Hi, dupa,

I was talking to a CEO recently who runs one of the biotechs we’re recognizing on September 18 as a member of this year’s Endpoints 11 group, and he epitomizes much of what we look for: An academic/physician who’s founded companies, explored new technologies, built relationships and is now growing a company on the crest of a new wave in drug development.

He’s transitioned to the business side of biotech, built a seasoned leadership group and seems comfortable dealing with the realities of these most uncomfortable of times in the industry.

It’s no guarantee of success, of course, but his moment is here. Human data are on the horizon. The tech is closely watched by Big Pharma. There’s a race to be won, and a huge prize if they’re successful.

Even his investors seem like a crowd that understands the game and the risks involved. And that’s saying a lot these days, when the FDA is publicly repudiating past policies and the IPO market remains comatose.

These days more than ever, it's great to take a moment to celebrate the standouts in biotech taking big bets as they tackle daunting challenges. So I hope you can take a moment to join me, executive editor Drew Armstrong, our editorial team and special guest George Church, who’s joining us for the annual fireside chat about science and company building.

We’ll be gathering on the evening of September 18 at The State Room in Boston. It’s a great group of people. I always learn new things. Hope to see you there.