A Return to Networking: DIA 2022 Signals a Reawakening of In-Person Collaboration
The DIA 2022 networking event marked a long-awaited return to in-person engagement for the life sciences industry. For many attendees, this was the first opportunity to reconnect face-to-face since the last DIA Annual Conference in San Diego in June 2019. As a result, the energy on the exhibit floor was unmistakable.
Extroverts were recharged, conversations flowed easily, and decision-makers were eager to reconnect. In an industry built on collaboration across drug discovery, approval, and manufacturing, the value of one-on-one interaction became immediately clear.
Attendance Trends and Industry Caution
Although overall attendance was slightly lower than in 2019, the difference was far less noticeable than expected. Ongoing COVID variant concerns likely contributed, as many large pharma and biotech organizations limited the number of staff attending in person. Even so, engagement remained high, and the exhibit hall stayed active throughout the conference.
Key Trends on the Exhibit Floor
Across the exhibit floor, discussions consistently centered on hybrid and decentralized clinical trials. Many established and emerging companies showcased decentralized eClinical platforms, reflecting continued investment in flexible trial models.
At the same time, patient recruitment solutions were highly visible, with a wide range of approaches on display. Notably, mobile clinical trial sites drew strong interest, including two companies that showcased full mobile units directly on the showroom floor.
GLSA Presence at DIA 2022
GLSA leadership and partners were active throughout the conference, including Brian Horan (SupplyRx), Denise McNerney, Chris Matheus, and Michael O’Gorman (Life Science Marketplace).
Brian Horan (SupplyRx), Denise McNerney, Chris Matheus, and Michael O’Gorman (LifeScience Marketplace) at DIA 2022
In addition, Denise McNerney presented at DIA alongside Robin Whitsell (Whitsell Innovations, Inc.) and Susan Morris (Susan Morris Coaching) on Fostering Innovation and Psychological Safety in the Workplace, contributing to important conversations around leadership and culture in life sciences.
Networking Beyond the Conference Floor
While after-hours events were generally more reserved than in 2019, some stood out. In particular, CluePoints, celebrating its 10-year anniversary, emerged as the clear leader in late-night networking energy.
GLSA also co-hosted the Clinical ReConnections Networking Event on Sunday, June 19th, at The Bassment, just steps from the conference venue. Alongside Zymewire, Life Science Marketplace and FOCM Networking, the event was sponsored by SupplyRx, Verustat and KPS Life.
The speakeasy-style venue, live band, and thoughtful layout created an ideal environment for meaningful conversation. Importantly, GLSA used the opportunity to highlight and actively promote its clients throughout the evening.
Photos of the event were shared live on social media, extending engagement beyond the room and increasing brand visibility for participating organizations. If not already participating in our promotional initiative, please follow our LinkedIn page and interact with our audience.
Upcoming Conferences:
GLSA recommends the following conferences for the remainder of the year:
- Rare Diem (Rare Disease in Emerging Markets) – Virtual Meeting | August 25
- Society for Clinical Data Management (SCDM) – San Antonio, TX | September 11–14
- Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) – Hollywood, FL | October 7–9
- Outsourcing in Clinical Trials New England, – Boston, MA | October 12–13
- CNS (Collaborating for Novel Solutions) Summit – Boca Raton, FL | November 17–20
Looking Ahead
If you’re interested in learning how Global Life Sciences Alliance can represent and promote your organization at upcoming conferences, please reach out through our contact form or connect directly with your GLSA representative.
Connecting Innovative Resources
in Life Sciences to
Improve Patients’ Lives
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.