Dr Janet Preuss

CEO, QRC Solutions

Janet’s background includes a PhD in Pharmacology, an MBA (Advanced) and a BSc (double majoring in Pharmacology and Biochemistry). She is also a graduate and current member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Janet’s career has included work in academia, parliament, private and public companies, and consulting, as well as executive search and recruitment. In addition to her commitment to Biotech Recruitment Consultants and QRC Solutions, Janet continues to work in a consulting capacity with start-up biotech companies to assist them in the commercialisation of their technologies, as well as sitting on the Boards of some selected organisations. Her broad experience in areas of research, operations and consulting mean that Janet brings a wealth of experience and knowledge with her. Janet is passionate about the development and success of the biotechnology industry, and this is reflected in her focus on this sector.

Dr Penelope Farbey

Principal, Wrays

Penelope is a registered patent attorney and trade mark attorney. She has extensive experience in drafting and prosecuting local and overseas originating patent applications, acting in patent opposition proceedings and providing general infringement, validity and due diligence opinions. Following completion of a PhD in molecular microbiology, and several post-doctoral research positions at various universities, Penelope joined the team at Wrays in 2001 and now works primarily in the areas of biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and agri-biotech. Penelope enjoys the face-to-face interaction with clients and long term collaboration on developing IP portfolios as an integral part of clients’ business. She very much enjoys the exposure to new scientific developments and working directly with scientists at the forefront of their fields.

Dr Helga Mikkelsen

Investment Manager,

Brandon Capital

Helga Mikkelsen is WA-based Investment Manager at Brandon Capital, Australia’s leading life science venture capital firm, which also runs the BioCatalyst Collaboration. Following degrees in Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Helga completed her PhD in microbiology at the University of Cambridge and postdoctoral research at Imperial College London. She has since focused on the commercialisation of biomedical discoveries, working with companies developing devices and drug treatments in Australia and internationally. Among her current roles are Director of Respirion Pharmaceuticals, Board Observer at OncoRes Medical and Azura Ophthalmics, Director of the Cancer Research Trust and Independent Governor of the Forrest Research Foundation.

Foundation Speakers & Mentors

Richard Baddeley

Principal, Wrays

Richard has over 35 years’ experience advising clients on all aspects of IP. His focus is on providing creative approaches to IP strategy aligned with business strategy.

He has an established track record acting for a range of clients from start-ups to large multinationals which has been built on his reputation as a trusted and experienced business adviser.

Richard's background in chemical engineering and general practice provides a platform to understanding technology and advising clients across a wide range of fields, with current projects in the fields of critical mineral extraction, processing and utilisation, medical technology, energy technology and automotive technology.

James Chen

Medical Doctor, Gastroenterology

James is a dedicated gastroenterology doctor with broad clinical experience and an interest in rural and remote medicine, and is the inaugural Sustainability and Innovation Fellow for the Fiona Stanley Hospital Department of Gastroenterology.

He has completed a Master of Health Management and Leadership and has experience in education through his role as a Medical Education Registrar and formal positions with universities.

James took part in the 2017 Perth Biodesign course and returns each year to contribute as a guest speaker and clinical mentor.