Cybersecurity: Strategic Defenses for Life Sciences

Maryland entrepreneur, CEO, investor, and advisor, Deborah Hemingway, PhD, Managing Partner, Ecphora Capital, welcomes special guest Chris May MS, CISSP, Security Solutions Director, to dive into the intricacies of security solutions for life science companies.

SCHEDULE

11:30am - Networking + Lunch

12:00pm - Seminar & Discussion

SYNOPSIS:

Join us for a critical session on cybersecurity, tailored specifically for life science companies, presented by Chris May, Director of Security at Advantage Technology. This presentation will address the unique cyber threats of 2024 that directly impact life sciences, detailing strategic approaches to bolster your organization's cyber resilience in the face of these challenges.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

• Sector-Specific Cyber Threat Analysis: Examine incidents like the politicization of cybersecurity tools and the extensive damage caused by ransomware attacks such as WannaCry and NotPetya, with a focus on their implications for life sciences, from research data to regulatory compliance.
• Human Error and Compliance Risks: Understand how employee errors not only lead to breaches but also compromise compliance with stringent industry regulations, stressing the importance of specialized training and a proactive security culture in life sciences.
• Adapting to Emerging Cybersecurity Trends: Explore how Cybercrime as a Service (CaaS), business email compromise (BEC) attacks, and evolving tactics by threat actors pose particular risks to the confidentiality and integrity of clinical research and patient data.
• Future Predictions with Life Science Focus: Delve into how geopolitical instability and economic pressures, compounded by the introduction of disruptive technologies like AI, are likely to influence cybercrime in the life sciences sector. Discuss the specific challenges of safeguarding IP in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
• Tailored Cyber Resilience Strategies for Life Sciences: Gain insights into industry-specific best practices for data protection, including comprehensive risk assessments, targeted security awareness training, and robust incident response plans suited to the needs of life sciences.
• Evolving Security Operations in Life Sciences: Learn about the transition from basic security implementations to the development of a mature Security Operations Center (SOC) capable of addressing the sophisticated threats faced by life sciences organizations. Explore how SOC-as-a-Service can provide scalable, expert-driven security management tailored to the sector’s needs.

ABOUT CHRIS MAY

As the Director of Security Solutions at Advantage Technology, my primary role involves orchestrating cybersecurity initiatives and strategies that safeguard vital information assets. My collaborative approach entails engaging with C-suite executives and department heads, understanding the unique security landscape of each entity, and crafting tailored strategies. The core of my expertise lies in pinpointing vulnerabilities within existing IT infrastructures and advocating for the adoption of cutting-edge solutions to mitigate risks, all while unlocking new avenues for business growth.

My cybersecurity acumen is substantially enriched by my background in diverse high-stakes environments. At DuPont Chemical, I thrived as an Operations Manager, where I honed my skills in navigating the intricacies of large-scale operational ecosystems. This role demanded rigorous adherence to compliance protocols, a skill I’ve carried into my current position to ensure seamless operational continuity aligned with organizational standards and industry regulations. Further back, my service in the US Navy was foundational, offering me an intensive education in Nuclear Engineering and OT/Production cybersecurity while instilling a discipline that has been indispensable throughout my career.

One of my proudest professional milestones is being a trusted ICS/IoT cybersecurity consultant for a Fortune 100 chemical company. This responsibility, coupled with leading an operational team of over 100 staff and harnessing technology to significantly boost operational efficiency, underscores my capacity to manage complex scenarios and drive tangible results.

Beyond my professional commitments, I have a profound interest in cultural diversity and make it a point to travel internationally whenever possible. I find solace in nature, frequently engaging in runs, hikes, and woodland walks to rejuvenate and maintain mental clarity.

ABOUT ECPHORA CAPITAL

Ecphora Capital is an early-stage medtech venture firm in Baltimore supporting the state’s most promising medical device and biotech companies. Learn more.

ABOUT FULTON BANK

Fulton Bank supports your growth from concept to market. Life sciences and technology sectors are rapidly evolving and their Life Sciences & Technology Group is transforming the way they support your unique needs.

From vaccines to medical devices and from cyber to ag tech, Fulton's expertise enables you to focus on making a difference, not on day-to-day finances. Whatever stage you’re in—startup, early growth, or established company—our dedicated team offers products, services, and resources designed to help you succeed. Learn more.

ABOUT BIOBUZZ

A leading life sciences ecosystem builder, BioBuzz has grown a vibrant community of industry professionals and leaders across the Mid-Atlantic that captures the attention of a national audience. Since our inception, we’ve remained community-focused, community-forward, & community-driven. That’s why thousands of industry professionals trust BioBuzz as an authority for industry insights and networking. Learn more.

Host or Publisher Ecphora Capital