Life Sciences
Life Science Companies in Ottawa
Examples of Ottawa's Life Science Brilliance
These companies are taking advantage of Ottawa's world-class environment for leading-edge products, technologies and innovations.
Turnstone
Based on research led by Dr. John Bell (from The Ottawa Hospital and uOttawa), Dr. Brian Lichty (from McMaster University) and Dr. David Stojdl (formerly from CHEO and uOttawa), Turnstone Biologics was founded to advance the development of viral immunotherapies and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes therapies for treating cancers. A testament to research led innovation, the company’s commercialization outcomes have garnered significant financial support from the investor community. In 2016, Turnstone secured the largest venture capital (VC) deal in Ottawa since 2013 and the second largest biotech VC deal in Canada for 2016.
SHOEBOX
In 2005, a CHEO surgeon, a university professor, three research scientists, and one software developer founded SHOEBOX (formerly known as Clearwater Clinical) in Ottawa. Since that time, SHOEBOX is leading the evolution of hearing testing solutions for the occupational hearing conservation market. The company has developed the first automated-hearing test on an iPad that is optimized for testing outside a sound booth. More than 1,000 customers are using SHOEBOX’s solutions.
Abbott Point of Care
In Ottawa, Abbott Point of Care develops and manufactures the I-STAT System for performing rapid blood analysis at the patient’s bedside. This handheld technology can deliver lab quality results within minutes, which means that blood samples will not have to be sent off to the lab for testing. The device has been deployed in emergency departments, intensive care units, operating rooms, outpatient clinics, and physician offices.
Boston Scientific
The company develops and manufactures TheraSphere™ Y-90 Glass Microspheres in Ottawa, which are the most efficient and powerful hepatocellular carcinoma therapy that safely delivers high dose radiation with optimal patient outcomes. TheraSphere’s unique ability to deliver high dose radiation with fewer spheres allows for maximum absorbed dose, and increased tumor response while preserving healthy tissue.
