BIOSCIENCE UNDER THE BIG SKY

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B I O S C I E N C E U N D E R T H E B I G S K Y

m o n t a n a b i o . o r g

2014 DIRECTORY 3

MONTANA BIOSCIENCE ALLIANCE BOARD 2014President and ChairmanDavid Poulsen, PhDChief Scientific Officer/InventorSinapis Pharma

Vice PresidentRon E. ZookPresident and CEOSwan Valley Medical, Incorporated

SecretaryDavid GibsonCEO3 Rivers Communication

TreasurerCarol Beam, CPA, MBADirector, Strategy and Business DevelopmentSt. Vincent Healthcare

Sharon PetersonExecutive Director

DIRECTORSChris AagesonRegional Director Client Services CTA

Robert F. Bargatze, PhDVP Science/Site HeadTakeda Vaccines

Elizabeth Ciemins, PhD, MPH, MAResearch DirectorCenter for Clinical Translational ResearchBillings Clinic

Paul Cook, MD, MHADirector of the Institute for Health Research & PolicyMSU Billings

David CrumCommunity Connections ManagerGreat Falls Public Schools

John DelaneyExecutive Director, ResearchAmgen, Inc.

Chad DelongExecutive Vice PresidentSustainable Efficiency Inc.

Diane Duin, MHA, PhDDean, College of Allied Health ProfessionsMSU Billings

Joe Fanguy, PhDDirector of Technology Transfer, University of Montana President, Montana Technology Enterprise Center

Teresa Gunn, PhDAssociate ProfessorMcLaughlin Research Institute

Spencer GuthrieDirector, State Government AffairsGSK Vaccines

Mark Jutila, PhDDepartment of MicrobiologyMontana State University

Rebecca Mahurin, PhDDirector, Technology Transfer OfficeMontana State University

Neil Moisey, PhDDeputy Commissioner for Academic, Research and Student AffairsMontana University System

Anne Marie Quinn, MPHFounder and CEOMontana Molecular

John RogersChief Business OfficerGovernor’s Office of Economic Development

The Montana BioScience Alliance Directory was produced by the koppel group LLC.

Art Director - Mary Jo Little

For further information please contact: [email protected]

2 0 0 4 - 2 0 1 4P.O. BOX 1773 BILLINGS, MT 59103 406-896-5876 www.montanabio.org [email protected]

We would like to thank the Governor’s Office of Economic Development

for their support of this publication.

Board Chair David Poulsen, PhD

MONTANA BIOSCIENCE ALLIANCE

Annual Review pages 6 & 7 begins on page 6

A Message from the Governor

page 10

Dr. George Carlson, Director of the McLaughlin Research Institute page 13

HALL OF FAME

The National Institute of Health pages 18 & 19

page 4

2014 BIOSCIENCE ALLIANCE DIRECTORY begins on page 19

Contents

4 MONTANA BIOSCIENCE ALLIANCE

Board Chair David Poulsen, PhD

The Montana BioScience Alliance is an organization that serves as a hub for Montana’s biotechnology companies, entrepreneurs,

laboratories, hospitals, clinics and universities to commercialize, grow and sustain globally competitive bioscience companies.

Our goal is to create high-quality jobs and economic opportunity in Montana.

Chief Scientific Officer/Inventor

Sinapis Pharma

Welcome to the Montana BioScience Alliance’s 10th anniversary edition of BioScience Under the

Big Sky, the state’s guide and directory to the Montana bioscience industry. As we celebrate this

event, it’s exciting to look back and see the significant advances Montana has made in growing

our bioscience industry.

Over the past decade, we have grown from a ‘recommendation’ in an economic development cluster

study to our state’s flagship organization representing the bioscience industry. This publication is an

important part of our mission: to serve as a hub for Montana’s biotechnology companies, entrepreneurs,

laboratories, hospitals, clinics and universities to commercialize, grow and sustain globally competitive

bioscience companies. Our goal of creating high quality jobs and economic opportunity in Montana

is well on its way to achievement.

This success would not have occurred without the support of Governor Judy Martz, Governor

Brian Schweitzer and Governor Steve Bullock. As you will read in Governor Bullock’s message

(see page 10) and the NIH 2013 report (page 18) our industry has experienced significant growth

over the past decade and two major pharmaceutical companies: Glaxo Smith Kline and Takeda,

now have operations in Montana. Our two flagship Universities, Montana State University and

the University of Montana, have played major roles as engines of economic development by fostering

the start up of several bioscience-based companies. And we are proud that our bioscience companies

and employment growth have out-paced the nation.

As the third Board Chairman of the Montana BioScience Alliance, I am grateful to those who have

been willing to serve on the Board and encourage the growth of the Alliance. We celebrate the

collaborative nature of our companies, entrepreneurs, researchers, and government. And we know

that those folks will continue to be committed to our success.

While it is nice to look back and see how far we have come, there is clearly a lot of work ahead and

great opportunity for further progress. I look forward to working with you to continue building a

bright future for our industry.

2014 DIRECTORY 5

www.takeda.us

We’re driven to improve people’s lives.

Takeda strives toward better health for patients

worldwide through leading innovation in

medicine. At Takeda, we make a commitment

to make a difference.

Setting Innovation in Motion


In 2013 we continued to witness the success of the

matching state funds for the federal government’s

SBIR/STTR programs. These programs foster job creation

and economic development in the state by providing grants to

eligible businesses for science/technology/innovation related

projects. The grants are managed by the Montana Department

of Commerce and folks who receive an SBIR grant are

automatically eligible. We are pleased that Governor Bullock

included the funding in his budget and the legislature approved it.

Also included in the budget and approved was

1 million dollars for biomedical research grants.

Board and staff members have been hard at

work making sure that Montana’s bioscience

industry is on the national map. Board member

Anne Marie Quinn and Sharon Peterson represented

the Alliance at the BIO Fly-In in March. Board members David Poulsen

and Teresa Gunn and Executive Director Sharon Peterson together with

folks from Genectar, Microbion, Bioscience Laboratories and Rocky

Mountain Biologicals represented Montana and the Alliance at the 2013

BIO International Convention in Chicago in April. More than 15,000

biotechnology leaders from around the world attended the event.

The Montana BioScience Alliance joined Washington, Oregon, Idaho and

British Columbia to present the Life Science Innovate Northwest Conference

in Seattle in July. Attending and presenting were McLaughlin Research

Institute and Rocky Mountain Biologicals. Tom Brown with Genectar

presented a poster.

Montana BioScience Alliance

Annual ReviewBy Sharon PetersonExecutive Director, Montana Bioscience Alliance

IT HAS BEEN 10 YEARS SINCE THE ALLIANCE WAS ESTABLISHED TO SUPPORT THE GROWTH OF MONTANA’S

BIOSCIENCE SECTOR AND WE ARE PLEASED TO REPORT ANOTHER VERY SUCCESSFUL YEAR FOR OUR INDUSTRY.

2014 DIRECTORY 7

continued on page 18

w w w. m o n t a n a b i o . o rg

The Alliance helped organize and facilitated a Research in your

Backyard session in Billings in September. The session was

sponsored by PhRMA and they released their report on the

many clinical trials in Montana. A copy of the report is available

at: http://www.phrma.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2013_Montana_

RIYB.pdf

The Alliance also participated in Senator Baucus’ Jobs Summit

in Butte in September with sponsorship, a booth and a panel:

“From the Lab to the Boardroom: Taking Research to the Next

Level”. Well over 2000 people attended the Summit and it was a

great opportunity to network with folks across the state, nationally

and internationally, as several Ambassadors presented. Following

the Summit, the Alliance partnered with Colorado, Arizona,

New Mexico and Utah in the Rocky Mountain Investment and

partnering conference in Denver. Tim Descamps, International

Heart Institute and Suresh Daniel presented during the sessions

and Sharon Peterson served as a facilitator.

We joined BIO at the Western Governor’s healthcare policy

conference in September in Seattle. Following the conference an

Ambassador’s reception was held with Governor Bullock. And the

Alliance helped organize and participated in a Patient Advocate

Leadership Summit in October in Helena. Both events were great

networking opportunities. At our final presentation of the year,

Sharon Peterson represented Montana at the Council of State

Bioscience Associations retreat in San Francisco in November.

BLACKSTONE LAUNCH PAD

The Blackstone Charitable Foundation announced in September

the Pamela Haxby-Cote will serve as Regional Director of

Blackstone LaunchPad in Montana. The Blackstone Charitable

Foundation’s three-year, $2 million grant, which established the

campus entrepreneurship program at the University of Montana

and Montana State University in partnership with Headwaters

RC&D was announced in July in Helena. A native of Butte,

Montana, Pam Joins Blackstone LaunchPad from Senator Jon

Tester’s office where she served as Butte Regional Director.

MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY’S RESEARCH ENTERPRISE

An internationally recognized stem cell scientist from one of

the nation’s largest research universities has been selected to

lead Montana State University’s research enterprise. Renee

Reijo Pera, director of Stanford University’s Center for Human

Pluripotent Stem Cell Research and Education and the Center

for Reproductive and Stem Cell Biology as well as the doctoral

program in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine has been

named MSU’s new Vice President for Research, Creativity, and

Technology Transfer. Reijo Pera assumed her duties at MSU in

January.

BACTERIN INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS, INC.

Bacterin International Holdings, Inc. a leader in the development

of revolutionary bone graft material and coatings for medical

applications, announced in August that Daniel “Dan” Goldberger

has agreed to become the company’s new Chief Executive

Officer. Mr. Golberger has more than 25 years of experience

in the medical technology and device industry. He was most

recently CEO of Sound Surgical Technologies from April 2007

through its merger with Solta Medical (Nasdaq SLTM) in February

2013. During his career, he has held several executive leadership

positions within the medical device industry, as the CEO and

Director of Xcorpreal Inc. and President of the Medical Group of

OSI Systems.

GOLDEN HELIX

Golden Helix, a leading bioinformatic software and services

company, announced in May 2013 the hiring of new President

and CEO, Dr. Andreas Scherer, as the company seeks to

expand its operations in the rapidly evolving field of translational

genomics. Golden Helix has been ramping up its operations

to target translational genomics applications. The hiring of Dr.

Scherer is a reflection of the company’s growth strategy and

is expected to accelerate its effort in delivering more focused

solutions for clinical genomics, pharmacogenomics and advanced

diagnostics. Sr. Scherer, who began his executive career at AOL/

Netscape, has managed global software and services businesses

in excess of $100 million. He has a PhD in computer science

and expertise conducting research in DNA sequence analysis, as

well as intimate knowledge of the domestic and international life

sciences market.


RIVERTOP RENEWABLES

Rivertop Renewables, a Montana-based renewable chemicals

company, announced in April that John Monks has joined the

company as Vice President of Business Development. Monks’

career in the performance chemicals and biotechnology sectors

spans more than 30 years, having led business development

and sales and marketing for companies such as ICI DSM and

Genencor. His technical and commercial experience in the global

chemicals and biotechnology industries will help Rivertop develop

market initiatives for its innovative, bio-based products. Rivertop

is developing glucaric acid products as effective and cost-

competitive replacements for phosphates in the multi-billion dollar

global detergent industry and other large markets.

MONTANA BOARD OF RESEARCH AND

COMMERCIALIZATION TECHNOLOGY

MONTANA’S INVESTMENT IN RESEARCH AND

COMMERCIALIZATION PAYING BIG DIVIDENDS

A recent Economic Impact Study Conducted by the MT Bureau

of Business & Economic Research Shows that the Montana

Board of Research and Commercialization Technology has had an

“Outsized Impact” on Montana’s Economy.

The study by the Bureau of Business and Economic Research

(BBER), the main research unit of the School of Business

Administration at the University of Montana, shows the Montana

economy has been impacted by the ongoing operations of the

Montana Board of Research and Commercialization Technology

(MBRCT) at the Montana Department of Commerce.

The report, titled “The Economic Impact of the Montana Board

of Research and Commercialization Technology”, uses a state-

of-the-art policy analysis model and publicly available data on

program spending and associated impacts to produce a detailed

assessment of the ultimate impact of the operations of the

program on employment, income, output, and population in the

Montana economy.

The study finds that the operations of MBRCT “have produced a

larger, more prosperous and populous state economy increasing

the tax base since 2000 than would have existed in its absence”.

Many of the Montana Bioscience companies have found this

funding essential for concept development and preclinical

studies.

“Studies such as this one help validate the fact that economic

development programs make a big impact in Montana,” said

Meg O’Leary, Director of the Montana Department of Commerce.

“The Montana Board of Research and Commercialization

Technology invests state money in projects that are at the

forefront of research and innovation, and in return these projects

add jobs, income, and tax revenues that boost the quality

of life for all Montanans.” The full study can be accessed by

visiting http://businessresources.mt.gov/content/MBRCT/

MBRCTEconomicImpactReport.

