Washington, D.C. (May 13, 2016) – Will Smith, the critically acclaimed star of the film “Concussion”, will headline the Biotechnology Innovation Organization’s (BIO) International Convention in San Francisco (June 6-9) with a keynote address and moderated discussion on Tuesday, June 7. In “Concussion”, Smith played Dr. Bennet Omalu, best known for his discovery of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a disorder caused by repeatedly hard hits to the head. The discovery has led to a nationwide discussion of the potential risks for both amateur and professional football players. Smith’s performance was nominated for several awards including a golden globe for Best Actor.
Omalu will also be in attendance with Smith for an interview with Jim Greenwood, BIO’s President and Chief Executive Officer. The conversation will explore what led Smith to take on the role of the forensic pathologist and Omalu’s research on CTE.
“It is an exciting opportunity to have Will Smith and Dr. Omalu at BIO’s 2016 International Convention,” said Greenwood. “Smith is universally known and respected, having excelled in so many areas of entertainment from acting to music to writing. I am looking forward to having a spirited and lively discussion with Mr. Smith and Dr. Omalu about their work.”
Smith has enjoyed a diverse career of music, television and film that has touched fans all over the globe and has garnered critical acclaim including five Golden Globe and two Academy award nominations, as well as four Grammy wins.
Tuesday’s Keynote session from 9-10:30AM (PT) is sponsored by Johnson & Johnson Innovation and is open to attendees with Convention Access or higher.
Advance media registration is now available for qualified reporters working full time for print, broadcast and web publications with valid press credentials. To register, please visit here.
About BIO
BIO is the premier biotechnology advocacy organization representing biotech companies, industry leaders, and state biotech associations in the United States and more than 35 countries around the globe. BIO members range from biotech start-ups to some of the world’s largest biopharmaceutical companies – all united by the same goal: to develop medical and scientific breakthroughs that prevent and fight disease, restore health, and improve patients’ lives. BIO also organizes the BIO International Convention and a series of annual conferences that drive partnerships, investment, and progress within the sector. Learn more at bio.org.
Upcoming BIO Events
BIO International Convention
June 6-9, 2016
San Francisco, CA
BIO Animal Biotech Summit
September 21-23, 2016
Bethesda, MD
BIO Investor Forum
October 18-19, 2016
San Francisco, CA
BIO Latin America Conference
October 26-28, 2016
Grand Hyatt São Paulo, Brazil