The arrival of Dr. Turco at the Life Science Hub signals proactive measures towards building a robust ecosystem. Essential to this growth will be the development of an incubator lab space, which aims to address critical lab space needs for startups and innovators in the state. The incubator is set to open in December 2025 and promises to facilitate advancements in healthcare technologies.
Dr. Turco’s rich history includes leading roles across various sectors in the biomedical and life sciences fields. Notably, he served as the Chief Innovation Officer at the University of Pennsylvania, where he created the Center for Penn-Health Tech. This innovative center was established as a collaborative effort between the engineering and medical schools, aiming to foster the development of new medical technologies. His leadership experience extends to guiding research teams through company formations and navigating complex regulatory approval processes.
His recent endeavors saw him lead two cardiovascular startups, both of which were eventually acquired by prominent public medical device firms. Dr. Turco's experience, combined with his residency in Providence, aligns perfectly with the mission of the Life Science Hub, reinforcing local and national commitments to advancing life sciences.
Building on Past Successes
Following the interim leadership of Dr. Patrice Milos, who adeptly managed the organization while the search for a permanent president occurred, the board acknowledges her contributions. Steinberg remarked, “Patrice established grant programs and negotiated agreements for the incubator lab space in a very short time, setting the stage for future success.” The initiative laid important groundwork for Dr. Turco’s leadership.
Established in 2023 with a generous $45 million investment from the state, the Rhode Island Life Science Hub aims to catalyze the growth of the life sciences sector. In just a year, significant milestones have been achieved, including an inaugural summit that convened over 500 industry leaders, as well as the introduction of a Small Grant Fund.
The Hub has also allocated $20 million in special grant funding aimed at promoting innovation, workforce development, and the growth of early-stage businesses. It further invested $10 million in partnership with Brown University and the I-195 Commission for developing the state’s first life science incubator.
A Future Focused on Leadership
The community's confidence in Dr. Turco is well-placed, nurturing hope for Rhode Island's future in the life sciences. His focus on collaboration between academia, the private sector, and government is expected to be a catalyst for further innovation and economic prosperity. As Rhode Island sets its sights on a thriving future in life sciences, the arrival of Mark A. Turco as its new President and CEO paves the way for a brighter, healthier tomorrow. The Rhode Island Life Science Hub’s strategic initiatives aim to solidify the state’s position as a global leader in this vital field.
For more information and updates, visit
RILifeScience.com.