Robert Bargatze, former Chair and Founding member of the

Alliance has recently been appointed to the board. Rob was

nominated by Rep. Chuck Hunter and appointed by Governor

Steve Bullock.

MONTANA BIOSCIENCE ALLIANCE OP-ED IN BILLINGS GAZETTE

The Billings Gazette asked Executive Director Sharon Peterson

to write a guest op-ed piece for the Billings Gazette. The editorial

which was printed in October, appears on the the next page.

Montana BioScience Alliance Annual Review continued from page 7

2014 DIRECTORY 9

Montana BioScience Alliance Annual Review continued from page 7

More than 800 clinical trials of new medicines have been conducted in Montana since 1999, thanks to the biopharmaceutical industry and the expertise of facilities such as the Billings Clinic, Frontier Cancer Center and Blood Institute, Montana Health Research Institute and Clinical Research Group of Montana.

A new report, “Research in Your Backyard: Pharmaceutical Clinical Trials in Montana,” shows that biopharmaceutical research companies have collaborated with these institutions and others in conducting their clinical trials.Montana has a respected biomedical research infrastructure and the companies have leveraged this strong environment.

Targeting cancerAbout half of the medications clinically tested in the state have targeted cancer, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, asthma and mental illnesses. The biopharmaceutical companies and their local collaborators have targeted their efforts to meet the most urgent health needs, and it’s important to note that nearly 200 clinical trials of new chronic disease medications are still active and recruiting patients. Some patients may still seek treatments that are best for them and a clinical trial of a potential new medicine could be a therapeutic option to discuss with health care providers.

Local research facilities conducting clinical trials for biopharmaceutical research companies are also helping to raise awareness of, and interest in, the state’s clinical research. Their outreach includes educational programs with Native Americans and other rural residents. In fact, the Billings Clinic clinical trial brochure has been translated into the Crow and Northern Cheyenne languages.

With biopharmaceutical research companies working with hospitals and contract research organizations in Billings, Bozeman, Missoula, Butte, Kalispell, Great Falls, Hamilton and other communities, the economic benefits of clinical trials stretch across Montana. Talented local researchers are engaged in cutting-edge biopharmaceutical research.

In the cancer arena, there are more than 30 clinical trials of new medicines still underway in Montana and in Billings. Biopharmaceutical research companies are collaborating on cancer trials with such facilities as the Billings Clinic Cancer Center and Frontier Cancer Center and Blood Institute.

Cancer medicine clinical trials are also underway through the Montana Cancer Consortium at the Bozeman Deaconess Hospital Cancer Center, the Glacier View Research Institute in Kalispell, St. James Community Hospital Cancer Treatment Center in Butte, St. Peter’s Community Hospital in Helena and St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula.

Preventive biotechnologySome of the medications being clinically tested in Montana are cutting-edge biotechnology therapies, which have the strong potential to offer safer and more effective treatments to patients. We’re also trying to master the techniques of biotechnology to improve our ability to predict and even prevent disease.

Clinical research is crucial to the process of developing new medicines. Clinical trials account for up to seven of the 10 to 15 years required to develop a new drug and 45 to 75 percent of the average $1.2 billion cost of developing a new treatment. Clinical trials involve thousands of volunteer patients in three phases of testing and the generation of tens of thousands of pages of technical and scientific data.

The data provide information needed by the Food and Drug Administration to determine pharmaceutical product safety and effectiveness and help regulators decide whether medicines should be approved for patient use.Biopharmaceutical research companies have been partners with the state’s research facilities in the development of new medicines for many years. And it has been a fruitful relationship, offering a variety of benefits to patients and the companies’ research collaborators. Agriculture and tourism remain Montana’s economic anchors, but biopharmaceutical research is also an active contributor to the state’s economic and physical health.

Guest opinion: Drug trials aid Montana patients, economy

By Sharon Peterson

BIOSCIENCE ALLIANCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SHARON PETERSON’S GUEST

OP-ED FIRST APPEARED IN THE BILLING’S GAZETTE ON OCTOBER 4, 2013.


I’m proud to commemorate the Montana BioScience Alliance’s ten year

anniversary by highlighting the key role Big Sky Country plays in this critically

important industry sector. Each year for the past decade, the numbers coming

out of Montana’s bioscience industry have reflected our success in fostering

growth in this industry; and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the

members of the BioScience Alliance for your role in shining a global

spotlight on all we’ve accomplished in this field.

The bioscience industry’s impact on Montana’s economy over the past ten years has been significant, and continues to

grow. As of 2014, there are more than 2,500 people employed in Montana’s bioscience industry at 354 businesses and

organizations across the state. The ripple effects on Montana’s economic vitality become even more profound when

we consider that the average wage for bioscience workers is nearly $20,000 higher than the average private sector wage

in our state. The human equation is equally compelling: Montana bioscience companies are hiring talented graduates

from our state’s higher education system and giving them the opportunity to make scientific breakthroughs that

improve quality of life around the world. Our scientists are creating the vaccines that will help prevent life-threatening

illness, and the drug treatment therapies that can restore our health. We’re finding treatments for devastating diseases

like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, and giving families around the world hope that our loved ones will live longer, more

fulfilling lives.

The bioscience industry thrives in Big Sky Country because Montana is home to an incredible scientific asset base

that makes us unique in the world. Over the past decade, National Institute of Health (NIH) funding has provided a

solid foundation for research and development across our state. Between 2004 and 2009, NIH awarded $44.3 million

to Montana bioscience companies, and in FY 2013 alone eight Montana businesses received NIH funding totaling

$6.2 million for research and development of technologies with potential commercial applications. We also have

world-class research universities to thank for robust growth in the bioscience-related economy over the past ten years.

Institutions like the Center for BioFilm Engineering at MSU and the Montana Neuroscience Institute at UM have

garnered nearly $22 million in NIH funding alone, while a $2.5 million US Army grant to UM Researcher

Dave Poulsen is helping to develop a drug that limits the damage caused by traumatic brain injuries. At MSU,

researchers have discovered how electrons are transported during DNA replication, breathing life into a new, tar-

geted approach for cancer drugs and therapies. That impressive impact NIH funding has had on our state has been

compounded by the presence of global institutions such as NIH’s state-of-the-art biomedical research facility,

G O V E R N O R S T E V E B U L L O C K


Rocky Mountain Labs, in Hamilton, the International

Heart Institute of Montana in Missoula, and

McLaughlin Research Institute for Biomedical Sciences

in Great Falls. When we take a holistic view of all

of the collaborative oppor-tunities and cutting-edge

facilities Montana holds within our borders, it’s clear

we offer bioscience firms significant advantages to

start, grow, and thrive while enjoying a quality of life

that’s unparalleled in the world.

Many of the advances emerging from Montana’s

bioscience industry may not have been possible

without support for Small Business Innovation

Research (SBIR) funding. Each year, our SBIR

Technical Assistance Program helps Montana

companies compete for more than $2.5 billion

dollars in federal grants that have been earmarked to

fund research and development while the Montana

Department of Commerce’s SBIR/STTR Matching

Funds Program provides up to $60,000 in matching

funds to Montana bioscience companies awarded a

Phase 1 SBIR/STTR award. That’s why I’ve made

continued support for the state match of SBIR funds

the legislature signed into law in 2009 a priority

during my time in office. I strongly believe every

investment we make in Montana’s bioscience industry

is an investment in our state’s continued economic

vitality and our ability to keep our sons and daughters

employed in high-paying jobs close to home.

As we celebrate ten years of dynamic growth in


2014 DIRECTORY 11

Montana’s bioscience industry, we’re also look-

ing forward to the next decade of achievements

that could transform our world. Earlier this year I

identified Health & Wellness, and Innovation &

Technology as Key Industry Networks to foster in

my Main Street Montana Plan. I understand that

the bioscience industry has a place in both of these

sectors, and will continue to ensure my Office of

Economic Development is doing everything we can

to educate the talented workforce and support the

business climate required for bioscience organizations

to thrive in a global economy. In April, I was proud

to announce the nearly $1 million Department of

Commerce grant awarded to the McLaughlin Research

Center so they can continue blazing new trails in

the treatment of degenerative brain diseases. Like so

many Montanans, I am eager to see how the scientific

breakthroughs from McLaughlin will give us the tools

we need to prevent and treat conditions that steal

quality of life from our loved ones, and transform the

landscape of healthcare.

On behalf of the many Montanans whose lives have

been improved by the advances and break-throughs

coming from our bioscience industry, I want to again

thank each business and organization in this directory

for the great work you’re doing. I look forward to

continuing to partner with you to continue developing

bioscience opportunities in our state.


Montana BioScience Hall of Fame

T H I E B I O S C I E N C E H A L L O F FA M E WA S E S TA B L I S H E D I N 2 0 0 7 T O H O N O R T H E M E N A N D W O M E N W H O

H AV E M A D E A D I F F E R E N C E T O T H E L I V E S O F P E O P L E I N O U R S TAT E , O U R N AT I O N A N D G L O B A L LY.

Our 2014 Hall of Fame inductee is

Dr. George Carlson, Director

of the McLaughlin Research Institute

in Great Falls, Montana.

Dr. Carlson’s underlying research focus has been the application of formal and molecular mouse genetics to advance the understanding of susceptibility to neurodegenerative diseases.

He took over as Director of McLaughlin in 1988. At the time, the Research Institute had only a single faculty member and a small facility. But under his leadership, the Institute has grown significantly both in terms of personnel and research facilities to achieve a global reputation.

McLaughlin Research Institute is now recognized internationally as a leader in the application of mouse genetics to the understanding of susceptibility to neurological and other diseases in humans. Work done at MRI helped revolutionize our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.

George has served on a number of public advisory panels and currently is a member of the Board of Directors of the University of Minnesota’s Bud Grossman Center for Memory Research and Care. Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, such as Celltech and Amgen also have called on George’s expertise in mouse genetics.

Most recently, Nobel Laureate and long-time collaborator Stan Prusiner said of Dr. Carlson in his book Madness and Memory, “Though shy and quiet, this self-effacing man was a brilliant scientist whose modesty almost always was inappropriate.”

The Institute’s scientists have been long-time leaders in the study of deadly, brain-wasting diseases, and one of their latest projects is working on finding the answer to a hereditary disease called fatal familial insomnia (FFI).

Though an extremely rare disease affecting roughly 100 people worldwide, George explained, with the “inability to sleep, you start becoming demented, losing consciousness, inability to recognize your loved ones—like Alzheimer’s, except death occurs within a year of diagnosis.”

The McLaughlin Research Institute has partnered with the Prion Alliance, a foundation started after a woman watched her mother die from FFI, and knows she now faces the same.Carlson says the research into FFI will not only benefit the small population affected, but could lead to discoveries that impact much more common diseases: “Now we know that the mechanisms involved in prion disorders are how Alzheimer’s, for example, spreads from one part of the brain to the other. Other diseases like Parkinson’s spread from one part of the nervous system to the other.”

George is proud of the fact that the Institute sponsors summer internships for Montana high school students and undergraduates and also offers research and curriculum development programs for area teachers—in fact the majority of the biology teachers in Great Falls have worked at the Institute.

2014 DIRECTORY 13

Montana BioScience Hall of Fame

Our 2014 Hall of Fame inductee is

Dr. George Carlson, Director

of the McLaughlin Research Institute

in Great Falls, Montana.

“I’m proud to commemorate the Montana BioScience Alliance’s ten year anniversary by highlighting the key role

Big Sky Country plays in this critically important industry sector. Each year for the past decade, the numbers coming out of

Montana’s bioscience industry have reflected our success in fostering growth in this industry; and I’d like to take this opportunity

to thank the members of the BioScience Alliance for your role in shining a global spotlight on all we’ve accomplished in this field.”

GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STATE CAPITOL, HELENA, MONTANA 59620-0801

www.business.mt.gov email: [email protected]

Governor Steve Bullock


As Yogi Berra was reported to have said “you can see a lot by observing” and during my 25 years as Dean of the College of Health Professions and Biomedical Sciences and one-year as the Interim Vice-President for Research at the University of Montana, I have observed a good deal. However, my graduate school major professor used to say, “any fool can criticize and most fools do”—so, the personal observations that follow are merely intended to offer some suggestions to better “move the enterprise forward.”

In the 2010-2011 Directory, my UM colleague Professor Richard Bridges did a nice job of connecting the dots between competitive federal funding for research projects (mostly from NIH), Intellectual Property (IP), partnering within a campus (in this case UM), and partnering outside of the campus, both with established firms in the private sector and with new start-up companies. I encourage readers to review his comments on economic development, which may be found at www.montanabio.org.

Dr. David S. Forbes, Dean and Professor of pharmacy for the College of Health Professions and Biomedical Sciences at The University of Montana and one of the founding Board members of the Montana BioScience Alliance is retiring at end of the current semester.

