#United States #New Haven #Kat Kayser-Bricker #Halda Therapeutics #BioCT

Celebrating Kat Kayser-Bricker's Achievement in Life Sciences

Dr. Kat Kayser-Bricker, renowned Chief Scientific Officer at Halda Therapeutics, has been awarded the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year Award. This accolade, granted by BioCT and Shipman & Goodwin LLP, recognizes her visionary contributions to the life sciences sector in Connecticut. The award ceremony took place on December 5, 2024, during the BioCT annual holiday party, where over 300 life sciences executives gathered to celebrate innovators in the field.

Halda Therapeutics, under the guidance of Dr. Kayser-Bricker, focuses on developing precision cancer therapies. Her leadership and dedication have positioned Halda as a vital player in the oncology research landscape, paving the way for more effective treatments for patients. Reflecting on her award, Dr. Kayser-Bricker expressed her honor in joining a distinguished group of previous recipients, acknowledging the hard work and commitment of those who have contributed significantly to the life sciences sector in Connecticut.

"This is an exciting time for Halda as we prepare to move our first therapy into the clinic in early 2025, a milestone stemming from years of groundbreaking research. We are eager to address unmet needs in oncology with our innovative RIPTAC™ therapeutics. I look forward to supporting other start-ups and expanding our vibrant ecosystem," she stated.

The award was not just a personal achievement but a recognition of the thriving life sciences community in Connecticut. Dormer Stephen, a Partner at Shipman and a member of BioCT's board, praised Dr. Kayser-Bricker's transformative impact on the state's life sciences ecosystem, highlighting her efforts in advancing entrepreneurship and innovation.

In addition to her role at Halda, Kayser-Bricker is deeply involved in several initiatives aimed at supporting underrepresented groups in life sciences. Her contributions extend beyond her company; she actively engages with various organizations, including her service on the steering committee for the Executive Women in Bio Connecticut chapter and her role as co-chair of the BioLaunch Advisory Committee for the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce.

Dr. Kayser-Bricker's recent achievements have spurred a wave of positive developments in the life sciences sector in Connecticut. Following Halda's successful fundraising of $126 million in Series B financing in the summer of 2024, notable advancements have unfolded for other start-ups in the area. EvolveImmune Therapeutics, which develops cutting-edge precision cancer medicines, secured an additional $65 million in funding shortly after, showcasing the robust nature of the community.

Moreover, the acquisition of Modifi Bio by Merck is another highlight attributed to the momentum generated by Halda's funding success, further illustrating the potential of Connecticut's life sciences landscape. Dr. Kayser-Bricker's previous experience as a board member at Modifi Bio underscores her strategic involvement in fostering innovation and growth within the sector.

The BioCT annual holiday party also featured the Yale Ventures Life Sciences Pitchfest, where Yale faculty innovators showcased their breakthrough research in various domains, including therapeutics and medical devices. This collaborative environment emphasizes the commitment to advancing healthcare solutions and innovations.

As Connecticut establishes itself as a prime hub for life sciences, initiatives like those led by Dr. Kayser-Bricker at Halda Therapeutics exemplify the spirit of innovation that continues to thrive. Shipman & Goodwin LLP remains a steadfast supporter of BioCT, which works diligently to cultivate such a rich, innovative ecosystem. With both entities steadfast in their mission, the future looks promising for life sciences in Connecticut.

In conclusion, the recognition of Dr. Kat Kayser-Bricker as the Entrepreneur of the Year shines a light on the collective efforts of individuals dedicated to advancing health care solutions through innovative research and entrepreneurship. Her journey not only inspires many but also highlights the endless possibilities of collaboration, innovation, and support within the life sciences community in Connecticut.