without surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. The result sparked optimism and reminded attendees why collaboration in clinical research matters.
Looking Ahead
As always, the event reinforced a shared commitment to improving patients’ lives worldwide. If you’re interested in presenting on an educational life sciences topic or contributing to future discussions, please leave a comment and we’ll be in touch.
Attendees represented organizations across the life sciences ecosystem, including:
Portrett Pharmaceuticals, Farmacon Global, SupplyRx, Unlearn.ai, Aris Global, Life Science Marketplace, AnalysisMate, MedNet, HUMA, BioMedWorx, IMA Clinical Research, and Transcelerate Biopharma, Inc.
~Chris Matheus / HML
About GLSA
Global Life Sciences Alliance (GLSA) connects biotechs, pharma, CROs, and clinical research sites with the right experts, advisors, and solutions to accelerate development and reduce risk. With a network of more than 200 trusted partners spanning pre-clinical and clinical research, GLSA offers flexible, cost-effective access to specialized expertise and services that support early-stage biotechs, mid-size pharma, and global pharmaceutical companies.
When you need trusted, global resources to accelerate your research, GLSA helps you scale smarter and move you forward with confidence.
To learn how GLSA can support your organization, connect with Denise McNerney or Chris Matheus for a conversation about your goals and challenges.