While dean at UM, Forbes built a strong alumni support base for annual giving, and coordinated two capital campaigns to secure funding for the additions to the pharmacy/psychology Skaggs building. Forbes has been active in pharmacy organizations, both academic and professional, for over 35 years at the local, state, regional, national and international level.

Montana’s University System—

Our State’s Economic Engine By Dr. David S. Forbes

2014 DIRECTORY 15


While Professor Bridges focused on the “nuts and bolts,” I am going to comment on the 30,000-foot view of economic development—using Wikipedia’s definition of economic development as “the sustained, concerted actions of policy makers and communities that promote the standard of living and economic health of a specific area.”

For our purposes, the major players in economic development include the Montana University System (MUS), Montana State Government, the Federal Government, and the private sector. Specifically, the MUS involves our two flagship research universities, UM and MSU. And, of course, the MUS also

include positions of influence in the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education (OCHE) and the Board of Regents (BOR). Montana State Government would include the Legislature and the Governor and the Federal Government would include federal funding sources, such as the NIH and NSF. The private sector represents businesses, which could tap into expertise found on the campuses of the MUS.

Ideally, in order to create more economic development in a positive and effective manner, all the above players should be able to “play well together!”— a simple but challenging concept to execute. The converse is to emulate what we see in our nation’s capital these days i.e. lots of meetings, much talk, little action, and putting the blame for no action on others!

Overall, I believe that, expectations for success need to be increased by and for all parties by setting priorities, determining the “deliverables” and then holding all accountable. Organizations and individuals will tend to gravitate towards where the rewards are placed. For example, for the most part, student FTE count over a biennial basis funds the MUS system (in terms of the general fund). But faculty is expected to work in three general areas, teaching, research/scholarship, and public service. It is the faculty involvement in the research/scholarship area that drives economic development involving the MUS.

My thought here is that there needs to be better state support for areas of the MUS which either are involved with or have the potential to be involved in economic development. It makes little sense for the MUS to work with philanthropists to build facilities when the state will not pay for the operations and maintenance (O & M) for the portions of these buildings allocated for research! Yet, these buildings still have to be maintained and the MUS must spend resources that could be more strategically spent to support graduate programs that, with appropriate expectations, have a positive impact on economic development.

Governor Bullock has created the Main Street Montana Project and it is off to a good start.

He asked two seasoned business leaders—Larry Simkins of the Washington Companies and Bill Johnstone of D.A. Davidson—to work with many Montanans to create a plan that has been distributed and I believe now is the time for the heavy lifting - that is, make it happen! For example, the report states “enhancing the role of our university system as an incubator of new ideas and technology through its research and development efforts” and while that charge is critical, just how will it be accomplished? This is one of those goals for which there is no finish line; continual progress needs to be expected and the entire leadership of the MUS, broadly defined, must be challenged.

Additionally, Governor Bullock recently appointed Mr. Johnstone to the MUS BOR and hopefully Mr. Johnstone will insist that the BOR challenge the MUS to be a major player in making the Main Street Montana Project work for all. The Governor should also consider appointing a person to the BOR with extensive knowledge in extramural funded research issues.

In summary, the MUS can be a much larger economic engine for Montana. The Governor and the leadership of the MUS along with the leadership of the Montana Legislature should sit down, roll up their sleeves and develop some common goals based upon work already accomplished. Our leaders should set a high bar in developing mutually agreed upon activities in order to leverage significant economic development for Montana. We should expect nothing less.

Dr. David S. Forbes, Dean and Professor of pharmacy for the College of Health Professions and Biomedical Sciences at The University of Montana and one of the founding Board members of the Montana BioScience Alliance is retiring at end of the current semester.

While dean at UM, Forbes built a strong alumni support base for annual giving, and coordinated two capital campaigns to secure funding for the additions to the pharmacy/psychology Skaggs building. Forbes has been active in pharmacy organizations, both academic and professional, for over 35 years at the local, state, regional, national and international level.

Montana’s University System—

Our State’s Economic Engine By Dr. David S. Forbes

While Professor Bridges focused on the “nuts and bolts” I am going to comment on the 30,000-foot view of economic development —


under the big skyGROWING BUSINESSES

BUSINESS RESOURCESAt the Montana Department of Commerce,

we know that our economy depends on

local entrepreneurs taking risks to create

job opportunities for themselves and other

Montanans. At the same time, private

enterprise sometimes needs a boost that

can only be provided by the public sector.

We have the tools to help new businesses

start from scratch, and we can help

established businesses expand to reach

their full potential. We believe good-paying

jobs and a highly skilled workforce are the

keys to achieving economic prosperity in

every corner of this great state.

We offer key finance, technical assistance

and information programs for private

businesses, local and regional

development corporations, and local

communities aimed at improving,

enhancing and diversifying Montana’s

economy.

Contact us:

Business Resources DivisionPO Box 200501 | 301 S. Park Ave.

Helena, MT 59620-050

Phone: (406) 841-2720

Fax: (406) 841-2721

http://businessresources.mt.gov

FINANCE

+ Loan and grant programs are available to

businesses across the state; including

workforce training grants, job creation and

planning grants, economic development

grants, research and commercialization

grants and more.

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

+ Technical assistance services are

available to individuals and businesses in

the form of one-on-one counseling,

research and development grant proposal

assistance, and market research

assistance.

INFORMATION

+ Several of our programs provide

information, such as economic information

related to market research, census data

and facts, and the characteristics of our

Montana population.

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

2014 DIRECTORY 17

Through forefront science, engineering, and technology education, research, and outreach, Montana Tech focuses on meeting the changing needs of society. Bioscience efforts encompass vibrant research collaborations in ecology and evolution, restoration ecology, microbiology, hantavirus, nursing, rural and community health, biomaterials,

bacteriophage discovery, and health care informatics. Montana Tech’s faculty and students use the modeling, simulation, and 3-D visualization capability of

MontanaMontana’s high performance computer (HPC), located on campus, to complement laboratory, field, and public-health studies.

Lisa

War

eham

Pho

togr

aphy

www.mtech.edu


The National Institutes of Health& Montana

Montana’s BioMedical ReseaRch PRofile • There are currently five active NIH Institutional Development Award (IDeA) grants held by Montana

institutions. They will build the state’s capacity to carry out research, support promising new faculty,develop expertise in new fields, and provide research opportunities to students.

• GlaxoSmithKline’s site in Hamilton employs 195 people and is the sole manufacturing location for thebiological product MPL (monophosphoryl lipid A), which boost the efficacy of vaccines.

“The most important immediate impact of COBRE funding [NIH IDeA grant] will be to accelerate the research of four talented young investigators on this campus and to provide resources to help UM recruit first-rate faculty at the forefront of biophysical and biomedical research.”

Stephen Sprang, PhD, Director, Center for Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, University of Montana

BY THE NUMBERS:

MoNTaNa IN FY 2013*

$29 Million: NIH funding awarded13: NIH-funded institutions73: NIH grants awarded

*http://report.nih.gov/award/

The National Institutes of Health (NIH)is the nation’s primary medical research agency, supporting research efforts in all 50 states and the district of columbia.

selected nih GRants in Montana fY 2004-13

center/network total distributed center/network total

distributedMontana Network of Biomedical Research

Excellence (IDeA grant)$34,695,471

Center for Zoonotic and Emerging Infectious Diseases (IDeA grant)

$21,138,379

Center for Environmental Health Sciences (IDeA grant)

$18,585,688 Center of Excellence for Research on

Complementary and Alternative Medicine$5,916,715

iMPRovinG Montana’s health thRouGh nih fundinG • Montana State University received $13.5 million in NIH funding in FY 2013. University

researchers discovered how electrons are transported during DNA replication, providingnew targets for cancer drugs and therapies.

• The University of Montana, was awarded NIH grants totaling $8.5 million in FY 2013.University researchers identified a drug that significantly reduces brain injury whenadministered after a stroke in animal models. This treatment is now in clinical trials.

• NIH also supports the Montana Cancer Consortium, which works to increase access tocancer therapy clinical trials for Montana and Northern Wyoming residents.

• Montana is home to the Rocky Mountain Laboratories, one of NIH’s intramural biomedicalresearch facilities. Researchers developed an assay to detect Creutzfeldt-Jacob diseasevariant proteins in blood samples, which could help protect our blood supply.







BY THE NUMBERS:

MoNTaNa IN FY 2013*









$21,138,379















BY THE NUMBERS:

MoNTaNa IN FY 2013*









$21,138,379









2014 DIRECTORY 19

Office of Public Affairs • 9650 Rockville Pike • Bethesda, MD 20814

The National Institutes of Health& MontanaNIH invests $29.2 billion in medical research to benefit the American people.

More than 80% of NIH funding is distributed through approximately 50,000 competitive grants to more than 300,000 researchers at more than 2,500 universities and other institutions throughout the U.S.

NIH’s MISSIoN is to seek fundamental knowledge about the nature and behavior of living systems and the application of that knowledge to enhance health, lengthen life, and reduce the burdens of illness and disability.

http://www.nih.gov/about/mission.htm

“While many Montanans benefit from and appreciate the research discoveries, they may not be aware that these discoveries are made right in their own state. As the number and competitiveness of scientists in our universities, hospitals and research institutes have grown dramatically in the past several years, so too has our success in attracting NIH grants. Considering that about 60 to 70 percent of this funding typically supports salaries, it translates directly into jobs: skilled technical jobs, sustainable jobs and well-paying jobs.”

Richard Bridges, PhD, Chair, Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Montana

investMent in nih ReseaRch Benefits the Montana econoMY • Montana is home to 354 bioscience business establishments.1 From FY 2004-09, NIH awarded

$44.3 million to Montana companies,2 and venture capital firms invested an additional $29.5 million in bioscience firms during this period.3

• Montana State University innovation has led to the formation of start-ups such as BioSurface Technologies Corporation, Ligocyte Pharmaceuticals, and Montana Microbial Products.4

• Montana residents held 2,464 bioscience industry jobs in 2010. In Montana, the 2010 average annual wage was $52,160 for bioscience sector workers compared to the private sector average of $33,236.1

nih sPuRs Montana innovation • Montana received more than $150,000 in NIH grants in FY 2013 to train the next generation

of innovative scientists.2

• Eight Montana businesses received NIH funding totaling $6.2 million during FY 2013 for the research and development of technologies with potential commercial applications.2

• From 2004-09, 105 bioscience-related patents were issued to individuals and entities in Montana, with drugs and pharmaceuticals representing the largest category.3

• A total of 98 clinical trials were initiated at Montana institutes in 2009.3

1 Battelle/BIO 2012 State Bioscience Industry Development Report 2 NIH Research Portfolio Online Reporting Tools (RePORT)

3 Battelle/BIO 2010 State Bioscience Initiatives Reports4 Montana State University, Technology Transfer Office, Start Ups







BY THE NUMBERS:

MoNTaNa IN FY 2013*









$21,138,379















BY THE NUMBERS:

MoNTaNa IN FY 2013*









$21,138,379










2014 Directory

ADVR [email protected]

AdvR Inc., Bozeman, MT, develops, manufactures and sells engineered optical materials, and forward integrated photonic products, such as lasers and modulators. A major portion of AdvR operations are devoted to advancing the use of nonlinear optical materials for a host of wavelength or application specific photonic devices.Additional operations are used to fabricate a steadily expanding number of routinely made items. Its proprietary waveguide and bulk engineering technology is being used to develop lasers to address a host of critical bioscience needs such as lasers for photo acoustic imaging, ultra-precise wavelength control through the use of iodine and other feedback cells, and next generation quantum photon sensing applications. AdvR is seeking to create collaborative product development relationships with Bio-Alliance members, as well as others in the local region.

ALL AMERICAN PHARMACEUTICALBillingswww.allamericanpharmaceutical.comjeffg@allamericanpharmaceutical.com

Full Contract Manufacture of Dietary Supplements (for human and animals) – Powders, Liquids, Capsules & Tablets. They also manufacture topical creams & lotions.

AMERICAN EAGLE INSTRUMENTS [email protected]

Producer of fine quality hand held dental instruments.

[email protected]

Amgen is committed to unlocking the potential of biology for patients suffering from serious illnesses by discovering, developing, manufacturing and delivering innovative human therapeutics. A biotechnology pioneer since 1980, Amgen has reached millions of patients around the world and is developing a pipeline of medicines with breakaway potential.

ATERIS TECHNOLOGIES LLCMissoula and [email protected]@nagyconsult.com

ATERIS Technologies is developing novel diagnostic and medical products that provide an early warning from exposure to environmental and toxic chemicals. Our focus is on uncovering biomarkers resulting from chemical threats that injure the nervous system. Currently under development is a diagnostic testing system for home use and a monitoring system for clinical use for individuals exposed to potentially harmful amounts of organophosphate insecticides. ATERIS also has expertise in retooling pesticide synthesis processes to develop safer and less toxic pesticides.

