For Episode 23 of 17 Minutes of Science we are joined by Dave Bjork. Dave is the director of Community Relations at FRAXA Research Foundation, the Founder of FRAXA Biotech Games, and a Patient Advocate. He has more than 20 years of progressive experience in nonprofit marketing, patient advocacy and fundraising leadership roles including Vice President of Development, National Foundation for Cancer Research, Bethesda, MD. In this role, he launched several fundraising programs and became known as the “Cancer Research Evangelist” because of his dedication and commitment to basic scientific research. Bjork has made it his life mission to connect individuals, businesses, academic institutions and other key influencers to forge strong partnerships to focus on research. In his role at FRAXA, he is actively building strong relationships with Fragile X families and the scientific community. He also advocates for the important role patient groups play in working with the biopharma industry. Bjork earned a BS in Economics and Finance from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

Dave joins us to discuss Fragile X, what it is, progress being made towards a cure, and his work to raise awareness for the disease.