Cracking the Code: AI, Purdue, and Indiana's Winning Formula

Ep. 6: Introducing the BioHeartland

Today’s episode marks the launch of something bigger than a brand. It’s the beginning of a new regional identity — one designed to tell the story of how human, animal and plant biosciences converge right here in the heart of America. It’s called BioHeartland. Across Indiana and the greater central region, a powerful ecosystem is already taking shape — where breakthrough therapies are invented, advanced technologies are manufactured at scale and products move efficiently across the globe. From life sciences and agbiosciences to advanced manufacturing, logistics and research, this region is uniquely positioned to lead the future of bioscience innovation. In this episode, we’ll unpack how the BioHeartland initiative came together, why this moment matters and what it means for companies, communities, entrepreneurs and talent across the region. Joining us for the conversation are Melina Kennedy (CEOs of Indiana Corporate Partnership), who will serve as moderator, along with Vince Wong (President and CEO of BioCrossroads), Christy Wright (President and CEO of AgriNovus Indiana) and Scott Fadness (Mayor of Fishers, Indiana). Together, they’ll discuss the research, collaboration and momentum behind the BioHeartland launch — and why telling a unified biosciences story has never been more important. This is BioSignals. And this is the beginning of BioHeartland.

2025 in Review with Mike Bolinder

We’re doing things a little differently with this episode. Instead of an external guest, we’re bringing in someone internal—Mike Bolinder SVP, External Engagement & Chief Innovation Officer. Last month, BioCrossroads released our 2025 annual report. And in this episode, Mike and Vince take a step back to reflect on 2025. Together they unpack a year’s worth of milestones across innovation, manufacturing, workforce, communications, and capital. 2025 was a watermark year for Indiana’s life sciences ecosystem—for the first time ever, life sciences in Indiana surpassed $100B in economic contribution, at $102B to be exact. We also became known as the radiopharmaceutical capital of the world. And we vastly expanded our workforce infrastructure and supports. This episode is the perfect companion piece to our annual report, and I recommend everyone take a look at it for a comprehensive look at all of the state’s activities in life sciences.

Cracking the Code: AI, Purdue, and Indiana's Winning Formula

How do cells know what to do, and what happens when that process goes wrong? In this episode of BioSignals, Vince Wong talks with David Umulis, Purdue University Senior Vice Provost and Chief Academic Officer for Indianapolis, to explore the cutting edge of systems biology and biomedical engineering. From decoding how cells communicate and organize to leveraging AI and computational modeling to accelerate discovery, Umulis shares how his lab and the EMBRIO Institute is working to uncover the fundamental rules that govern living systems. The conversation also explores why Indiana’s uniquely collaborative life sciences ecosystem is helping move innovation from the lab to application. Finally, Umulis discusses Purdue’s expanding presence in Indianapolis and how it could shape the next generation of talent and research. Tune in for a deep dive into the science and strategy behind the future of human health.

Biopharma Innovation with Dr. Ruth Gimeno

In this episode of BioSignals, host Vince Wong sits down with Dr. Ruth Gimeno, Group Vice President of Diabetes, Obesity & Cardiometabolic Research and Early Clinical Development at Eli Lilly and Company. Dr. Gimeno shares her perspective as a physician-scientist and biotech leader working at the forefront of therapeutic innovation. The conversation explores how complex biological discoveries move from the lab into clinical development, and ultimately toward real-world impact for patients. From breakthroughs in obesity and cardiometabolic disease to the challenges of translating science into medicine, Dr. Gimeno discusses what it takes to turn early insight into life-changing therapies.

Indiana's One Health Economy with AgriNovus

In Episode 2 of BioSignals, Vince Wong of BioCrossroads [BioCrossroads.com] sits down with Christy Wright, President and CEO of AgriNovus Indiana [https://agrinovusindiana.com/], to explore the power of One Health, which is the connection between human, animal, and plant health. How are food, agriculture, and life sciences converging in Indiana? Why is innovation in animal health and agbioscience accelerating right now? And what makes Indiana uniquely positioned to lead? Christy shares insights on startup trends, emerging technologies, and how collaboration across sectors is driving real-world impact. This episode highlights why Indiana’s integrated ecosystem is a competitive advantage in the future of life sciences. For more information about BioCrossroads and what you hear in this episode, visit BioCrossroads.com [BioCrossroads.com].