BACTERIN INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS, [email protected]

Bacterin International Holdings, Inc. (NYSE Amex: BONE) develops, manufactures and markets biologics products to domestic and international markets. Bacterin’s proprietary methods optimize the growth factors in human allografts to create the ideal stem cell scaffold to promote bone, subchondral repair and dermal growth. These products are used in a variety of applications including enhancing fusion in spine surgery, relief of back pain, promotion of bone growth in foot and ankle surgery, promotion of cranial healing following neurosurgery and subchondral repair in knee and other joint surgeries. Bacterin’s Medical Device division develops, employs, and licenses bioactive coatings for various medical device applications. Bacterin’s strategic coating initiatives include antimicrobial coatings designed to inhibit biofilm formation and microbial contamination.

BIOCAPACITY ON DEMANDThree Forkswww.biocapacityondemand.comrob.keene@biocapacityondemand.com

BioCapacity on Demand has developed patented, and now provides a critical need solution for deploying flexible and customizable biologic manufacturing, purification, and sterile fill capabilities. By coupling the two proven technologies of Mobile Medical Coaches with Biologic production systems, BCOD has developed an agile, robust and sustainable manufacturing platform capable of rapidly producing vaccines and other biologics as the need arises. These platforms are ideal for scale up and process development with multiple configurations available, and are superlative for training the workforce in biologic manufacturing, purification and sterile fill. BioCapacity On Demand was incorporated in 2013 and is headquartered in Three Forks, Montana.

Companies


2014 DIRECTORY 21

BIOGRAFTS [email protected]

BioGrafts helps to improve patient care by offering the most efficient service for locating and acquiring the highest quality allografts for transplantation.

Our experience and partnerships with some of the industry’s most respected processors enable us to help customers control costs without compromising safety or quality.

BIO PRED [email protected]

Computational bioactivity prediction company. Computational chemistry modeling for discovery and development of pharmaceuticals.

BIOSCIENCE LABORATORIES, [email protected]

BioScience Laboratories, Inc. was founded in 1991 in Bozeman, MT, to provide antimicrobial product testing and result interpreta-tion grounded in science. Today, BioScience Laboratories offers state-of-the art clinical study and laboratory services and guidance regarding federal regulatory agency requirements for the health-care, pharmaceutical, personal care and consumer products mar-kets. BioScience Laboratories’ industry-leading scientific exper-tise is coupled with genuine care and concern to fulfill our clients’ needs. Our focus on customer service is based on the Montana tradition of welcoming hospitality.

BIOSURFACE TECHNOLOGIES [email protected]

BioSurface Technologies Corporation provides innovative products that grow, measure, and evaluate biofilms and biofilm processes to aid product development and process control, and to increase our understanding of fundamental biofilm processes. BioSurface Technologies is providing innovative products and technology to industry and researchers world-wide.

BRIDGER PHOTONICS, [email protected]

Bridger Photonics, Inc. specializes in lasers and laser-based measurement systems. Their proprietary technologies lead to metrology products with unsurpassed resolution, gas detection, and 3D imaging capabilities. The company has developed the highest resolution distance measurement systems in the world, and the only affordable, compact, mid-infrared, high-energy pulsed laser for gas detection. Their technologies identify sources of pollution, improve manufacturing quality and efficiency, and help in the fight against illicit drug use.

BRIDGER TECHNOLOGIES, Inc. (BTI)[email protected]

Bridger Technologies has invented and is producing technology for rapid detection of pathological and other biological forensic targets important to the medical, food/water safety, defense, intelligence, and homeland security markets. Bridged Element Analyte Response (BEAR™) sensor technology is simpler, faster, and a more reliable cost effective alternative to all other diagnostic tools. BEARtrack™ forensics enable real-time DNA fingerprinting analysis for instant identification or tracking of targeted individuals and crime victims. Bridger Technologies, Inc. designs and produces devices that integrate biological molecules into electronic components. Its instruments are used in the detection and identification of various chemical and biological agents. The company serves medical, food/water safety, and military and homeland security markets. Bridger Technologies, Inc. was incorporated in 2003 and is headquartered in Bozeman, Montana.

COMFORT [email protected]

Produces comprehensive line of seating and positioning equipment for the geriatric and rehabilitation patient.

CONSERVATION BIOLOGY [email protected]

A nonprofit biology consulting, research, and education company.

[email protected]

DermaXon is a Missoula-based preclinical-stage drug discovery company providing first in-class molecules including hits, leads and clinical candidates. DermaXon works to discover and develop novel therapeutic strategies to treat and prevent life-threatening chronic diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, ichtyosis and neuropathic pain. DermaXon has an innovative chemical entities pipeline targeting G protein Coupled Receptors, Nuclear Receptors and Cytochrome CYP26s. DermaXon has been selected to receive Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I funding from NIH.

DIKARYON BIOTECHNOLOGIES [email protected]

Dikaryon Biotechnologies Limited in Missoula, MT is a private company doing Product Analysis & Testing, R&D, Full service testing lab.


2014 Directory

ELKHORN MOUNTAIN CYTOLOGYHelenawww.elkhornmountaincytology.comthehellman@rocketmail.comElkhorn Mountain Cytology is a well-established cytology laboratory located in Helena, Montana. As a small company they have the ability to be dedicated to every client. They are committed to provide customer service to all our Health Care Providers and their patients.

FISHER SCIENTIFICPittsburgh, PA [email protected]

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE: TMO) is the world leader in serving science. Our mission is to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. With revenues of over $12 billion, we have approximately 37,000 employees and serve customers within pharmaceutical and biotech companies, hospitals and clinical diagnostic labs, universities, research institutions and government agencies, as well as in environmental and process control industries. We create value for our key stakeholders through two premier brands, Thermo Scientific and Fisher Scientific, which offer a unique combination of continuous technology development and the most convenient purchasing options. Our products and services help accelerate the pace of scientific discovery, and solve analytical challenges ranging from complex research to routine testing to field applications

Our family of global service brands provide a complete portfolio of laboratory equipment, chemicals, supplies and services for research, safety, healthcare and science education.

GENECTAR COM [email protected]

Genectar Com LLC applies research in comparative genomics to health in man and animals. Current effort is final construction details and complete stocking of the new laboratory in Columbia Falls following a grant from the U.S. Qualifying Therapeutic Discovery Program. Genectar is preparing a Third Edition of “Principles of Toxicology” for crcpress.com. The President participated in the 21st International Pigment Cell Conference, Bordeaux, Life Science Innovation Northwest 2013, Seattle, WBBA Leadership Conference 2013, Spokane, and the Arthropod Genomics Symposium, Notre Dame University, June 2013. Genectar presented an invited seminar to the NSF-supported Biotechnology class at Flathead Valley Community College, Kalispell, February 2014.

GENENTECH Inc.San [email protected]

Considered the founder of the industry, Genentech, now a member of the Roche Group, has been delivering on the promise of biotechnology for over 35 years. At Genentech, we use human genetic information to discover, develop, manufacture and commercialize medicines to treat patients with serious or life-

Jack ManningPartner, Missoula Office Head 125 Bank Street, Suite 600Missoula, MT 59802-4407406.721.6025 [email protected]

Dorsey is proud to support biotechnology and life sciences companies as they shape the landscape of Montana and beyond.

corporate formation • intellectual property • venture capital • securities • mergers & acquisitions • regulatory • project finance

continued next page

2014 DIRECTORY 23


threatening medical conditions. Today, we are among the world’s leading biotech companies, with multiple products on the market and a promising development pipeline.

GENESEARCH, [email protected]

GeneSearch is a company created for the development of a new kind of device for biopsy and freezing of pre-implantation embryos. The GeneSearch Embroyo Cradle and its laser-drilled biopsy probe allow researchers and clinicians to do survival biopsy and volume reduction before freezing of early embryos of all mammalian species at all pre-implantation stages of development. They are funded by a high priority grant from NIH.

GOLDEN HELIX [email protected]

Founded in Bozeman, Montana in 1998, Golden Helix, strives to enable the genetics research and translational genomics community by producing high quality software to analyze large genomic datasets and empowering their users to perform high end analytics work. Every day they create extraordinary analytic and technological advancements that empower scientists around

the world to pursue that which is truly significant: from uncovering the genetic causes of disease and transforming drug discovery to developing genetic diagnostics and advancing the quest for personalized medicine. The company’s products have been cited in over 800 peer reviewed articles, and customers include some of the world’s leading biotech, government and academic research organizations.

GRAY MATTER RESEARCHBozemanwww.graymatter-research.comcmgray@graymatter-research.com

Gray Matter Research designs and fabricates mechanical and electronic instrumentation for researchers that conduct electrophysiological studies of brain function.

GSK [email protected]

GSK Vaccines is one of the world’s leading vaccine manufacturers, supplying around 25% of the world’s vaccines. The GSK vaccines adjuvant produced in Hamilton Montana is a key element in Cervarix, a vaccine used to prevent cervical cancer along with other candidate vaccines.

McLaughlin Research Institute is a center for neurogenetic research on Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other degenerative nerve diseases. Our work to understand neurodegeneration is the foundation for medical advances that will prevent and cure these devastating diseases. The Institute is an independent, nonprofit organization located in Great Falls, Montana.

As an independent mouse-only facility, we provide mouse space and genetic expertise at an exceptionally low cost.

Animal Resource Center• 13,290sqftfacility• SpecificPathogenFree• Capacity:~8000cages• FullyAAALACaccredited• Pre-Clinicaltrials• Mutagenesisscreensfornoveldrugtargets• Diseasemodeling• Identificationofdiseasemodifiers• Generationoftransgenicandgene-targetedmice• Agingstudiesandproductionofagedmice

McLaughlin Research Institute welcomes collaborations and contracts.

McLaughlin Research Institutefor Biomedical Sciences

1520 23rd Street SouthGreat Falls, MT 59405

Phone 406.452.6208

Fax 406.454.6019

mclaughlinresearch.org


2014 Directory

HANGER PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICSBillings/Buttewww.hanger.com

Leading provider of orthotic/prosthetic products and services.

INFECTIOUS DISEASE SPECIALISTS, PCMissoulahttp://[email protected]

Infectious Disease Specialists is an organization dedicated to the practice, promotion and dissemination of information regarding the dynamic field of clinical infectious diseases. As such, we conduct clinical research, care for patients, and develop educational materials for institutions, health care professionals and their patients, and the media.

INJECTION [email protected]

Injection Technologies is an exciting, dynamic early-stage medical device company sharply focused on commercializing a unique technology platform that utilizes a revolutionary method for automating the delivery of synthetic, autologous, allogeneic and bioactive fluids, gels, and matrices in pre-specified volume quantities.Using a patented injection control device, Injection Technologies’ overarching goal is to provide the physician with a hand-held instrument that distributes a reproducible amount of material within soft and osseous tissues.

INFORMED [email protected]

Informed Bioscience is a bioinformatics consulting company located in Bozeman Montana. The company provides algorithmic consulting to the bioscience industry. The company initially formed to address an important application in proteomics. This problem is the difficulty of modeling the surface of protein for the purposes of drug design. EPIMAP, the company’s initial software application predicts the epitope surface of a protein using an approach called antibody imprinting. The software is built around advanced algorithms developed by Dr. Brendan Mumey at Montana State University.

INNOVATIVE LABORATORY SYSTEMS INC.Rockford, [email protected]

Innovative Laboratory Systems, Inc. has been building laboratories and supplying laboratory furniture and equipment since 1989. ILS clients represent the industrial, medical, pharmaceutical and educational markets, chemical and food industries and various government agencies. By focusing on a select group of the highest quality product lines, ILS achieves a long-term relationship between our clients and the manufacturers they represent.

ITI [email protected]

Physicians & Surgeons Equipment & Supplies-Manufacturers, Assembly & Fabricating Service

JOHNSON & [email protected]

Johnson & Johnson, through its operating companies, is the world’s most comprehensive and broadly based manufacturer of health care products, as well as a provider of related services, for the consumer, pharmaceutical, and medical devices and diagnostics markets. The more than 250 Johnson & Johnson operating companies employ approximately 119,000 men and women in 57 countries and sell products throughout the world. The fundamental objective of Johnson & Johnson is to provide scientifically sound, high quality products and services to help heal, cure disease and improve the quality of life. This is a goal that began with the Company’s founding in 1886.

THE JON BLOCK GROUPSan Francisco, [email protected]

The Jon Block Group serves many of the world’s top life sciences firms, providing senior-level management with strategic advisory services, focusing on clinical trial design, development, interpretation, and presentation. The group consists of PHD-level clinical trialists specializing in strategy, trial design, protocol development and biostatistics, with an extraordinary ability to craft compelling scientific stories from disparate sources of data. They are often engaged to develop and maintain an effective publication strategy for their clients. One that supports expanded commercialization and reimbursement efforts, and bolsters company value. Their fast-growing global client base covers a broad spectrum of industry segments, including oncology, diabetes, orthopedics, respiratory diseases, neurology, spine and virology.

