Some biotech startups are looking beyond follow-on biologics and banking on "biobetters," drugs that are similar but not identical to brand-name biopharmaceuticals and could have improved safety and effectiveness, among other advantages. Femta Pharmaceuticals hopes to achieve biobetter success with Fm101, a rheumatoid arthritis drug that blocks the interleukin-6 protein instead of inhibiting the IL-6 receptor, as done by Genentech's Actemra.

For more details, click on the link below:
http://blogs.wsj.com/venturecapital/2010/08/10/a-race-to-develop-better-performing-biopharmaceuticals/

The Prix du Québec have existed in their current form since 1977. Each year, the government attributes five awards in the scientific field. The purpose of this tribute is to recognize the career of women and men who have demonstrated a passion for their calling. Individuals who have stood out by their creative or innovative spirit and whose work has contributed to the influence of Québec around the world and to the evolution of Québec society in their respective fields.

Winners receive a $30,000 tax-free grant.

For more details on the nomination procedures, click on: (In French only)
http://www.prixduquebec.gouv.qc.ca/gpq-autres/english.html

The FRSQ (Fonds de la recherche en santé du Québec) is seeking an Assistant Director, Scientific Affairs, program management.

For more details, click on the document attached (In French only)

The Engage Grants (EG) Program is intended to give companies that operate from a Canadian base access to the unique knowledge and expertise available at Canadian universities. This program is intended to foster the development of new research partnerships between academic researchers and companies that have never collaborated together before, by supporting short-term research and development projects aimed at addressing a company-specific problem.

Value: Up to $25,000 for up to six months
Application deadline: No deadline
Program Contacts: Contact the NSERC regional office in your area.

For more information and to apply, click on:
http://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Professors-Professeurs/RPP-PP/Engage-Engagement_eng.asp

The Interaction Grants (IG) Program is intended to give companies that operate from a Canadian base and researchers from Canadian an opportunity to meet and identify a company-specific problem they could solve by collaborating in a subsequent research partnership.

Value: Up to $5,000 for up to three months
Application deadline: No deadline
Program Contacts: Contact the NSERC regional office in your area.

For more information and to apply, click on:
http://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Professors-Professeurs/RPP-PP/Interaction-Interaction_eng.asp