University Bioconnect: Building and Exiting Life Sci Ventures w/ Chris Lee, PhD

Chris Lee's entrepreneurial journey is a masterclass in transforming groundbreaking science into successful ventures. After earning his Ph.D. in biomedical engineering from Georgia Tech and Emory, Chris co-founded Vertera, pioneering the first FDA-approved porous polymer spinal implant—a technology that revolutionized spinal surgery and culminated in a high-profile acquisition by NuVasive in 2017. Early grant and loan support from organizations like the Georgia Research Alliance played a critical role in Vertera's early growth, laying a foundation for its future success. Not one to rest, Chris soon founded Huxley Medical, where he's currently CEO, bringing clinical-grade healthcare into everyday life through innovative wearable diagnostics. Under his leadership—and again supported by early-stage funding from the Georgia Research Alliance—Huxley recently secured FDA approval for SANSA, a groundbreaking wearable device for sleep apnea diagnostics at home (no more overnights at a sleep clinic), further cementing Chris’s reputation as a transformative force in Georgia’s life sciences ecosystem. With his track record of lean innovation, high-impact entrepreneurship, and dedication to mentoring new healthcare startups, Chris Lee exemplifies why Georgia is an exciting hub for biotech innovation.

5:00-6:00 Networking
6:00-6:30 Chris Lee presentation and Q&A
6:30-7:00 Networking

University Bioconnect is inspired by the community-driven biotech hubs found in places like Kendall Square in Boston, where gatherings foster connections, exchange ideas, and cultivate innovation. At these events, researchers, clinicians, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry professionals come together around a shared enthusiasm for biotechnology’s potential. Georgia possesses strong foundations in research, clinical expertise, and expanding infrastructure, positioning it to become a notable hub for biotech innovation. University Bioconnect aims to accelerate this growth by creating regular opportunities for meaningful interactions and collaboration. Join us to build connections, explore new ideas, and help shape the future of Georgia’s biotech community.

Light appetizers will be provided by Georgia Research Alliance, who is proud to sponsor this event.