Tokyo
Who it’s For
Supporting academic researchers in bringing scientific discoveries closer to commercialization.
BioLabs Academy is designed for academic researchers in Japan who are developing innovative technologies in drug discovery or regenerative medicine and have filed, or intend to file, a patent for their research.
The program welcomes innovations across a range of therapeutic areas and technologies, including small molecules, antibodies, biologics, peptides, drug-discovery platforms, cell therapy, gene therapy, and tissue engineering.
Is This Program Right for You?
Advancing scientific discoveries requires more than groundbreaking research. It also requires the right expertise, industry connections, and development strategy.
BioLabs Academy is designed for researchers who:
Promising Scientific Discoveries
You have innovative research but do not necessarily want to lead or manage a company yourself.
Interested in Commercialization
You want to explore commercialization opportunities but have not yet established a management team.
Exploring Pharma Partnerships
You have explored pharmaceutical partnerships but need guidance to advance discussions toward collaboration.
Application & Eligibility
Eligibility
Designed for academic researchers in Japan developing drug-discovery or regenerative medicine technologies, with a filed or planned patent.
Approximately 10 Researchers
Each cohort is expected to accommodate approximately 10 researchers, subject to program capacity.
No Business Plan Required
An established business plan or market assessment is not required. Developing these strategies is part of the program.
Overview
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Open Cohort | 8 Sessions + Demo Day
Phase I equips researchers with the foundational knowledge and practical tools to advance scientific discoveries toward therapeutic development and commercialization.
Each session combines expert-led instruction, hands-on application, and individualized mentoring.
Key Topics Covered
Translational Research & Unmet Medical Needs
Drug Development Case Studies
Drug Discovery & Target Product Profile (TPP) Design
Intellectual Property Strategy
GMP & CMC Fundamentals
Regulatory Strategy (Japan, US & EU)
Nonclinical Development (ADMET, PK/PD & Biomarkers)
Clinical Trial Design & Operations
Demo Day & Outcomes
Participants present their research to pharmaceutical professionals and investors, with selected projects advancing to Phase II. By the end of Phase I, participants will have developed a Target Product Profile and a clearer development strategy.
Observer participation is available for prospective CEOs and business professionals during lecture sessions.
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Selected Cohort | Advanced Development & Individualized Mentoring
Phase II supports selected researchers in advancing their therapeutic innovations toward industry partnerships and further development.
Through tailored mentoring and strategic guidance, participants refine their development plans, address critical challenges, and strengthen the commercial potential of their research.
Key Areas of Focus
Target Product Profile (TPP) Refinement
Preclinical & Clinical Development Strategy
Regulatory & Manufacturing Planning
Intellectual Property & Commercialization Strategy
Development Milestones & Resource Planning
Pharmaceutical Partnership Readiness
Investor & Industry Engagement
Pitch Development & Presentation Preparation
Program Outcomes
Participants work toward a more comprehensive therapeutic development strategy and greater readiness to engage with pharmaceutical partners, investors, and other potential collaborators.
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The Osaka program is designed to help researchers transform promising drug-discovery assets into investment- and partnership-ready opportunities through three key milestones.
Step 1 · Define Your Product and Unmet Medical Need
Develop a Target Product Profile (TPP) outlining the intended therapeutic application and unmet medical need.Step 2 · Prepare for IND-Enabling Development
Create a development plan and build a network of industry experts and potential collaborators.Step 3 · Position for Investment and Licensing
Develop a licensing strategy and team-building plan to prepare for potential pharmaceutical partnerships and investment opportunities. -
Hosted at BioLabs Tokyo, a shared laboratory facility within BioLabs’ global network of life sciences innovation hubs.
BIOLABS ACADEMY TOKYO · INAUGURAL COHORT
FROM ACADEMIC DISCOVERY TO THERAPEUTIC DEVELOPMENT
A two-phase accelerator hosted at BioLabs Tokyo, designed to help academic researchers transform promising scientific discoveries into viable therapeutic opportunities through expert-led education, hands-on development, and individualized mentoring. The program connects researchers with industry professionals to strengthen commercialization strategies and prepare for potential pharmaceutical partnerships.
december 2026
TOKYO APPLICATIONS CLOSE
March 2027
TOKYO PROGRAM BEGINS
PROGRAM SCHEDULE
How it Works
Two cohorts run in sequence, each with about 10 scientists. Phase I is open to all eligible applicants; Phase II continues with assets selected at each Demo Day.
JOIN THE BIOLABS ACADEMY COMMUNITY
BioLabs Academy Tokyo brings together academic researchers, aspiring entrepreneurs, and industry professionals to advance drug discovery and therapeutic innovation.
Whether you're interested in upcoming program opportunities, potential industry collaborations, or connecting with Japan's growing life sciences ecosystem, we invite you to become part of the BioLabs Academy community.
Inaugural Tokyo Cohort | March 2027 | BioLabs Tokyo
CONNECT WITH JAPAN'S NEXT GENERATION OF BIOTECH INNOVATORS
Observer Opportunities | BioLabs Academy Tokyo
Are you an experienced executive, aspiring biotech CEO, or business professional interested in advancing scientific discoveries toward commercialization?
BioLabs Academy Tokyo welcomes industry professionals to participate as observers in educational sessions, engage with academic researchers, and explore potential opportunities for collaboration within Japan's life sciences ecosystem.
Observers may join lecture sessions at various points throughout the program, subject to availability. Advance registration is required, and participation is offered on a cost-recovery basis.
Have Questions?
Program partners
Founding sponsor
