The Biotechnology Council of New Jersey has become the state's leading advocate for a rapidly growing industry that encompasses biopharmaceutical, biomedical, bio-agricultural and bio-remedial firms. Since its founding in 1994, the group has played important roles in promoting national awareness of New Jersey as a technology mecca that spends more than $12 billion annually on research and development and boasts the highest concentration of scientists and engineers in the nation.

Led by Debbie Hart, the group's executive director, and H. Joseph Reiser, Ph.D., its chairman, the council has combined innovation with advocacy. Initiatives include programs that encourage biotech firms to remain or relocate in New Jersey and government affairs efforts that shepherd economic stimulus packages through the legislature.

Known as the voice of biotechnology in New Jersey, the council has helped stimulate industry growth through promotional efforts and outreach assistance. The annual New Jersey High-Tech Hall of Fame program, jointly hosted by the council and the American Electronics Association, recognizes industry and government leaders for their innovation. An annual symposium, co-sponsored by its Pennsylvania counterpart, is the largest regional biotechnology meeting in the nation. The council also collaborates with leading business groups and provides purchasing programs and educational and networking opportunities to its more than 100 member companies.

Hart, who helped found the organization, has been active in association management for 15 years and holds technology advisory positions at both NJIT and the state Economic Development Authority. In 2001, she was honored by the Women's Fund of New Jersey for her contributions to the advancement of science in the biotechnology industry. Under her leadership, the council spearheaded New Jersey's Coalition on Biotechnology and became part of Prosperity New Jersey's Innovation Garden State Alliance. Hart holds a bachelor's degree from the College of New Jersey and a master's from Syracuse University.