KCI MEDCLAIMDillonwww.kci1.com/

KCI is committed to helping patients heal. For over thirty years, they have led the way in the development of new technologies, medicines and therapies designed to make wound healing more manageable for caregivers and more comfortable for patients around the world.

LEGACY BIOSCIENCE, [email protected]

Legacy BioScience, LLC is a biotechnology consulting and laboratory services firm representing decades of experience in the application of physics, microbiology, biochemistry, molecular

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2014 DIRECTORY 25

www.mon tanab io .o rg

biology, engineering, and nanotechnology. This broad spectrum of expertise often provides creative solutions where concentrated efforts in one specific direction fails to provide clarity. Private sector and government entities have secured our consulting services to quickly identify specific solutions, or support and expedite management of entire projects.

MEDIMMUNE, LLCGaithersburg, [email protected]

In the world of biologics, MedImmune has established itself as a true visionary, with one of the most robust pipelines in the biopharmaceutical industry. From groundbreaking research and development, to state-of-the-art manufacturing, to product commercialization, every day we’re touching lives. We’re proudly united by the spirit of innovation, the heart of inspiration, and the strength of integration, as we advance science for better health.

MERCK SHARP & DOHMEWhitehouse Station, New Jerseywww.merck.com/[email protected]

Research and development of novel pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and biotechnologies.

MESA LABORATORIES INC.Bozeman, MT and Omaha, NE http://biologicalindicators.mesalabs.com/[email protected]

Mesa Labs’ offers biological indicators for steam, ethylene oxide (EO), hydrogen peroxide, dry heat, and other various industrial processes. These biological indicators are used for the evaluation of sterilization processes throughout pharmaceutical and medical device industries worldwide.

MICROBION CORPORATIONBozemanwww.microbioncorp.combbaker@[email protected]

Microbion is a clinical stage biotechnology company dedicated to the development of its proprietary antimicrobial, anti-biofilm bismuth-thiol (BT) family of compounds as therapeutic agents for the treatment of human infections. These innovative agents are also being developed as anti-infective coatings for medical devices, and as anti-biofouling agents for industrial processes. We have successfully completed Phase 1 clinical studies to evaluate the safety of our lead BT topical gel (BisEDT) in normal human volunteers. Microbion plans to file an Investigational New Drug (IND) application with the FDA, leading to initiation of multi-center Phase 2 clinical studies to evaluate the safety and efficacy of BisEDT for the treatment of post-surgical orthopedic device-associated infections. In August, 2013 BisEDT was designated as a “Qualified Infectious Disease Product” (QIDP) by the FDA for this lead indication. QIDP designates are eligible for an accelerated FDA approval process, and upon approval, for an additional five

years of market exclusivity. Microbion is currently one of only two clinical-stage QIDP companies advancing an antimicrobial drug with a new mechanism of action, as well as the only company to have been awarded QIDP for the treatment of orthopedic device-related infections. Planning is underway for a second Phase 2 clinical study to evaluate the efficacy of BisEDT for treatment of chronic wound infections. Upcoming research will also be directed at inhaled delivery of BTs for treatment of lung infections due to cystic fibrosis, COPD, tuberculosis, and pneumonia. Microbion is actively seeking partners for use of BTs and has entered into Material Transfer Agreements (MTAs) with 11 multinational companies in health and industrial sectors spanning wound care, medical device, animal health, agriculture, and industrial applications.

M.J. [email protected]

Available for consultation. Extensive experience in all phases of preclinical, clinical and regulatory affairs for drug and device development in small biotech and large pharmaceutical companies. Many interactions with FDA resulting in product registration.

MONTANA MEDICAL RESEARCH INC.Missoulawww.montanamedicalresearch.comclinical@montanamedicalresearch.com

Clinical Trial Research in a broad spectrum of therapeutic specialties.

MONTANA MICROBIAL PRODUCTS, [email protected]

MONTANA MOLECULAR [email protected]

Founded in 2004, Montana Molecular develops cell-based assays and fluorescent reporters for biotechnology research and drug discovery. The scientific team is focused on breakthrough innovations supported by over 10 years of experience in the design of genetically encoded fluorescent proteins.

MONTANA POLYSACCHARIDES CORP.Winnsboro, SC [email protected]

Montana Polysaccharides Corp. is a research and development company focusing on the use of microorganisms as a source for natural products.

MORTECH [email protected]

Custom medical device manufacturing.

2014 DIRECTORY 27


MORTAN [email protected] www.mortan.com

Surgical/medical devices for ocular treatment.

MPA TECHNOLOGIES INC.Bozemanwww.sensopath.com

R&D company focusing on new methods for cancer detection and cancer treatment.

NANOVALENT PHARMACEUTICALS [email protected]

NanoValent Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NVP) is a biotechnology company developing a highly stable, easily manufactured, platform drug delivery technology capable of delivering a wide array of pharmaceutical agents. This platform technology consists of biocompatible, targeted polymeric particles with substantial advantages over other particle/liposomal drug delivery systems. The company has three drug candidates ready for pre-IND trials. NVP will focus on several niche areas including vaccines, anti-inflammatory, cancer therapeutics (Ewing’s Sarcoma and Non-small cell lung cancer), and RNAi drug delivery.

NERVONIX INCBozemanwww.nervonix.com

Nerve Imaging and related products for medical industry.

[email protected]

Neuralynx has been providing Electrophysiology and Neuroscience researchers with the highest quality single-unit, multi-channel Electrophysiology recording equipment since 1993. Our products represent the “state of the art” in high density Data Acquisition & Experiment Control solutions. The strength of the company is their ability to design and develop hardware and software solutions which integrate seamlessly, providing our clients with extremely flexible recording platforms.

NEURO 7J&R ENTERPRISES [email protected]

The Neuro 7 concept was created by a board-certified emergency physician to simplify the lives of medical professionals. The Neuro 7 is a state of the art instrument for the 21st century medical professional.

NEUROGENIC TECHNOLOGIES [email protected]

Medical and scientific devices for restorative neurology, rehabilitation and sports medicine.

NORTHWEST BIOTECHNOLOGY COMPANYAnchorage, [email protected]

Consulting and Research on genetics for environmental, livestock, and wildlife. Developing our resources for research and education.

NUTRITIONAL LABORATORIES INTERNATIONALMissoulawww.nutrionallabs.com [email protected]

Homeophatic Dietary Supplement Contractual manufacturer

OMEGA BIOLOGICALS [email protected]

Proprietary technology for proteins used in medical diagnostic test kits.

[email protected]

OncoPharmacia is a company located in Bozeman dedicated to progressing new cancer drugs to help real patients. The platform for progress rests in the complicated biological pathways that exist in difficult to treat resistant cancers. The ongoing opportunity to bring a Montana invented cancer drug to fruition is exciting. The product platform is supported by rigorous National Cancer Institute (NCI) screening. The most recent OncoPharmacia prototype scored a 32 in the advanced NCI in vivo hollow fiber assay screening process.

This NCI 32 derived score surpasses most clinical cancer drugs used in the clinic today. OncoPharmacia welcomes more enthusiasts with a vendetta against cancer.

PFIZER INC.New York, [email protected]

Pfizer Inc. is the world’s largest research-based pharmaceutical company. Pfizer Inc. discovers, develops, manufactures and markets leading prescription medicines.

PROPHARMA GROUPBozemanwww.propharmagroup.comhardip.dosange@propharmagroup.com

ProPharma Group provides comprehensive compliance solutions to the global pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device industries. The experts at ProPharma Group enable our customers

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2014 Directory

to achieve continuous compliance and improve their operations in a complex and changing regulatory environment. Our customers come to us because of seasoned professionals, expertise, and the practical solutions we provide. They stay with us because we understand what it takes to deliver a project in-budget, on time, and in compliance.

PROMILIAD BIOPHARMA [email protected]

Promiliad Biopharma is an innovative drug discovery company that creates novel natural product-like small molecules in combinatorial arrays. Promiliad has developed a proprietary and unique approach to the drug discovery process, a technology called ReBACS (Recombinant Biotechnology Assisted Combinatorial Synthesis). The natural product-based feedstock generated by ReBACS offers a complex and rich structural diversity, simplifies the synthetic challenge in drug discovery and increases the probability of generating new lead compounds. They facilitate the identification of lead compounds, the preparation of focused libraries and the efficient scale up of lead production. Based on our natural product-like compound arrays, Promiliad Biopharma has established internal drug discovery programs that are focused on the development of new antibacterial and antifungal agents

PYRON TECHNOLOGIESMissoulawww.pyrontechnologies.com

Medical compliance consulting.

QUAD [email protected]

Offers high quality donor animal blood products.

QUANTEL MEDICAL [email protected]

Founded in 1993 and headquartered in Clermont-Ferrand, France, Quantel Medical is a global ophthalmic medical device company dedicated to developing leading technologies to improve the treatment of ocular diseases. Quantel Medical has a strong emphasis in research and development, resulting in many first-to-market product introductions and a comprehensive product portfolio of diagnostic ultrasound and surgical lasers for ophthalmologists. These products are available through direct sales operations in the U.S. and France, and through independent distributors in over 80 countries.

QUANTEL [email protected]

Quantel, USA, headquartered in Bozeman, MT is owned by the Quantel Group, an international leader in the design and manufacture of high-power, pulsed laser systems and technologies for research, industrial, commercial, military, and medical

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Coming Soon…The future of Allied Health and Science in Billings.

Unwrap Yellowstone Hall atwww.msubillings.edu/yellowstonehall


2014 DIRECTORY 29

applications. Quantel, USA, formerly Big Sky Laser, has been designing and building pulsed, solid-state lasers at their Bozeman location for over 25 years.

RASIRIS [email protected]

R&D company focusing on development of materials for noninvasive treatment of cancerous tumors and macular degeneration of eye.

[email protected]

Resodyn Corporation is developing biotechnology devices and processes with applications to microbial, mammalian cell, and stem cell cultivation as well as tissue engineering. Resodyn Corporation’s RAMbio cultivation devices offer a superior alternative to orbital shakers for microbial cultivation. Future products in the RAM product line will include devices that will enhance tissue engineering unit operations including hydration, seeding, and cultivation in three dimensional scaffolds. Advanced stem cell-related products in the research phase include devices for isolation of mesenchymal stem cells, and artificial accessory cells for stimulating the cultivation of stem cells for therapeutic applications. Resodyn Corporation is also actively developing low-cost, field-deployable biosensor devices based on surface plasmon resonance technologies. The biosensor devices will have applications in food safety monitoring, military threat detection and medical diagnostics.

[email protected]

Resonon was founded in 2002 to apply state-of-the-art hyperspectral imaging technology to applications in biotechnology, agriculture, mining and manufacturing. Resonon provides compact, rugged, cost-effective hyperspectral machine vision systems that integrate to robots or air-jet arrays that can be deployed in a variety of environments

RIO PHARMACEUTICALSMissoulawww.riopharmaceuticals.comcontact@riopharmaceuticals.com

RIO Pharmaceuticals is an early state biotech company founded in 2007 to commercialize molecules that biomark specific target proteins in the central nervous system. These patented PET imaging tracers have the potential to help understand, diagnose, and follow new thereapies for neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease as well as neuropsychiatric conditions such as depression.

RIVERTOP [email protected]

Applying oxidation technology to renewable resources, Rivertop Renewables™ produces novel chemicals that help customers improve the performance, cost position and sustainability of their products.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN [email protected]

RMBIO is a global manufacturer of high quality, specialized biological products, including lipoprotein and cholesterol solutions, bovine serum albumin (BSA), sera, and water for injection products. RMBIO’s products are manufactured and tested according to GMP requirements, and their processes have been awarded the International Serum Industry Association’s prestigious Certificate of Traceability. RMBIO’s top-quality, high-performance products are sourced from domestic (U.S.) and Australian/New Zealand raw material for use as cell culture growth factors and diagnostic test materials. These products are used by many of the world’s largest pharmaceutical, biotechnology, diagnostic, animal health and research institutions.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN [email protected]

Rocky Mountain Pharmacy is a compounding pharmacy striving to provide a valuable service by creating customized medications in order to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes for our patients. Our medications are tailor made for each patient based on the physician’s and the patient’s unique needs

ROC [email protected]

Reach Out and Care Wheels (ROC Wheels): ROC Wheels is based in Bozeman, Montana and is a 501 (c)(3) faith-based non-profit that provides mobility and hope to people in developing countries by bringing them specialized wheelchairs. ROC empowers youth to change the world by teaching them how to use their talents to sponsor and build ROC wheel chairs for children living with disabilities and poverty in less resourced countries

SAJE PHARMAKalispellwww.sajepharma.com [email protected]@sajepharma.com

SAJE Pharma is a private, biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of novel drugs for asthma, COPD, and cardiovascular diseases. The first drug for asthma is ready for the final preclinical work necessary for an IND. That drug, SPL-334, is active by inhalation and more potent than dexamethasone at reducing inflammation in mouse asthma. SAJE’s other drugs are in

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2014 Directory

research for COPD and cardiovascular diseases. Formed in 2009, SAJE has operated virtually with its two founders and a wide range of academic and CRO collaborators.

