BioPark executives from around the world launched new partnerships and collaborations at the Association of University Research Parks (AURP) BioParks 2013 in Chicago.

The half-day event attracted BioPark executives from Brazil, Germany, Republic of Korea, Spain, Australia, Canada, the United States and others.

“Building strong partnerships helps us create successful communities of innovation,” said AURP President and Executive Director of the University Technology Park at Illinois Institute of Technology David Baker. “Our colleagues from around the world met to share best practices, learn from the experts and explore innovative ways to partner across borders.”

BioParks was held at the University Technology Park at the Illinois Institute of Technology in advance of the BIO International Convention, the largest global event for the biotechnology industry.

Dr. Diego Miralles, Head of Johnson & Johnson California Regional Innovation Center led a session on innovation models for research parks and Michael Rosen, Senior Vice President, New Business Development of Forest City Science+Technology Group led a discussion on partnering across borders.

“Our members and guests left BioParks with new contacts and global partners,” said AURP Chief Executive Officer Eileen Walker. “Strong partnerships are invaluable for the success of our parks. We look forward to continuing our work connecting the world’s communities of innovation at our the 2013 International Conference this fall.”

The AURP 2013 International Conference, hosted by the University City Science Center, will be held September 24-27, 2013 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. For more information on the conference and other AURP partnering opportunities, visit http://www.aurp.net.