Pharmaceutical science and manufacturing industry professionals from around the world gathered in Boca Raton, Florida, USA, to share expertise and gain insight to 'Navigate the Horizon of Industry Change' at ISPE's extremely successful 2008 Annual Meeting.
Attended by more than 1,800 attendees, the meeting is ISPE's premier event and one of the industry's foremost opportunities to bring pharmaceutical professionals together for interactive workshops, education sessions, and keynote presentations to discuss new ideas, explore trends, and envision the future.
Over 40 educational sessions in seven tracks presented by more than 160 speakers focused on the topics of regulatory, innovation, manufacturing operations, engineering design, investigational products, project management, and efficient and effective compliance. Education sessions for Annual Meeting are generated by proposals submitted by ISPE Members from around the world.
This year's Keynote Session inspired and energized attendees with presentations by Dr Patrick Yang, executive vice president, Product Operations, Genentech; Dr Hans Rosling, professor of International Health at the Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; and Dr Janet Woodcock, director, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US FDA. Each provided perspectives on the changing pharma industry and how to make a difference.
Dr Patrick Yang: Biotech development to date provides an exceptional case study in recent pharmaceutical development. Examining the history leads to an exciting vision for the future.
Dr Hans Rosling: Our usual way of describing our world may no longer be very useful for decision-making. The data suggest a new way to view our world today, and Dr. Rosling's highly engaging visual presentation of the data depicts this with startling clarity.
Dr Janet Woodcock: Globalization of manufacturing is a challenge for industry and regulators alike, although much progress has been made over the past two decades in harmonizing standards for regulatory submissions and GMP expectations. Recent events have demonstrated urgent need for continued progress, including all nations, members of industry, and professional groups.
ISPE, the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering, is the Society of choice for 25,000 pharmaceutical science and manufacturing professionals in 90 countries. ISPE aims to be the catalyst for 'Engineering Pharmaceutical Innovation' by providing Members with opportunities to develop technical knowledge, exchange practical experience, and collaborate with global regulatory agencies and industry leaders.