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Bridging Bioscience Borders: Innovation Across Arizona, Taiwan & Australia
Welcome Address
Jun 18, 2026, 5:45 PM - 6:05 PM MST
at CEI - Main Stage

Join representatives from leaders across Phoenix, Taiwan, and Australia as they showcase the collaborative initiatives, partnerships, and innovation programs connecting these regions. Learn how international cooperation is creating new opportunities for startups, researchers, and industry leaders to expand their impact on a global scale.

City of Phoenix Community and Economic Development Director, Ryan Touhill
City of Phoenix Bioscience Manager, Claudia Whitehead 
Representatives from BPIPO and AusTrade

Sponsored by: The City of Phoenix 

Speakers

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Claudia Whitehead
Bioscience Healthcare Manager
Claudia currently serves as the Bioscience Healthcare Program Manager for the City of Phoenix's Community and Economic Development Department. She is dedicated to supporting and promoting the growth of the innovation taking place in Phoenix and elevating the visibility of the community and those who are advancing technologies to positively impact the future of health for all while creating amazing career opportunities for Phoenix residents. Claudia has more than 20 years of economic development experience that started when she was in the Peace Corps in the Dominican Republic assisting women founders grow their businesses, she also volunteered with 2 other business organizations supporting economic development and entrepreneurs in Namibia and Ethiopia.    
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Ryan Touhill
Director
City of Phoenix Community & Economic Development Economic Development
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Steven Spezza
Trade and Investment Director, North Director
Australian Government, Australian Trade and Investment Commission
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Phil Georgios
Trade and Investment Commissioner, New York
Australian Government, Australian Trade and Investment Commission