SALIENT TECHNOLOGIES [email protected]

Research and development in medical diagnostic and advanced material applications.

SANOFI, INC.West Bend WIwww.sanofi.com [email protected]

Sanofi is a global biotechnology, pharmaceutical, vaccines, veterinary, and consumer health products company.

SENSOPATH TECHNOLOGIES [email protected]

SensoPath Technologies, Inc. makes active surface chemistries for biosensors and diagnostic devices, fluorescent dyes and particles for tracking and diagnostic assays, and small molecule intermediates for organic synthesis, all with a global customer base. We also develop and optimize new photodynamic therapy drugs for treatment of cancer and multi-drug resistant bacteria.

SINAPIS [email protected]

Sinapsis Pharma is a promising new biotechnology company focused on the development of neuroprotective agents for the treatment of acute central nervous system (CNS) injury. They have obtained robust preclinical data on their lead compound (methamphetamine), which has an extensive safety profile at indicated doses and is currently approved world-wide by all regulatory authorities for indications not related to neuroprotection.

SMK PLANTSBillingswww.smkplants.com [email protected]

SMK Plants is an innovative plant tissue culture company. They specialize in quality herbaceous ornamental perennials for the wholesale nursery business. They also produce native plants for both the ornamental business and for mine land reclamation.

SNIDER TECHNOLOGY [email protected]

Software/hardware platform to speed the identification of proteins and identify post translational modifications from mass spectrometry data.

SPECIALTY SURGICAL PRODUCTS INC.Victorwww.ssp-inc.com

Manufacturer of surgical instruments with expertise in silicone medical device technology.

SUCCESS GROUP [email protected]

Technology development company. Maker of pidiumTM, an antimicrobial device

SUMMIT CORPORATE SERVICES [email protected]

For over a decade, Summit Corporate Services has been providing customizable sales and distribution solutions to the Life Science industry. We represent small start-ups looking to launch quickly, market leaders wanting to simplify operations, and international companies expanding into the U.S. market. Summit’s seamless services offer cost effective solutions, saving clients as much as 50-75% over developing and managing in-house operations. Our clients utilize Summit’s proven business systems, freeing up valuable time and resources allowing them to remain focused on the most critical aspects of their business including R&D and establishing sales. Summit is ISO 13485 and 9001 certified and FDA registered.

SERVICEQUALITYINNOVATION

BIOSCIENCE LABORATORIES INC

EXPERIENCE SCIENTIFIC EXPERTISE WITH MONTANA HOSPITALIT YBozeman, MT is home to BioScience Laboratories, Inc.,a multidisciplinary contract research organization that specializes in a multitude of in-vitro & clinical trials. BioScience Laboratories maintains GLP-& GCP-compliant clinical facilities that have been successfully audited by regulatory bodies as well as sponsoring clients.

IN-VITRO | CLINICALSTART-TO-FINISH SOLUTIONS PRODUCT CONCEPT

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT FDA REGISTERATIONMARKET LAUNCH

[email protected]

CONTACT BIOSCIENCE LABORATORIES:

R

BSLI HAS SUCCESSFULLY PERFORMED OVER1,500 CLINICAL STUDIES DURING ITS 22-YEAR HISTORY

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SUSTAINABLE BIOPRODUCTS LLCBozemanwww.sustainablebioproducts.comweb@sustainablebioproducts.com

Sustainable Bioproducts LLC is a development stage company with a wide range of products and technologies for industrial applications. Our mission is to bring sustainable products to market for a cleaner healthier planet.

SWAN VALLEY MEDICAL [email protected]

Swan Valley Medical develops and manufactures sophisticated, urological, single-use, surgical instruments to improve clinical outcomes with lower procedure costs for existing procedures. The T-SPeC® cleared in the U.S. and international markets for the treatment of urinary retention and incontinence. T-SPeC® is a revolutionary new instrument designed to precisely place an 18 Fr. suprapubic catheter, initiating a 5mm incision, under controlled guidance, from inside the bladder (starting at the target). T-SPeC® effectively addresses complicated cases (neurogenic and large patients), an alternative to an open cystotomy in a minimally invasive 5-minute procedure. T-SPeC® – taking complications out of suprapubic cystostomy.

TAKEDA VACCINES INC. [email protected]

Takeda Vaccines (formerly LygoCyte pharmaceuticals), is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of vaccines that prevent human infectious diseases primarily in the respiratory and gastrointestinal markets. Takeda Vaccines is part of Takeda Pharmaceuticals’ Vaccine Business Division (VBD) which was launched in January 2012. LigoCyte was incorporated in 1998 and acquired by Takeda in October 2012. Takeda Vaccines operates a development facility in Bozeman, Montana. Takeda has advanced its proprietary vaccines into human clinical testing, positioning Takeda for growth and success in the vaccine industry. Takeda is a global company with 18 research centers throughout the world, conducting business in 70 countries, with over 200 years of history and over 30,000 employees.

TRANSYNAPTIC TECHNOLOGIES [email protected]

Transynaptic Technologies LLC was formed in Montana in the spring of 2006 to commercialize technologies developed in the Center for Structural and Functional Neuroscience at the University of Montana. The company is focused on design and production of novel molecules for research and therapeutic applications in neurology. It is currently involved in both licensing and commercial production.

Bacterin is the only tissue bank in Montana, focusing on novel designs for medical devices and biologics right in the heart of the Gallatin Valley.

Did you know just one donor can save or enhance the lives of over 50 people? Visit bacterin.com/about/bacterin-supporting-donate-life/ to learn more

about the gift of organ and tissue donation.

The Gift of Donation withFamily Consent

Recovery and Transferof Tissue

Bacterin Sterilely Processes and

Packages Tissue

Tissue is Shipped via aValidated Carrier

Hospital AcceptsTissue

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Belgrade, MT


2014 Directory

US BIOREMEDIATION, INC.Salt Lake City, [email protected]

US BioRemediation, Inc. is commercializing microbial biological mechanisms for cost-effective environmental remediation. Initial company focus is remediation of acid mine drainage (AMD) sites where discharge or stored water has a pH less than 3. The Company’s proprietary technology licensed from Montana Tech of the University of Montana (Butte, MT) uses microbial extremophiles isolated from the Berkeley Pit Superfund site to quickly extract toxic metals from highly acidic solutions to reduce the cost of follow-on remediation steps, and to reclaim and recycle removed metals. The Company is currently expanding its intellectual property base by characterizing microbial growth parameters, determining phenotypic properties, and performing key genome sequencing for licensed species. Planned follow-on work includes characterization and optimization of macromolecules involved in metal binding and sequestration.

US DENTAL CORP.Lakesidewww.usdentalcorp.com

Manufactures dental equipment and supplies.

VWR [email protected]

VWR is a global leader in the distribution of laboratory products, supplies and services, offering the best product choices, including the Exclusive VWR Collection, from premier manufacturers to customers around the globe.

WESTBREDBozemanwww.westbred.com

A joint venture aimed at developing and distributing enhanced small grains varieties.

WESTSCAPE NURSERYBelgradewww.westscapenursery.net

Westscape is a wholesale grower of containerized plant material located near Bozeman, MT; operating since 1997. Owners, Laura Smith and Robert Dunn have some 50+ years of combined growing and greenhouse experience in the region.

WINTERMUTE BIOMEDICAL LLCMissoulahttp://wintermutebiomedical.com/[email protected]

At Wintermute Biomedical, the focus is on the development of novel anti-viral and anti-microbial agents that can be used to treat skin infections.They are currently developing an anti-bacterial/anti-fungal compound that does not utilize traditional antibiotics.

ZDYE LLCGallatin Gatewaywww.zdye.com [email protected]

A Bozeman Montana company, Zdye LLC, is developing a family of unique multicolor fluorescent dyes (Zdyes) with properties optimized for detection of proteins, protein post-translational modifications, and protein enyzmatic activities in proteonomics and diagnostics. The principal use of Zdyes is to determine differences in proteins, protein isoforms, and enzyme activities when comparing different complex protein mixtures. These protein differences provide deeper understanding of biological mechanisms that in turn lead to enhanced drug discovery or more productive research in the design of new diagnostics in biomedical, agricultural fields, and bioenergy fields. Zdye LLC has been established to license, develop and market Zdye products for proteomics and diagnostic applications.

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www.mon tanab io .o rg2014 Directory

Research and Healthcare InstitutionsADVANCED CARE HOSPITAL OF MONTANABillingswww.achm.ernesthealth.com

At Advanced Care Hospital of Montana, the newest member of the Big Sky health care continuum, they believe that recovery means more than just physical. At their new state-of-the-art facility, they offer long-term acute care and critical care services for patients recovering from serious illnesses or injuries.

AMERICAN INDIAN RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIESBozemanwww.montana.edu/[email protected]

American Indian Research Opportunities (AIRO) is a consortium of Montana’s seven Tribal Colleges (Blackfeet Community College, Chief Dull Knife College, Aaniiih Nakoda College, Fort Peck Community College, Little Big Horn College, Salish Kootenai College, and Stone Child College) and Montana State University in Bozeman, dedicated to providing opportunities for American Indian students in career fields where they are significantly underrepresented. The advisory board to the AIRO consortium consists of representatives from each of the seven tribal colleges and Montana State University-Bozeman.

BILLINGS CLINIC Billingswww.billingsclinic.com/[email protected]@billingsclinic.org

Billings Clinic is a not-for-profit health care organization structured as a medical foundation that serves Montana, northern Wyoming and the western Dakotas. A member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, Billings Clinic is a physician-led, integrated health care organization and is the largest employer in the county which includes 260 physicians and 90 advanced practitioners offering more than 50 specialties. Our vision is to be a national leader in providing the best clinical quality, patient safety, service and value. The Billings Clinic Downtown campus consists of a 285-bed Magnet-designated hospital, Level II Emergency and Trauma Center, Inpatient Cancer Care Unit, Surgery Center, and a multi-specialty clinic. Billings Clinic conducts both clinical and health services research across the organization, including nursing research and research conducted as part of an internal medicine residency. Areas of concentration include cancer and endocrinology, although many departments are actively involved in research. Our research professionals help to coordinate clinical trials and conduct health services research located at our site, throughout Billings Clinic, and across the region, state and nation. Billings Clinic also organizes a sanctioned and regional science fair for over 500 students from 24 counties each spring.

COMMUNITY MEDICAL [email protected]

Community Medical Center is a 146-bed hospital in Missoula, accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. The medical center’s services include the Rehabilitation Institute of Montana, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities; orthopedics; perinatology, obstetrics, newborn/pediatric acute care and intensive care units, and pediatric surgery; The Montana Heart Center, featuring interventional cardiology, electrophysiology and cardiac rehabilitation; a 24/7 Level III trauma center and the CareFlight air transport program; urgent care; diagnostic imaging services, including 64-slice CT scanning; sleep medicine; a diabetes and nutrition center; respiratory services; a primary and specialty physician network; and the Montana Pain Institute. Western Montana’s Ronald McDonald House is located on the CMC campus.

FLATHEAD VALLEY COMMUNITY [email protected]

Flathead Valley Community College is one of three public community colleges that are located in Montana. Currently their research is focused on using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry to study protein structure and dynamics.

INTERNATIONAL HEART INSTITUTEOF MONTANA FOUNDATIONMissoulahttp://[email protected]

The International Heart Institute of Montana Foundation (IHIMF) is an educational and research center for basic, applied and clinical research in the treatment of heart disease. The IHIMF operates a Tissue Engineering Laboratory for the development of new tissue treatments and devices such as vascular conduits for bypass grafts, heart valves and patches. The IHIMF trains surgeons in the latest techniques for repair and replacement of cardiac valves and hosts an annual symposium on Heart Valves. The IHIMF is a partnership between the University of Montana and Providence Saint Patrick Hospital.

MCLAUGHLIN RESEARCH INSTITUTE FOR BIOMEDICAL SCIENCESGreat [email protected]

McLaughlin Research Institute is an independent, non-profit research organization. Research at the institute focuses on understanding the genetic control of normal development and disease susceptibility using the mouse as a model system. The institute fosters a collegial, interactive environment, minimizing bureaucratic impediments to research.


