NSG BioLabs, Singapore's largest biotech co-working biosafety level 2 laboratory provider, and Amgen, one of the world's leading biotechnology companies, recognised the breakthrough biotech innovations at the third annual edition of ‘Amgen Golden Ticket competition’. Reflecting burgeoning interest in the industry and the vibrancy of Singapore’s biotech ecosystem, the collaborative initiative strives to advance Singapore’s biotech landscape and support innovative and high-growth startups. Furthermore, the Amgen Golden Ticket Programme has been extended for another three years exemplifying the commitment towards fostering the industry. Around the globe, the Golden Ticket initiative by Amgen is spurring innovation.

"NSG BioLabs empowers biotech startups by providing top-tier BSL-2 laboratory spaces, offering scientists a conducive environment to conduct their research, and bring their ideas to fruition. By fostering connections between leading pharmaceutical companies and pioneering startups, we cultivate collaboration that drives healthcare advancements. We deeply appreciate our strong partnership with the Amgen team and look forward to future collaborations with other industry leaders. Together, we are dedicated to advancing Singapore's biotech sector, fostering an environment where ideas thrive and transformative innovations flourish," said Daphne Teo, CEO and Founder, NSG BioLabs.

A pre-clinical stage biotech company, PairX Bio which pairs novel biology-based cancer targets with optimal therapeutic modalities to revolutionise cancer-selective biologics, was awarded the 2024 Amgen Golden Ticket. Amgen's extensive network of scientific and business leaders can serve as a valuable mentorship resource to  PairX Bio along with a year-long residency at NSG BioLabs’ fully-equipped lab space designed exclusively for cutting-edge research.

"Golden Ticket initiatives sponsored by Amgen around the world have been pivotal in fostering innovation and supporting promising companies such as PairX Bio. We are proud to contribute to the biotech sector in Singapore and remain committed to nurturing the next generation of biotech leaders with our extended commitment through 2027," states Dr. Alan Russell, Vice President, Biologics Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen.

“This recognition validates our groundbreaking development of next-generation cancer-selective biologics.. We look forward to leveraging this opportunity to further our mission of transforming cancer treatment and improving patient outcomes,” expressed David M. Epstein, Co-founder, CEO and President, PairX Bio.

The accolade follows in the footsteps of past recipients like Albatroz Therapeutics, a pre-clinical stage biotech company that develops therapeutic antibodies to treat solid tumors, and VerImmune, an immuno-oncology company focused on redirecting pre-existing immune memory from past infections or childhood vaccines to target cancer.