BioNJ is the life sciences trade association for New Jersey dedicated to fostering innovation, supporting companies across the ecosystem, and advocating for policies that benefit patients and the industry.
Traditionally a commercialization front, what explains New Jersey's increasing prominence in early-stage research?
New Jersey's rise in early-stage research stems from the biotech industry's steady growth since its establishment in the State. Over the past decade, policies and incentives have significantly fostered this development. For example, the New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology has implemented programs specifically geared toward early-stage companies, with life sciences as a key focus. Additionally, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority offers unmatched incentives, both in value and scope, compared to other states. These initiatives have made New Jersey an increasingly fertile ground for early-stage research and innovation.
Additionally, academic institutions, such as Princeton and Rutgers, have been instrumental in fostering innovation by encouraging researchers to engage with the ecosystem and spin out their companies. Our world-class training programs keep our workforce ahead in this ever-evolving industry. Similarly, New Jersey’s growing research hubs — which bring together academia, medicine, research, investors and technology — provide an increasingly dynamic, collaborative environment where early-stage research can advance and thrive.
What are the key research-hubs contributing to New Jersey’s innovation?
While New Jersey's life sciences sector features multiple hubs, the State's compact geography ensures that decentralization is relatively minimal. The majority of industry activity is concentrated from Mercer County, including Princeton, to the northern part of the State. This accessibility offers significant advantages over larger states.
Meanwhile, the State, committed to advancing its life science sector as a cornerstone of economic development, is funding Strategic Innovation Centers – such as the HELIX project under development in New Brunswick – which unite industry and academia to tackle challenges with innovative solutions. These centers provide mentorship, networking, training, business support, and access to venture capital and advanced resources
In addition to the HELIX, New Jersey is home to several innovation hubs, including SciTech Scity in Jersey City, the Northeast Science and Technology Center (NEST) in Kenilworth, and ON3 in Nutley, which are being reconfigured to accommodate companies at all stages of development. These reimagined spaces foster collaboration between early-stage and established firms, further enriching the State's life sciences ecosystem. Such developments underscore New Jersey's commitment to being a leading hub for life sciences innovation.
What are the most significant life sciences achievements associated with the State over the past year?
A hallmark of New Jersey's success is its continued leadership in FDA drug approvals. In 2023, more than 50% of all new drug approvals came from companies with a footprint in the State, underscoring its leadership in advancing medical innovation. In addition to the traditional larger biopharma companies, FDA approvals for innovative therapies from mid-sized and small biopharma companies have seen a significant rise.
New Jersey continues to attract and retain industry leaders, with companies establishing and expanding their presence across the State. Notable developments include Genmab broadening its footprint in Plainsboro, BeOne Medicines (formerly BeiGene) unveiling its flagship U.S. facility in Hopewell, Cellares launching an advanced cell therapy manufacturing site in Bridgewater, and Amicus Therapeutics establishing its new global headquarters in Princeton.
Meanwhile, CoreWeave, a prominent AI company, recently secured over 125,000 square feet in Kenilworth, exemplifying the State's ability to attract cutting-edge firms. This site, previously part of a significant biopharma campus after its move to another New Jersey location has been transformed into a multi-purpose facility.
These developments highlight the dynamic and evolving nature of New Jersey's life sciences sector.
How is AI shaping the future of life sciences in New Jersey?
AI is becoming a transformative force across New Jersey's life sciences sector, enabling advancements from drug discovery to commercialization. The establishment of an AI hub, announced by Governor Phil Murphy in concert with Princeton University, positions the State as a leader in leveraging AI for scientific and industrial innovation.
Biopharma companies in the State are harnessing the transformative power of AI to accelerate discovery, development, and commercialization processes. Though still in its early stages, the swift integration of AI underscores its immense potential. New Jersey's forward-thinking approach and robust innovation ecosystem ensures that it will be a competitive player in the intersection of AI and life sciences.
You mentioned Cellares’ Smart Factory. Would you say New Jersey is becoming a hub for cell and gene therapy?
Absolutely. New Jersey has become a leader in this space since the beginning and is now a hub for cell and gene therapy R&D. A great deal of this work is taking place within New Jersey's ecosystem, supported by the State's robust infrastructure and industry talent. The activity spans from early-stage research to advanced development through manufacturing..
Many companies which are leading the way in cell and gene therapy call New Jersey home, such as Novartis, Bristol Myers Squibb, Celularity, BioCentriq, and Legend Biotech – to name just a few.
The growth of cell and gene therapy in New Jersey is driven by a collaborative environment that includes academic institutions, biopharma companies, and innovative start-ups. This ecosystem enables groundbreaking advancements and attracts talent and investment to the State, further enhancing its reputation as a hub for life sciences innovation.
What can you tell us about BioNJ’s recent partnership with BioQuébec and its broader international aspirations?
BioNJ’s partnership with BioQuébec reflects our long-standing commitment to international engagement, which dates back to the early 2000s. These collaborations aim to raise awareness of our region and create opportunities for mutual growth, such as partnerships, dual locations, and shared innovations. The agreement with BioQuébec has already initiated exchanges, including plans for participation in key events such as our international BioPartnering Conference.
By connecting New Jersey’s thriving ecosystem with other geographies, we strengthen the global life sciences landscape and further position New Jersey as a critical player on the international stage.
How is BioNJ addressing potential supply chain disruptions caused by the likely adoption of the Biosecure Act?
We are proactively working with State and federal policymakers, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization and state organizations across the country to mitigate potential disruptions from the Biosecure Act. Our efforts include educating members and policymakers, providing guidelines, and advocating for policies that address genuine risks while avoiding overreach or unintended consequences.
The primary concern is that poorly crafted policies could hinder innovation and limit patient access to critical therapies. We emphasize data-driven solutions that balance security with the industry's ability to innovate, ensuring that patients' needs remain the top priority. While it is early days, we believe policymakers are listening, and we remain hopeful for balanced outcomes.
Ultimately, the decisions made now will impact the future of the life sciences industry and patient care. We are cautiously optimistic that an open dialogue will lead to sensible policies that enable innovation and growth while addressing security concerns.
How is the industry preparing for potential policy shifts under the Trump administration?
We are actively working to ensure that the new administration understands the opportunities and challenges this industry faces. This involves emphasizing the value the sector delivers, from economic contributions to life-saving therapies, and advocating for policies that support innovation. The president-elect’s prior experience in office and familiarity with the industry's impact provides hope for a balanced approach.
We are optimistic that current policies enabling growth and innovation will continue and that others will be developed. The industry's goal is to maintain a productive relationship with the administration to advance both public health and economic prosperity.
What do you hope to share about New Jersey and BioNJ one year from now?
I am highly optimistic about the industry's future and anticipate continued growth, opportunity, and forward momentum in the life sciences sector in New Jersey and beyond. Specifically, I want to see policies that prioritize patients' needs while fostering innovation. I look forward to report that New Jersey remains a top state for life sciences, driving FDA approvals, industry advancements, and patient access.
BioNJ strives to keep New Jersey at the forefront of the industry, ensuring it remains an ideal location for biopharma companies to grow, collaborate, and succeed. Our goal is to sustain this trajectory and further strengthen New Jersey’s leadership in life sciences.
Our mission remains focused on helping our Members help patients…Because Patients Can’t Wait.