2014 Directory

MONTANA CANCER INSTITUTEMONTANA NEUROSCIENCE INSTITUTEMissoulawww.montanacancerinstitutefoundation.orgwww.mnif.umt.educlaukes@saintpatrick.org

The Montana Neuroscience Foundation and Montana Cancer Institute Foundation promote the integration of research and patient care through collaborations between experts in research and patient care through collaborations between experts in research and clinical medicine and through educational programs.

MONTANA HEALTH RESEARCH [email protected]

Montana Health Research Institute (MHRI) was established in 1997. MHRI is an experienced multi-therapeutic medical research facility dedicated to providing high quality Phase II, III and IV clinical trials. Our research staff has NIH and research training certifications to conduct emerging pharmaceuticals or drug comparison studies. In addition to research, MHRI offers Employer Drug Testing services. We also accept physician referrals to conduct bone density (DXA) scans. Results of the scan are sent to the patient’s healthcare provider.

MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY

OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT FOR RESEARCH, CREATIVITY AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFERBozemanwww.montana.edu/[email protected]

Montana State University is one of only 108 universities classified as a Carnegie Foundation top tier research university. This recognizes the significant opportunities for research, scholarship and creative work at MSU. MSU has significant research strengths in energy, biomedical, laser optics, thermopiles, infectious diseases, paleontology, snow science and science and natural history filmmaking. MSU contributes significantly to the economic health of the state through training a qualified, specialized workforce and conducting research that results in new technologies which can be commercialized. Currently, MSU has over 200 licenses of which almost one third are with Montana companies. MSU, with $94 million last year in research expenditures, is the largest research and development entity in the State. To promote the success of business throughout the state, several economic development outreach arms are housed on the MSU campus and provide critical support to business growth and development by supporting area companies: Technology Transfer Office, TechLink,, Montana Manufacturing Extension Center (MMEC) and the Center for Entrepreneurship for the New West.

DEPARTMENT OF CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL ENGINEERING www.chbe.montana.edu [email protected]

The Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering (CHBE) prepares students with the knowledge and skills to contribute to society and their profession. The basis of both chemical and biological engineering is the useful transformation of materials from one form to another. This transformation may be brought about by chemical or biological processes. Both chemical and biological engineers often function as process engineers and research engineers at the graduate level. Both fields are continuing to develop as today’s research efforts create exciting new opportunities. Biological engineers work in many areas: environmental engineering, materials, pharmaceuticals, Bioengineering and biomedicine and the list will continue to expand as the field develops.

CENTER FOR BIOLFILM ENGINEERING www.biofilm.montana.edu [email protected]

At the Center for Biofilm Engineering (CBE), multidisciplinary research teams develop beneficial uses for microbial biofilms and find solutions to industrially relevant biofilm problems. The CBE was established at Montana State University, Bozeman, in 1990 as a National Science Foundation Engineering Research Center. As part of the MSU College of Engineering, the CBE gives students a chance to get a head start on their careers by working on research teams led by world-recognized leaders in the biofilm field.

CENTER FOR BIO-INSPIRED NANO MATERIALSwww.chemistry.montana.edu/nano’[email protected]

The Center for Bio-Inspired NanoMaterials [CBIN] at Montana State University is a multidisciplinary research and education center focused on utilizing and expanding our fundamental understanding of the formation and hierarchical construction of biological materials such as viruses, cells, and biominerals (bones, teeth, seashells etc.). One extension of this fundamental work is the use of biological macromolecular assemblies as templates for the construction of novel functional nano-materials. However, the goal of the Center is to study a wide range of materials, beyond those of biological origin, to achieve unique physical properties by design.

THERMAL BIOLOGY INSTITUTE www.tbi.montana.edu

The Thermal Biology Institute conducts and promotes research and education focused on the biology and interrelated physical and chemical processes of geothermal environments in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

MICROBIOLOGY AND IMMUNOLOGY [email protected]

The Department of Microbiology & Immunology at Montana State University (MSU) has a unique combination of expertise

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in pathogen biology, bioremediation, biofuels, immunology, cell and developmental biology, microbial ecology, host/pathogen interactions, biofilm biology, and geomicrobiology. With this diverse expertise, the department strives to provide a broad and thorough curriculum to both undergraduate and graduate students that are encouraged to cross boundaries and push their studies/research via interactions across departments and colleges.

ENERGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE www.montana.edu/energy [email protected]

The Montana State University Energy Research Institute is an umbrella for MSU’s energy research and education programs, which account for roughly $15 million in research each year. The institute encompasses more than 170 faculty, staff and students spread across 11 university departments who are working fields such as clean-coal technology, fuel cells, wind, coal-bed methane and biofuels. Over the past several years, MSU has developed a number of programs focused on energy, making the university a significant contributor to national and international energy research and development.

MSU was awarded a $67 million research project from DOE to research carbon sequestration.

MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY BILLINGSDEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL & PHYSICAL SCIENCESBillingswww.msubillings.edu/cas/[email protected]

The Department of Biological & Physical Sciences is a combined sciences department with six tenure-track faculty in biology, three tenure-track faculty in chemistry, two tenure-track faculty in Physics and one in earth sciences. The department offers Bachelor of Sciences and Bachelor of Arts degrees in Biology and Chemistry. Students may also further focus their studies in the Biological sub-disciplines of Environmental Sciences, Clinical Laboratory Sciences or Secondary Education. For the Biology major, the required core courses consist of cell biology, genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology and ecology, plus a two-credit research experience. For Chemistry the core course focus on Analytical, Organic, BIochemistry and Physical Chemistry.

COLLEGE OF ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONSBillingswww.msubillings.edu/cahp [email protected]

College of Allied Health Professions is committed to the education of allied health professionals which includes behavioral scientists, health performance, health promotion, rehabilitation counselors, human service professionals, therapeutic science practitioners, exercise science, health administration, and administrative specialists. We are committed in all of our programs to the highest standards of practice which add value to our students, faculty, researchers, community members, and industry leaders for the purpose of health improvement.

MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY [email protected]

Located in Havre, Montana, Montana State University-Northern (MSUN) is north central Montana’s comprehensive university offering programs and services at the associate, baccalaureate, and master’s levels. MSUN also has educational centers in Great Falls (co-located with Great Falls College MSU) and in Lewistown. Degree programs emphasize both technology and liberal arts education. MSUN programs are in the disciplines of business, nursing, diesel technology, teacher education, natural sciences, and humanities. Applied research and service functions are aligned with many of the university’s disciplines and respond directly to the region’s economic and societal needs. Central to MSUN’s research initiatives are the programs of the Bio-Energy Center with its focus on biofuels and heavy-duty diesel engines. The Center is able to conduct comprehensive studies on biofuels, from the seed to fuel processing, fuel testing, engine testing and real time emissions monitoring. The state of the art lab facilities include oilseed pressing, biodiesel pilot plant, oil analysis lab, fuel chemistry lab, engine performance lab and emissions testing facilities.

MONTANA TECH OF THE UNIVERSITY OF [email protected]

Since it’s founding in 1900, Montana Tech has established a strong reputation in science, engineering, and technology education, research, and outreach focused on meeting the changing needs of society. Bioscience efforts encompass vibrant research collaborations in ecology and evolution, restoration ecology, microbiology, hantavirus, nursing, rural and community health and health-care informatics. New directions include work on the effects of nanoparticles on natural systems including virus/host-cell dynamics, nano-based innovations in biomedical sensing and drug delivery, and modeling and 3-D visualization using high-performance computing. Interdisciplinary studies involve faculty and students from the departments of biology, chemistry, health-care informatics, occupational safety and health, nursing, computer science, environmental engineering and others. Numerous degrees and certificate programs at Montana Tech help prepare Montana’s bioscience and biomedical workforce.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN HEALTH [email protected]

Rocky Mountain Health Network was established in 1991 as a provider hospital organization developed to help healthcare providers work more effectively and efficiently. Today, RMHN has more than 500 member and non-member clients, including physicians, hospitals, surgery centers and ancillary providers.


Taking InitiativeIn addition to the wide range of biomedical research happening on campus, UM has announced the Brain Initiative, a collective of faculty thinkers and innovators working together on matters of the mind. In the past five years, UM has received $150 million in health and bioscience research funding, including grants supporting cutting-edge brain research. Learn more about the Brain Initiative and other UM research at umt.edu/research.

Office of the Vice President for Research and Creative Scholarshipphone: 406-243-6670 fax: 406-243-6330 web: umt.edu/research

The U.S. Army awarded UM researcher Dave Poulsen a $1 million grant to further develop a drug that limits damage caused by traumatic brain injuries. Poulsen’s research has shown that low doses of methamphetamine given to rodents within 12 hours after a traumatic brain injury or stroke significantly reduce brain damage and impairment. The grant will advance preclinical development studies of the drug in preparation for human trials.

UM researchers Sarj Patel and Tom Rau received a $300,000 grant from GE and the NFL as part of the $20 million Head Health Challenge. They are working to determine blood-based biomarkers that indicate how the brain reacts following a traumatic brain injury. They have identified biomarkers in human samples and animals through collaborations with St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula and Boston University.

The Big Sky Brain Project, a collaboration between UM’s Center for Structural and Functional Neuroscience and spectrUM Discovery Area, recently received a five-year, $1.3 million grant from the National Institutes of Health. The grant will fund a neuroscience learning center featuring four hands-on exhibits, a computer lab and a working lab aimed at increasing science literacy and interest among K-12 students.

2014 DIRECTORY 37


ROCKY MOUNTAIN LABSHamiltonwww.niaid.nih.gov/dir/infobsl4/[email protected]

SHODAIR CHILDREN’S [email protected]

Shodair’s nationally recognized medical genetics department provides genetic evaluation and counseling to citizens throughout Montana. The Medical Genetics Program offers comprehensive services to individuals with genetic conditions or concerns about their risk to transmit or develop a genetic disorder. The program is sponsored in part through funding from the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.

The Genetics Laboratory offers specialized testing as a part of the comprehensive medical genetics program based at Shodair Children’s Hospital. The Genetics Laboratory provides a wide variety of patient-focused esoteric studies with an emphasis on quality, turnaround time, and responsiveness to providers. In addition to our dedicated lab staff, Shodair’s medical geneticists and genetic counselors are available to help clinicians and families understand test results.

Shodair’s Genetics Laboratory provides services to patients of all ages throughout Montana and the western United States. Services include: Microarray Analysis, Maternal Serum Screening, Cytogenetics, Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH), Molecular Diagnostics, and Drug Metabolizing Enzyme (Pharmacogenetic) testing.

BENEFIS SLETTEN CANCER INSTITUTE Great Fallswww.benefis.org/[email protected]

Benefis Sletten Cancer Institute is Montana’s most comprehensive and state-of-the-art cancer facility. Benefis SCI has been uniquely designed to care for the body, mind, and spirit of cancer patients and their caregivers. Our programs and services span the continuum of care, including prevention, screening, education and information programs, patient care, research and hospice care.

Our team of expert medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, nurses and other cancer care professionals are dedicated to providing advanced cancer treatment, research and education to their fellow Montanans. Equally important, Benefis SCI provides a truly progressive approach to preventing and diagnosing cancer. Benefis Sletten Cancer Institute offers more than just up-to-date facilities and technology. Our programs and services are designed with you in mind, based on input from our cancer patients and survivors, physicians and staff. At Benefis SCI, we ensure that your experience with us is customized to meet your needs every step of the way.

ST. VINCENT [email protected]

St. Vincent Healthcare is one of Montana’s largest comprehensive healthcare providers, serving the healthcare needs of over 400,000 people in a four-state area. Renowned for a mission of compassionate care and service to the poor, the St. Vincent Healthcare team is continually recognized as a technological leader in the healthcare industry. St. Vincent Healthcare Foundation has received grant funding to expand the Crohn’s Disease Collaboration Research Center of the Greater Rocky Mountains through the Montana Department of Commerce Bio-Medical Research Grant Program. The center is a partnership between St. Vincent Healthcare and Montana State University Billings to provide care and treatment of patients with Crohn’s disease to create a research center for the study of the disease. The long-term research goals of the center are to identify the involvement of bacteria as agents of Crohn’s disease, develop diagnostic tests to detect specific subpopulations of patients and to develop new targeted treatments in these patients.

UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA

OFFICE OF VICE PRESIDENT FOR RESEARCH AND CREATIVE SCHOLARSHIPumt.edu/[email protected]

The Office of the Vice President for Research and Creative Scholarship supports the educational and research mission of the University through advocacy and advancement of basic and applied research, creative activities, and academic scholarship, and fosters an environment that encourages the pursuit of research, scholarly activities, and economic development.

OFFICE OF TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER www.umt.edu/research/techtransfer [email protected]

The Office of Technology Transfer serves as a resource for The University of Montana research community regarding intellectual property and commercialization opportunities. The OTT also manages the university’s intellectual property portfolio, creates business relationships with external organizations through marketing and licensing efforts, and plays an active role in the formation of start-up companies launched to commercialize University of Montana technology.

