ASCEND2.0, part of the NIH-funded I-RED West Program, continues to drive cutting-edge biomedical advancements across its partner institutions. Through strategic collaboration, ASCEND2.0 is accelerating research and commercialization efforts that address critical challenges in healthcare and technology.

At the University of Montana, researchers have joined ASCEND2.0 to combat the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance and accelerate drug discovery. Their work focuses on developing innovative strategies to fight resistant infections, addressing one of the most pressing global health concerns.

Meanwhile, at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Dr. Kory Grahl has been selected to lead an ASCEND2.0 project dedicated to advancing orthodontic technology. His research aims to revolutionize dental care by introducing innovative solutions that enhance treatment effectiveness and patient outcomes.

"ASCEND2.0 is proud to support groundbreaking research that has the potential to transform healthcare and improve lives," said John Chavez, managing director of ASCEND2.0. "By investing in the next generation of scientific discovery and commercialization, our program is fostering real-world innovation that will shape the future of biomedical technology."

ASCEND2.0 offers entrepreneurship modules and tools through the I-RED West Program to help biomedical researchers fast-track innovations from lab to market. Innovators gain vital business skills to commercialize healthcare technologies.