This interview with Dr. Mary O'Reilly, the current overseer of translational research programs at the Flinn Foundation, aimed at highlighting her expertise in relation to the MDM2 consortium. Read on to learn more about her background, the goals of the Flinn Foundation in converting research to healthcare solutions, and insights on the evolving biomedical research ecosystem, including increased funding and a focus on translation.
Q: Can you share your journey in the field of biomedical research, and what led you to oversee translational research programs at the Flinn Foundation?
A: My background includes a chemistry undergraduate degree and a Ph.D. in material science with a masters in business. Early in my career I worked as a scientist at a microelectronics research center in Ireland before transitioning to industry and having the opportunity to work in various roles across the globe. Here I learned the critical importance of knowing your market, timing and cost to ensure successful new product development and commercialization.
When I moved to Arizona, I continued in technology development, often partnering with universities to advance new technologies and explore how to scale and commercialize them. In my current role at Flinn, I’m focused on translating clinically relevant research into new medical diagnostic tools, devices and therapeutics.
Q: What are the main goals of the Flinn Foundation’s translational research programs, and how do they support the advancement of biomedical research in Arizona?
A: The goal is to ensure that the great bioscience and engineering research and knowledge generated in our institutions does not stay in labs but instead results in the development of new innovative products. We're focused on innovations in healthcare, such as diagnostics, new medical devices and health care delivery systems that can improve patient care and quality of life. The Foundation’s founder, a cardiologist, established Flinn with a mission rooted in advancing the biosciences for the benefit of Arizonans.
Q: What lessons have you learned from your experience in the biomedical-research sector that you think are crucial for other leaders in adjacent fields to understand?
A: It’s really difficult – you have to stay focused on the end goal and execute on it. If we’re aiming to build an ecosystem for commercializing products, we need the right infrastructure and mindset to support it. None of this happens by chance. It requires thoughtful, long-term planning, investment and dedicated execution. There’s also a lot of cross-pollination between fields, where advancements in one area can influence others. In Arizona the bioscience industry is benefitting from the growing semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, software development and cybersecurity industries. For example, a smart heart monitor today is a small plastic encapsulated circuit board with sensors, that is programmed to read, analyze and report on a patient’s heart health status on a continuous basis. Providing medical grade information to a physician who, when alerted, will assist their patient and minimize the likelihood of a heart attack. Our ability to develop such complex products here in the state is because we have a growing number of highly skilled people working across multiple industries.
Q: In what ways do you think the biomedical research ecosystem has changed in recent years, and what do you anticipate for the future?
A: Over the past several years, Arizona has seen a significant increase in funding aimed at building an infrastructure to support translational research. Translation – historically not a primary focus for universities – is becoming a more prominent aspect of their mission. While it’s still in the early stages, we’re seeing more people and institutions engaged in discussions about how to demonstrate the value of all the research being conducted.
Q: Can you discuss some of the key projects or initiatives currently underway in the Flinn Foundation’s translational research programs that have potential applications in medical device manufacturing?
A: Flinn runs an annual Translational Seed Grants program designed specifically to support researchers within the university and healthcare systems focused on precision health and emerging healthcare technologies aimed at delivering more efficient and higher quality care. Each year, the Foundation invests up to $1,000,000 in ten projects selected through a competitive process.
We also have an entrepreneurship program that traditionally funded up to six small companies annually at $30,000 each, along with other resources. Based on community feedback that $30,000 isn’t enough to make a meaningful impact, we’re adjusting the program. Starting this fall, we’ll increase funding for a smaller number of companies, allowing us to offer more robust financial support. For those not selected for direct funding, we’ll continue to provide value through network-building and tailored support
Q: How do you envision MDM2 impacting Greater Phoenix economic and workforce?
A: This project is important, not just for its specific outcomes, but also for the collaborative process it represents. We all recognize the need for stronger manufacturing capacity, and none of this can be accomplished by a single group working in isolation. It’s a complex process that requires a diverse set of people from multiple disciplines and organizations coming together around a shared goal. This initiative is a prime example of how bringing the right people to the table, combined with strategic funding, can drive meaningful progress.