From left: IowaBio Executive Director Joe Hrdlicka; SynderBio co-founder Dr. Sarah Vigmostad; and IowaBio Associate Director Melissa Moyer. Contributed photo
A cancer diagnostics company and a long-time entrepreneur and community leader both received top honors at this year’s Partnering for Growth Biotech Innovation Showcase.
SynderBio, based in Coralville, is a lab automation and cancer diagnostics company that enhances cellular analyses through the targeted capture of cells from biopsy tissue. SynderBio was awarded the top company award and a $5,000 check by the Iowa Biotechnology Association.
“Our expert panel felt SynderBio made the most compelling case for best company,” Executive Director Joe Hrdlicka said. “SynderBio work exemplifies a leadership position in bioscience.”
Hrdlicka and Cultivation Corridor Executive Director Billi Hunt also presented the Cultivation Corridor Iowa Biotech Leadership Award to Robert G. Riley, Jr., chairman of the board and founder of Feed Energy; CEO of the Riley Resource Group; and owner of Corn Oil One. The award recognizes an individual who demonstrates leadership, innovation, advocacy and commitment to advancing Iowa’s biotechnology industry in the past year.