This interactive, two-hour workshop—hosted by Petro Terblanche—was designed to help early career researchers successfully engage with bio-entrepreneurs and build meaningful partnerships in the biotechnology and life sciences sectors.
During the session, Petro provided an overview of the bio-entrepreneur environment, explored its key players and emerging trends, shared strategies for identifying potential industry partners and making that all-important first contact, demonstrated how to craft a compelling pitch that highlighted both personal and research value, and offered guidance on maintaining long-term partnerships for continued innovation and success. Through interactive discussions and expert insights, participants gained the confidence and tools needed to engage effectively with industry and advance their research careers.
About the Speaker: Prof Petro Terblanche is a VALIDATE Investigator and the Chief Executive Officer of Afrigen Biologics (PTY) Ltd, where she applies her extensive background in technology-intensive organisations and the translation of research into tangible innovations. With extensive experience managing research portfolios in clinical oncology—both in single and combination therapy—she has also contributed significantly to the development of original research guiding policy and decision support in environmental health. Petro’s expertise spans the negotiation of license agreements in sectors like food, fine chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, as well as the establishment of both for-profit and non-profit start-up ventures. Since 1999, she has played a key role in implementing South Africa’s Biotechnology strategy, reflecting her commitment to advancing vaccine development—including mRNA technologies—and fostering collaborative industry partnerships. Her current involvement as a VALIDATE Network Affiliate underscores her leadership in driving innovation and promoting global health initiatives.
