Wexford Science & Technology, LLC, announced today that it has hired Mark VanderZyl to serve as the founding site director of the Baltimore location of Connect Labs by Wexford, the flexible, scale-in-place lab and innovation infrastructure offering located within Wexford’s dynamic and amenity-rich Knowledge Communities.  Connect Labs Baltimore is set to open in November 2024 at Wexford’s newest building, 4MLK, within the University of Maryland BioPark in Baltimore, Maryland.

Mark VanderZyl most recently served as the Associate Director of Startup Advancement within Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures, where he had been for the better part of a decade. Over that period of time, he developed expertise in understanding the needs of early-stage companies and connecting them to the talent and resources they need to take their ideas to scale.

“I’m thrilled to continue supporting life sciences companies and advancing new technologies at Connect Labs. I have found that the shared space, vibrant community, and extensive resources here can significantly impact companies as they launch or expand. I am particularly excited about the positive impact this can have locally in Baltimore,” said VanderZyl. “Baltimore possesses so many of the essential elements for an ecosystem like this to thrive. Connect Labs will serve as a catalyst for economic development by retaining local companies that have spun out of the region and attracting new companies to Baltimore.” 

Mark will begin his new role on August 26, 2024. One of the first items of business Mark will tackle is building out the Connect Labs Baltimore team. The role of Director of Lab Operations is currently open, and two Operations Associates will be hired closer to the opening date.

“I am excited to welcome Mark to the Connect Labs Baltimore team. With his experience in advancing life science startups and his deep commitment to the local ecosystem, I am confident he will be a valuable addition to our organization and a driving force in supporting Baltimore’s life sciences companies,” said Kathy Webb, Wexford’s Vice President of Connect Labs 

Connect Labs Baltimore will comprise 35,000 square feet featuring pre-built and furnished lab, support, and office space with a curated set of amenities, services, and shared equipment for emerging and growth companies, particularly in life sciences, biomedical engineering, technology, and data sciences, among others.

The University of Maryland, Baltimore partnered with Wexford to establish the Baltimore location of Connect Labs by Wexford to provide much needed flexible lab spaces and support resources, not only to UMB start-ups, but for companies across the region.

“Under Mark’s leadership, Connect Labs Baltimore will accelerate the growth of numerous biotech companies, bringing medical discoveries to patients and jobs to Baltimore.” said Jim Hughes, Chief Enterprise and Economic Development Officer and Senior Vice President at University of Maryland, Baltimore. 

Located on the third floor of 4MLK, Connect Labs Baltimore will offer a mix of lab configurations, support and office spaces that can be arranged to suit specific needs from 230 square feet to over 3000 square feet. ​     ​ ​​     ​​

Moreover, Connect Labs members will have access to specialized shared equipment; negotiated rates on additional equipment, consumables, and supplies; exclusive Connect Labs community events to connect with peers; and common amenities such as conference and huddle spaces, basic office equipment, lightly stocked kitchen, and centralized support services provided by a knowledgeable staff.

The inaugural mix of Connect Labs Baltimore tenants are currently being recruited. Connect Labs plans to house university and regional startups, capital providers, corporate innovation teams, teams focused on advancing healthy equity, and value-added services providers.
​​​     ​​
Connect Labs by Wexford’s expansion to Baltimore also builds on the success of Connect Labs Phoenix, which provides similar spaces and services currently to 15 companies and research organizations across Phoenix, Arizona.

To schedule a tour, apply for a position, or learn more about Connect Labs by Wexford, please visit wexfordconnectlabs.com.