Upside Biotechnologies appoints leading US life sciences executive to board

This is a supplied media release.

Regenerative medicine start-up, Upside Biotechnologies, has appointed Boston-based Dr Daniel R. Marshak PhD to its board.

New Zealand-based Upside is developing an advanced, world-class skin replacement treatment for patients suffering major burns.

Dr Marshak is an experienced senior executive in the life sciences, diagnostics, and biopharmaceutical industries, leading high-technology, global businesses and R&D functions for more than twenty years.

Currently, Dr Marshak is a consultant to several biotechnology and life sciences companies, as well as financial firms, including Ferghana Partners Group and 5AM Ventures.

He previously served as senior vice-president and chief scientific officer for PerkinElmer Inc. from 2006-2014. Prior to joining PerkinElmer, Dr Marshak was vice-president and chief technology officer, biotechnology, for Cambrex Corporation. In that role, he helped build and manage the bioscience business unit through significant organic growth, including the first contract manufacturing of cell therapy products and other biologics.

Upside’s chief executive officer Dr Robert Feldman says he is absolutely delighted Dr Marshak has joined the Upside Board.

“He brings exceptional sector experience, broad networks, relevant scientific knowledge, enthusiasm and dedication. In my dealings, I’ve found that many people in the field know Dan and every individual, without exception, is complimentary about Dan. Upside Biotechnologies is a stronger company thanks to Dan’s involvement,” he says.

Dr Marshak says he has been interested in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering for more than 25 years. Rapid, autologous skin regeneration for therapeutic use in wound repair has been a goal in this field for many years.

“The scientists at Upside Biotechnologies have combined optimized cell expansion, innovative matrix materials, and a unique device to generate a skin product that can revolutionize the clinical treatment of critical burns,” comments Dr Marshak.

“Upside truly epitomizes the intersection of science, engineering, and medicine to improve human health globally. I am delighted to join the team at Upside as an independent director of the board.”

In May 2017, Upside announced it had signed a CRADA (Cooperative Research and Development Agreement) with the US Army Medical Research and Materiel Command based in Fort Detrick, Maryland.

The CRADA initiates a collaboration between the two organisations on both the scientific and regulatory aspects of Upside’s engineered skin product development.