Aging biology has reached a true inflection point—scientifically, clinically, and commercially—and is now ready for serious drug development and investment. Tim challenges the view that aging is too complex or unapproachable, as he outlines credible regulatory and trial pathways, and makes the case that targeting the root causes of aging could unlock a trillion-dollar market while reducing disease and healthcare costs. In short, aging is no longer fringe science — it’s the next major opportunity in biopharma.

Additional resource: Aging: Looking Forward by Tim Opler, PhD

In this dynamic and insightful panel, we bring together a diverse group of industry leaders to explore the art and science of successful presentations at Biotech Showcase. As one of the largest and most influential healthcare investor conferences, Biotech Showcase takes place during “Healthcare Week” in San Francisco and offers unparalleled opportunities for biotech, TechBio, and seed companies to gain visibility, attract investment, and forge strategic partnerships. This session is designed to equip presenting companies with the tools and strategies needed to maximize their impact and stand out in a competitive landscape.

Panel Overview:

Drawing on the wealth of experience from both sides of the presentation podium, our expert panelists will provide a 360-degree view of what makes a company presentation truly compelling. From crafting your narrative to leveraging the latest digital tools, this session will cover all aspects of a successful Biotech Showcase appearance.

In a rapidly changing world, scientific discovery has the power to transform the health and wellbeing of everyday people — yet the pace of innovation often outstrips public understanding, policy adaptation, and ethical reflection. This session of The Briefing Room explores how to close that gap: How can we make complex science and ideas relatable without diluting their substance? What systems and ethical frameworks can ensure that science serves society equitably and transparently? And what roles do communicators, creatives, and civic leaders play in building trust and meaning around science in public life? This is a conversation about responsibility, relevance, and the future of innovation in society. By integrating ethics, communication, and systems designed to connect discovery with lived experience, this conversation aims to inspire a new paradigm: one where innovation thrives through inclusive conversation, transparency, and shared purpose.

As policy changes reshape the future of science and innovation, the biopharma industry is under unprecedented scrutiny. From drug pricing reforms and regulatory overhauls to evolving government funding priorities, policy turbulence is driving the narratives shaping public trust, investor confidence, and industry reputation. This session of The Briefing Room brings together leading journalists and policy analysts to examine how organizations can successfully navigate and reframe conversations about innovation and stay true to mission in a continuously changing policy environment.

This virtual salon will feature advice from investors, communication experts, and pharma BD on how to tell your story to attract funders and partners. Furthermore, this hour-long salon will introduce “Spotlight Panels” which are designed to maximize exposure for participating companies, elevate their visibility, and foster meaningful dialogue through expertly moderated, dynamic discussions with real-time audience interaction. Breaking from traditional pitch presentations, this innovative format creates richer, more memorable experiences for those seeking to discover and connect with the next wave of transformative biotech companies and technologies.

Join Tim Opler, PhD (Stifel) and Lila Taylor (Demy-Colton) for a dynamic fireside chat on the cutting edge of longevity science. Explore how today’s biotech and pharma innovators are translating breakthroughs in genetics, cellular biology, and regenerative medicine into real-world therapies that target aging itself. Discover what’s next in lifespan/health span extension, the latest clinical advances, and the transformative impact these efforts could have on healthcare and society.

Additional resource: Aging: A Brief History by Tim Opler, PhD

11:00 – 11:05 am
Introduction
* Sara Demy, Founder & CEO, Demy-Colton
* Steve Brozak, DMH, President & Co-Founder, WBB Securities

11:05 – 11:10 am
Understanding the Shortcomings of CAR-T Therapy
* Helen Heslop, MD, Professor, Department of Medicine & Pediatrics and Director, Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine

11:10 – 11:15 am
Overcoming the Current Limitations of CAR-T Therapy
* Malcolm Brenner, MD, PhD, Professor, Center for Cell & Gene Therapy and Founding Director, Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine

11:15 – 11:20 am
MAR-T Cells as a Novel Approach to Address Unmet Needs
* Juan Vera, MD, President & CEO, Marker Therapeutics

11:20 – 11:50 am
Roundtable Discussion

Moderator
* Richard Marfuggi, MD, DMH, WBB Research Institute

Panelists:
* Malcolm Brenner, MD, PhD, Professor, Center for Cell & Gene Therapy and Founding Director, Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine
* Helen Heslop, MD, Professor, Department of Medicine & Pediatrics and Director, Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine
* Manali Kamdar, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine and Clinical Director of Lymphoma Services, University of Colorado
* Geoffrey Shouse, DO, PhD, Hematologist-Oncologist & Researcher, City of Hope
* Juan Vera, MD, President & CEO, Marker Therapeutics

11:50 am – 12:00 pm
Q&A

Click here to register

Join us for an insightful virtual salon, featuring Tim Opler, as we explore the evolving landscape of the biotech financial markets in 2025. As we enter a new era characterized by growth, complexity, and opportunity, the sector faces a myriad of challenges and advancements. With a new government in place, rapid technological innovations, shifting regulatory frameworks, and changing investor sentiments, understanding the future of biotech finance demands both expertise and strategic foresight.

This discussion will provide a comprehensive outlook on the biotech financial markets, offering valuable insights for investors, executives, and industry professionals. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the key factors shaping the market and learn how to navigate effectively in 2025 and beyond

Tim Opler, Managing Director, Global Healthcare Group, Stifel

Interviewed by Sara Jane Demy, Founder & CEO, Demy-Colton

Join us for an insightful webinar featuring a panel of TechBio CEOs, venture investors, and industry experts as they discuss the latest trends and innovations shaping the future of human health during Biotech Showcase and Healthcare Week, January 13^th-15^th in San Francisco. This session will provide valuable updates on what to expect from the TechBio sector, including emerging technologies and investment opportunities that are set to redefine patient care, drug discovery, tools, manufacturing and digital therapeutics. Don’t miss this chance to gain expert insights and discover how the convergence of technology and biology is transforming the healthcare landscape.

In this dynamic and insightful panel, we bring together a diverse group of industry leaders to explore the art and science of successful presentations at Biotech Showcase. As one of the largest and most influential healthcare investor conferences, Biotech Showcase takes place during Healthcare week in San Francisco and offers unparalleled opportunities for biotech, TechBio, and MedTech companies to gain visibility, attract investment, and forge strategic partnerships. This session is designed to equip presenting companies with the tools and strategies needed to maximize their impact and stand out in a competitive landscape.

Panel Overview:

Drawing on the wealth of experience from both sides of the presentation podium, our expert panelists will provide a 360-degree view of what makes a company presentation truly compelling. From crafting your narrative to leveraging the latest digital tools, this session will cover all aspects of a successful Biotech Showcase appearance.