BE Founders Day 2025

On May 20, 2025, the UCLA Bioengineering Department hosted the BE Founders Day, welcoming alumni, faculty, students, and guests for a full day of celebration, connection, and inspiration. Held in the Tannas Room of Engineering VI, the event spotlighted the entrepreneurial achievements of alumni and the future of bioengineering at UCLA. The day began with a Welcome Breakfast and Registration, where attendees enjoyed light refreshments and an opportunity to network. Dino Di Carlo, the BE department chair offered opening remarks, setting the tone for the day’s programming. Alumni then introduced themselves and shared stories of their ventures, highlighting diverse paths taken from UCLA labs to the front lines of biotech innovation. The morning featured two engaging alumni panels. The first, “From Lab to Market – The Journey of a Bioengineering Founder,” was moderated by Associate Professor Liang Gao and featured alumni Joe de Rutte, Christopher Korban, and Yi-Kai Lo. Panelists reflected on their entrepreneurial journeys, discussing key milestones and the realities of commercializing academic research.

After a coffee break and informal networking session, the second panel, “Industry Trends and the Future of Bioengineering Startups,” began. Moderated by Professor Wentai Liu, this session included insights from Westbrook Weaver, Eric Diebold, Henry Tse, and DA Wallach. The panelists explored current industry trends, emerging technologies, and investment opportunities shaping the future of bioengineering.

Attendees then gathered for a Networking Lunch, fostering deeper connections across generations of Bruins. In the early afternoon, Prof. Dino Di Carlo presented “The Future of Bioengineering at UCLA,” offering an update on new facilities, cutting-edge research, and the department’s strategic vision for advancing innovation. The afternoon continued with an Alumni-Student Panel in the Cohen Room, where a lively and interactive discussion centered on building a sustainable startup ecosystem. Panelists and students discussed scaling companies, lessons learned, and the critical role of mentorship in cultivating the next generation of bioengineers. The day concluded with a Closing Reception and Social Mixer on the First Floor Patio. Faculty, students, and alumni reunited over light refreshments, capping off a successful event with renewed energy, ideas, and a shared commitment to the future of bioengineering. Founders Day 2025 served as a powerful reminder of the strength and spirit of the UCLA Bioengineering community—where innovation, collaboration, and a passion for impact continue to thrive.   Check out a photo gallery of the event below!