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March 19, 2025 | Tom Ballard

New cohort named for Life Science Venture Program

Five start-ups named. They are supported by four Entrepreneurs-in-Residence.

Life Science Tennessee Foundation, formerly known as the BioTN Foundation, has announced the newest cohort of innovative life science start-ups accepted into the Life Science Venture Program (LSVP). These emerging companies, selected for their groundbreaking technologies and potential to advance healthcare and biotechnology, will gain access to expert mentorship, targeted educational resources, and investor networking opportunities to accelerate their commercialization journey.

The LSVP provides a structured pathway for Tennessee-based life science start-ups to refine their value propositions, navigate regulatory pathways, and develop go-to-market strategies. Participating companies benefit from hands-on guidance from a distinguished network of Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIRs) – industry veterans who provide strategic insights and connections essential for success.

The incoming companies are:

  1. VoluMetrix that uses venous waveform analysis to develop non-invasive
    devices that provide real-time volume status and physiological parameters. The start-up’s technology is designed to deliver data-driven insights to improve patient outcomes.
  2. Empath Biosciences uses modern molecular biology and computing
    techniques to generate novel compounds from microbes, and cutting-edge
    bioengineering to refine these compounds for human medicine.
  3. Pedia-Dose simplifies children’s medication administration at home
    through an innovative app which assists parents and caregivers with up-to-date dosing and monitoring guidance for children’s medication.
  4. Auros Pharma is a start-up pharmaceutical company committed to developing life-saving and life-changing medications, ensuring they are safe, accessible,
    and affordable for patients worldwide.
  5. Infusense is developing a precise, rapid, and accessible biosensor platform
    for real-time quantification of lipophilic drugs.

As these companies embark on their commercialization journey, they will be supported by a dedicated team of EIRs. These seasoned professionals bring a wealth of experience in life sciences, commercialization, and investment strategy, offering invaluable mentorship and industry connections. The current EIRs are:

  1. Jim Monsor, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Relay Life Science;
  2. Shawn Glinter, Founder and CEO, Pendant Biosciences;
  3. Jim Stefansic, Senior Director of Corporate Development, Cumberland Emerging Technologies; and
  4. Woody Bibb, Founder, Bibb Ventures

“The Life Science Venture Program is designed to help early stage companies bridge the gap from development to commercialization, and better prepare them for capital investments,” said Dr. Karrie Dudek, Director of the Life Science Venture Program. “With the support of our expert mentors and robust programming, these start-ups are well-positioned to make a significant impact in the life sciences industry.”

The LSVP operates on a rolling admissions basis, ensuring start-ups receive tailored support when they need it most. In addition to mentorship and education, participants will have the opportunity to showcase their progress at various regional industry events, including the highly anticipated LSTCON conference, which will take place in November of this year.



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