This conference will explore how Europe can secure global leadership in the life sciences sector, putting the value of health at the heart of policymaking.  

With the Biotech Act and other pivotal EU policy files due to advance during the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU, the conference offers a timely platform to debate the future direction of Europe’s life sciences ecosystem. Speakers will discuss the complementary goals of industry competitiveness and therapeutic excellence, debating the policies, partnerships, and ecosystem transformation required to develop groundbreaking treatments and deliver better outcomes for patients across the EU.

This conference is sponsored by Johnson & Johnson and is recognised as an Associated Event of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026.

The event will begin with opening remarks by James Lawless TD, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and will be followed by two panel discussions: 

1. Sharpening Europe’s Competitive Edge

This panel will explore the policies and conditions needed to strengthen Europe’s position as a global leader in life sciences research, development and advanced manufacturing. In particular, the discussion will focus on how initiatives such as the forthcoming EU Biotech Act and related policy developments can support innovation, attract investment, build skills and enhance Europe’s competitiveness.

Panellists will include:

• Thomas Van Cangh, Deputy Head of Unit & Head of Biotech Task Force, DG SANTE, European Commission
• Rachel Shelley, Global Head of Life Sciences & Food, IDA
• EMEA Industry Representative

2. Driving Innovation for Patients

This panel will examine how sustained commitment to research, innovation and health system modernisation can accelerate the development and deployment of next-generation therapies across Europe. It will also look at how public policy, private investment and multi-stakeholder collaboration can improve patient outcomes while supporting a thriving life sciences ecosystem.

Panellists will include:

• Rainer Becker, Director of Medical Products & Innovation, DG SANTE, European Commission
• Vytenis Andriukaitis MEP, Biotech Act Rapporteur for SANT Committee, European Parliament, and former European Commissioner for Health & Food Safety   
• Claire Skentelbery, Director General, EuropaBio
• Avril Daly, President of EURORDIS - Rare Diseases Europe
• Muiris O’Connor, Assistant Secretary at Ireland’s Department of Health, Head of Research & Development and Health Analytics

Full Conference Programme to be announced.