Live from BIO: Day one in review

FierceBiotech is reporting live from the annual BIO International Convention in Washington, D.C., this week. Check our our BIO 2011 microsite to keep up with news, events and tweets from the show. And if you haven't already, register now for FierceBiotech's executive breakfast tomorrow. We'll examine the issues facing today's drug developers as they navigate the challenges involved in obtaining FDA approval.

Merck looks to early-stage deals to feed pipeline
by Maureen Martino
Early stage discovery deals and academic partnerships are playing a big role in Merck's licensing strategy. That's according to David Nicholson, Senior Vice President and Head of Worldwide Licensing and Knowledge Management, who sat down with FierceBiotech at the BIO International Convention to discuss his company's approach to dealmaking. Interview

Competition gets fierce for innovative science
by Maureen Martino
At the height of recession, biotechs were hurting for cash. Big Pharma and its deep pockets were there to cherry-pick the best science at an affordable price from small companies that had little choice but to deal. But the balance of power has shifted in the past year.  The industry is scrambling for innovative pipeline programs--and biotechs are in the position to gain from Big Pharma's troubles. Report

Collaborations are key for vaccine industry
by Erica Teichert
As the vaccine market continues to grow--it's forecasted to hit $40 billion globally by 2015--there is a greater need for innovation in the field. That's according to a panel of vaccine experts who spoke yesterday at the 2011 BIO International Convention. Article

Otologic looks to cure hearing loss
by Liz Jones Hollis
FierceBiotech caught up with Oklahoma's Otologic at BIO 2011 Monday to learn more about this company whose mission is to cure hearing loss, a condition that affects millions in the U.S. Story