Interview with Kenn Turner, CEO of the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center

R3think Everything

Episode Summary

In this transformative episode of R3think Everything, we sit down with Kenn Turner, a trailblazer in the life sciences ecosystem. As the current steward of a major life sciences center, Kenn shares his journey and vision for fostering an inclusive and innovative future in life sciences across Massachusetts. From the historic investment of $623 million to bolster the ecosystem's preeminence, to the ambitious strategy of regionalization, Kenn discusses the pivotal steps being taken to spread success beyond the Boston-Cambridge area and into every corner of the state.

Key Highlights

• Trailblazing Leadership: Discover how Kenn Turner's leadership is shaping the future of life sciences in Massachusetts, focusing on diversity, equity, and innovation.
• Massive Investments for Future Growth: Learn about the significant investments made under Kenn's guidance, aiming to secure Massachusetts' leading position in the life sciences industry.
• Strategic Regionalization: Kenn elaborates on the strategic approach to extend the ecosystem's success to rural and underserved communities, promising economic upliftment and job creation across the state.
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): Dive into Kenn's DEI initiatives, including his impactful tenure directing DEI efforts at the port authority, and how he plans to integrate these values into the life sciences sector.
• Innovation and Workforce Development: Explore the innovative strategies to not only retain R&D within Massachusetts but to ensure manufacturing and operational excellence are also local, bolstering the state's economy and creating new opportunities.

Notable Quotes

• "Our capital is our workforce... we have the smartest, hardest working people in the United States." - Kenn Turner on leveraging Massachusetts' intellectual prowess.
• "We need to lift up that good work in science in areas that erstwhile they wouldn't look at... it's about intentionality." - On diversifying the focus areas of life sciences research and development.
• "If you can come to that job with no experience in DNI and then have your work be held up as a national model... I think we can do the same in life sciences." - Reflecting on the success of DEI initiatives and their potential impact on the life sciences sector.

Episode Conclusion

Kenn Turner's insights offer a compelling look at the future of life sciences, emphasizing the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and regional development. His dedication to spreading success throughout Massachusetts and ensuring the life sciences sector remains a beacon of innovation and opportunity is both inspiring and a call to action for leaders everywhere.

Tune into this episode of R3think Everything to hear more about how strategic investment, inclusive leadership, and innovative thinking are setting the stage for a brighter, more equitable future in life sciences and community development.