Larry Bock, a pioneer in the field of biotechnology and an influential entrepreneur, passed away on July 6, 2016. His death was reportedly due to complications from pancreatic cancer, a diagnosis he had battled in silence for years. Despite the personal challenge of his illness, Bock continued his passionate work in science advocacy and innovation until the end of his life.
Bock’s influence on the biotech industry was profound. A driven visionary, he co-founded and funded over 40 life sciences companies, often focusing on transformative advancements in healthcare, diagnostics, and technology. His companies, such as Nanosys and Illumina, had a global impact on scientific research and innovation. Illumina, in particular, revolutionized the field of DNA sequencing, making significant contributions to personalized medicine and genomic research.
Beyond his role as an entrepreneur, Bock was a dedicated science advocate. He co-founded the USA Science and Engineering Festival, an event aimed at inspiring young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Through his work with the festival, Bock touched countless lives, inspiring future generations to explore the wonders of science. His efforts emphasized the importance of engaging the public with science in an accessible and exciting way.
Larry Bock’s passing left a significant void in the biotechnology community. Remembered for his relentless optimism and commitment to scientific progress, he is honored as a transformative figure whose contributions continue to inspire both current and future innovators in the field.