Business leaders, scientists and entrepreneurs will gather in Lexington Friday, November 12 for the Second Kentucky Conference on Natural Products Innovation.

The conference, sponsored by the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture’s Natural Products Alliance (NPA) and Kentucky Tobacco Research and Development Center (KTRDC) in collaboration with the Kentucky Life Sciences Organization (KLSO), will focus on identifying resources, building partnerships and establishing successful enterprises in the life sciences industry.

“Our conference last year was highly successful and brought together some of the best and brightest minds in the state’s natural products and biotechnology fields, so we’re very excited about this year’s conference,” said Maelor Davies, KTRDC director.

“UK President Dr. Lee Todd  will present the opening address, and we have three excellent keynote speakers whose presentations should not be missed by anyone interested in innovation, life science and business development,” said Gabriel Wilmoth, NPA coordinator.

Keynoters include Mary Jo Waits, Center for the Future of Arizona, who will speak about Life Science Cluster Development; Paul Kelly, Martek Biosciences, who will talk about trials and innovation in natural products manufacturing; and Roger Wyse, Burrill & Company, who will cover key lessons and current climate for early-stage biotechnology firms.

Other conference sessions include snapshot presentations on grants, sources of commercialization support, workforce development, and technical and manufacturing support.  There also will be presentations showcasing start-up companies and developments in plant-made pharmaceutical production.

Those interested in attending should register as soon as possible prior to the November 5 deadline.  The conference fee is $30, which covers a buffet lunch.  A registration form is available by contacting Judi Burgess at 859-257-5151, or by e-mail ajaburg3@uky.edu.