CENTER FOR STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL NEUROSCIENCE [email protected]@umontana.edu

The NIH Center of Biomedical Research Excellence (COBRE) for Structural and Functional Neuroscience at The University of Montana was established through the Institutional Development Award program of the National Center for Research Resources.

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2014 Directory

The research mission of the Center is to utilize approaches at the interface of molecular pharmacology, synthetic chemistry, physiology, and molecular biology to advance our understanding of the central nervous system, particularly as related to protein structure and function, signaling, transport, and pathogenesis.

COLLEGE OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCESwww.health.umt.edu/[email protected]

Situated on the beautiful University of Montana campus, the College of Health Professions and Biomedical Sciences is home to cutting-edge research and top-notch educators. Degree offerings include Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, Masters of Social Work, Masters and Certificate of Public Health, Doctor of Pharmacy, Doctor of Physical Therapy, Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Medicinal Chemistry and Toxicology.

DEPARTMENT OF BIOMEDICAL AND PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES www.umt.edu/schools/biomed [email protected]

The Department of Biomedical & Pharmaceutical Sciences (BMED) serves as the “basic science” unit of the Skaggs School of Pharmacy. With research strengths in Molecular Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Medicinal Chemistry, its faculty of about 40, oversees much of the P1- and P2-year curriculum for the professional Pharm.D. program,

as well as four graduate Ph.D. programs. A strong commitment to collaborative, multidisciplinary research has led to the development of two NIH Centers of Biomedical Research Excellence and an NIH/NINDS P30 Core Laboratory that have helped make BMED a leader in biomedical research on campus and across the state.

MONTANA BIOTECHNOLOGY CENTERwww.umt.edu/[email protected]

The mission of the Montana Biotechnology Center is to provide core services in support of basic and applied research at The University of Montana, and to facilitate interactions between investigators and private sector enterprises in the state.

Established in 1996 within the office of the Vice President for Research and Creative Scholarship at The University of Montana-Missoula, the Montana Biotechnology Center and its Director seek to assist in the expansion of biotechnology in Montana, predicated on research and technology excellence, a well-trained work-force, and entrepreneurial expertise.

MONTANA NEUROSCIENCE INSTITUTE [email protected]

The Montana Neuroscience Institute Foundation (MNIF) promotes the integration of neuroscience research and patient care. Through collaboration fostered by the Foundation experts in research and clinical medicine develop innovations in patient care to help those afflicted with diseases of the nervous system.

GLOBAL REACH, LOCAL SUPPORT. SINCE 1852.VWR Accelerating Biotechnology Solutions in Montana

VWR is a global leader in the distribution of laboratory products, supplies and services, offering the best product choices, including the Exclusive VWR Collection, from premier manufacturers to customers around the globe.

For more information, please contact Terri Kollman, VWR Account Manager [email protected] 406-544-2884

2014 DIRECTORY 39

Discovering new and better treatments, tests, vaccines and techniques in health care.

Find out more about Biomedical research at Montana State

Contact Rebecca Mahurin Technology Transfer Office

304 Montana Hall PO Box 172460 Bozeman, MT 59717-2460

406-994-7868

[email protected]

www.montana.edu/tto

Montana State University Breakthrough Biomedical Research

“Understanding biofilms is imperative so we can provide safe drinking water worldwide.”

Anne Camper | MSU Regents Professor Camper’s research interests are in biofilm growth and control in drinking and industrial water systems; the fate, transport and survival of pathogens in biofilm systems; and the physiology of biofilm bacteria.

“Understanding how pathogens evade the immune system will help us figure out how to eradicate them.”

Jovanka Voyich-Kane | MSU Professor Voyich-Kane works to improve understanding of how bacteria initiate infection so new treatments can be developed for emerging infectious diseases.

“Our biomedical work creates new vaccines designed to reduce global morbidity and mortality caused by serious infectious diseases.”

Robert Bargatze | Co-founder of LigoCyte Pharmaceuticals (now Takeda Vaccines) and MSU graduate

Driven by a desire to see his immunology research benefit society, Bargatze took his doctoral work from MSU to industry as a cofounder of LigoCyte Pharmaceuticals, one of Montana’s oldest and largest biotechnology companies employing many MSU graduates.


2014 Directory w w w. m o n t a n a b i o . o rg

Supporting Organizations ANTOINETTE M. TEASE, [email protected]

Antoinette M. Tease, P.L.L.C. is Montana’s first full-service intellectual property law firm. They help their clients protect and defend their intellectual assets.

BIG SKY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT [email protected]

Focused on sustaining and growing Yellowstone County’s vibrant economy and outstanding quality of life, Big Sky Economic Development provides leadership and resources for business creation, expansion, retention, new business recruitment and community development.

BN BUILDERS, INC.Florence – [email protected]

BN Builders Inc. is a local contractor specializing in the construction of Biotech and Pharmaceutical facilities of all sizes. These projects range from manufacturing facilities to, research and development, to institutional facilities. BNB has completed GlaxoSmithKline’s 12 building MPL expansion in Hamilton, Mt. and MSU’s Gaines Hall in Bozeman.

CTA ARCHITECTS [email protected]

Established in 1938 by one Architect and one Engineer, CTA has grown to provide a wide variety of services for a broad range of project types. Smart business practices, financial diversity and most of all, a strong commitment to employees and clients are an integral part of our culture - along with individual ownership of responsibility, reward for contribution and expectations for success.

DAVIDSON ARCHITECTUREBruce DavidsonGreat [email protected]

Founding MBA member Bruce Davidson and his partners at Davidson Architecture in Great Falls are the architects of the LigoCyte Pharmaceuticals, Inc. building in Bozeman. They also designed a small science center for the University of Montana’s Helena College of Technology and a new Environmental Chemistry Facility for the Montana Department of Health and Human Services.

DORSEY AND WHITNEY [email protected]

Dorsey & Whitney is a full-service law firm serving bioscience companies, start-up companies and investors in Montana and throughout the nation. Rapidly growing bioscience businesses require creative entrepreneurship supported by sound legal advice. Lawyers from Dorsey’s Life Sciences, Corporate and IP Groups create the legal foundation necessary to raise capital, protect intellectual property, contract with partners, and attract and retain employees. For more information, go to www.dorsey.com or contact Jack Manning in our Missoula office at [email protected]

MONTANA ANGEL NETWORK FRONTIER ANGEL FUND LLCBIG SKY ANGELSwww.frontierangels.com [email protected]

The Montana Angel Network provides education and support to angel funds, networks and individuals in Montana. Our purpose is to organize early stage equity capital for investment in new enterprises in Montana. Frontier Angel Fund, LLC is looking for Montana companies who need early stage growth capital.

GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTwww.mt.gov [email protected]

The Governor’s Office of Economic Development serves to advise the Governor on policy issues related to economic development; lead the state’s business recruitment, retention, expansion, and start-up efforts; and serves as the state’s primary economic development liaison between federal, state, and local agencies, Montana tribal governments, private nonprofit economic development organizations and the private sector.

LAURIE HASSELLRegional Liaison, Institute of Translational Health Sciences (ITHS)[email protected]

Laurie Hassell is the Regional Liaison for the Institute of Translational Health Sciences (ITHS), an NIH-funded organization working to ensure the people in Montana, Washington, Wyoming, Idaho and Alaska will benefit from health-related discoveries and innovations. ITHS fosters pioneering research partnerships, creates and sustains research resources, and expands the pipeline of academic and clinical researchers through pre- and post-doctoral educational and career development programs.

HEADWATERS FLOATING ISLAND INTERNATIONALBillingswww.floatingislandinternational.comtpmulholland@gmail.com

HFII is a licensed division of Floating Island International (FII) from Shepherd, Montana. HFI will manufacture, market, and sell Floating Island BioHavens which are Floating Treatment Wetlands.

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IMAGE LABS INTERNATIONALBozemanwww.imagelabs.com [email protected]

Image Labs provides imaging components and develop machine vision solutions for all types of lab applications.

MISSOULA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIPMissoulawww.missoulapartnership.combfreeer@missoulaworks.com

The Missoula Economic Partnership works collaboratively and strategically to facilitate increased prosperity through business development while enhancing the business environment and quality of life in our community

MONTANA AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS [email protected]

MABA Advocates for plant bioscience opportunities for Montana agricultural producers and affiliated Montana businesses.

MONTANA DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCEHelena http://[email protected]

The Montana Department of Commerce delivers information, technical assistance, and financial resources to Montana communities and businesses so they can develop and diversify our economy.

MONTANA UNIVERSITY SYSTEMOffice of Commissioner of Higher EducationHelenahttp://[email protected]

The Montana University System is comprised of fourteen campuses, enrolling more than 47,000 students, and is governed by the Montana Board of Regents. The Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education (OCHE) is the administrative unit of the Board of Regents.

MONTANA WORLD TRADE [email protected]

The Montana World Trade Center (MWTC) works to increase international trade through public-private partnerships, business networking, and student education. MWTC plays a dual role as consultant and advocate, assisting member businesses to establish and strengthen international commercial capabilities, while striving to develop untapped international trade opportunities. Developing a partnership with MWTC will help your business realize international sales goals, new market opportunities, streamline efficiencies and costs saving.

OPEN MRIBillingswww.open-mri.com [email protected]

Medical imaging facility - GE showplace site.

PAYNE FINANCIAL GROUP/HOINESS LABAR [email protected]

Payne Financial Group is a family of full service insurance agencies that extends thru the Rocky Mountain Northwest. Hoiness Labar Insurance, Montana International Insurance and Terry Payne & Company formed Payne Financial Group in 2001 to be the premier provider of unique insurance solutions, surety and employee benefits program. Today, Payne Financial Group operates in 9 communities and employs 225 insurance professionals. Our firm has a specialty focus within the technology industry and we have the ability to create risk transfer programs for the global economy. In addition, our employee benefits department will develop benefit programs for the smallest to the largest employer.

PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH AND MANUFACTURERS OF AMERICA [email protected]

Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) represents the country’s leading pharmaceutical research and biotechnology companies, which are devoted to inventing medicines that allow patients to live longer, healthier and more productive lives. PhRMA’s mission is to conduct effective advocacy for public policies that encourage discovery of important new medicines for patients by pharmaceutical/biotechnology research companies.

RAVALLI COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT [email protected]

The purpose of the Ravalli County Economic Development Authority (RCEDA) is to promote, stimulate, develop and enhance the general welfare, commerce, economic development and prosperity of Ravalli County, the State of Montana and its citizens. We do this by providing capital and creative debt structuring leveraging public and private funds, technical assistance, mentoring, and networking opportunities.

SHERIDAN ROSS PC Denver, [email protected]

Founded in 1954, Sheridan Ross PC is the oldest intellectual property law firm in the Rocky Mountain West. We believe that the extraordinary effort to innovate should be matched by the strength of protection for those innovations. In 2010, Sheridan Ross was

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2014 Directory

ranked second in the U.S. in securing the highest-quality patents in the healthcare sector by Intellectual Asset Management magazine and their patent ratings partner Ocean Tomo. Our biotechnology practice capabilities were also recognized by the National Institutes of Health in 2009 when we were one of only six law firms selected to secure protection of biotechnology inventions from inventors at NIH institutions. Our clients include corporations, universities and entrepreneurs with global interests in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, energy and environmental industries, and more.

SPUR STUDIO CREATIVE MARKETING GROUPBozeman, Helena, and [email protected]

Spurring results with the science of marketing + award-winning design. We learn the intricacies of your products, services, and competitive landscape so you can communicate exactly what you want to say, to the people you need to reach. We focus on providing a seamless client experience - so you can focus on what you do best while we do the rest.

[email protected]

TechRanch’s mission is to provide the best environment for the rapid and successful development of technology-bases companies. To act as an enabling force in economic development, helping to create high-quality, high-paying, clean jobs in Montana, thus reducing the brain drain and increasing Montana’s tax base. Also to promote sustainable, responsible and progressive business practices among the companies served.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATIONHelenawww.eda.doc.gov

WASHINGTON BIOTECHNOLOGY & BIOMEDICAL ASSOCIATIONSeattlewww.washbio.org

The Washington Biotechnology & Bioomedical Association (WBBA) is an independent, non-profit, 501 (c) 6 trade association serving the life sciences industry in the state of Washington and the Northwest. Their members include organizations engaged in or supportive of research, development and commercialization of life science technologies.

WENDT ADVERTISINGGreat [email protected]

Marketing strategy, public/media relations, graphic design, interactive promotions and web design, as well as advertising. Specialize in communications of medical services/healthcare, medical device and bioscience/technologies.

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BIOSCIENCE UNDER THE BIG SKY

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