Top 5 News Stories 6/15-6/22

1. Life sciences jobs growing in Mass, Patrick says WWLP – 6/18/12

Monday was the first day of an international conference that will attract thousands of scientists from across the globe to Massachusetts. Link

2. As biotech giants convene, Massachusetts stands out Boston.com – 6/18/12

Today, biotech companies from around the world will descend on Boston to show off their wares. The Bio International Convention is a chance for Massachusetts to tout its decisive edge in this lucrative industry. Link

3. Vertex commits $1.5M to Boston STEM programs Mass High Tech – 6/18/12

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Nasdaq: VRTX) has committed about $1.5 million over the next three years to a range of programs in collaboration with the Boston Public Schools to enhance science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. Link

4. Drugmakers, Mass. form consortium Boston.com – 6/20/12

Massachusetts and seven pharmaceutical companies are expected to unveil an ambitious neuroscience consortium Wednesday aimed at improving the understanding and treatment of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. Link

5. Bio coalition formed to spur workforce development Mass High Tech – 6/20/12

The Massachusetts Biotech Education Foundation, a non-profit that supports biotech and science education in the Bay State and the education arm of life sciences industry organization MassBio, has joined 40 other biotech-focused organizations to form a coalition to spur workforce development, education and entrepreneurship in the United States. Link