The Massachusetts Biotechnology Council (MassBio) is honoring Chancellor Michael F. Collins with its 2015 MassBio Leading Impact Award.
The award is granted annually by MassBio’s Economic Development Advisory Group to recognize significant contributions of individuals or organizations in the arena of local, regional and state economic development that have improved the competitiveness of Massachusetts as a destination for the life sciences industry. This year’s award recognizes Chancellor Collins' contributions in his roles as senior vice president for the life sciences for the entire UMass system as well as chancellor of the medical school.
“Chancellor Collins has worked across the university to forge new and innovative partnerships with the life sciences industry,” said Robert K. Coughlin, MassBio president and CEO. “Under his charge, UMass has built one of the largest and most impactful research and development portfolios in Massachusetts, and the university is now positioned to serve as a premier academic partner for industry.”
Since 2008, when he was charged by the university’s Life Sciences Task Force to establish UMass as the premier public partner for the commonwealth’s thriving life sciences sector, Collins has been a key leader in supporting $1.2 billion in life sciences infrastructure investments across the state.
Between 2007 and 2013, the number of UMass students graduating with life sciences degrees has grown by 70 percent; licensing revenues generated by UMass rank it second in Massachusetts and 15th in the nation; 22 intercampus research projects have been funded; and numerous new partnerships with external stakeholders are serving as drivers of innovation across the commonwealth.
“The university’s support of the life sciences through talent development and strategic investments is a prime example of a highly motivated institution . . . committed to helping the state of Massachusetts remain a leader in the field,” wrote MassBio in its “Impact 2020” report.
Collins is the fourth recipient of the Leading Impact Award, which will be presented at MassBio’s Annual Meeting on Thursday, March 26, in Cambridge.
Related links on UMassMedNow:
Chancellor Collins: Basic science research key to sustaining Massachusetts biotech industry
Chancellor Collins in the Telegram: Fiscal cliff threatens research
