Brian Stemme is the CEO of the Hoosier Cancer Research Network (HCRN), an independent, nonprofit organization that conducts oncology clinical research through a network of more than 100 academic institutions and community hospitals across the country. He leads a team of 55 professionals who have enrolled nearly 1,000 cancer patients in clinical trials during the past two years.
With more than 20 years of experience driving strategic growth and impact for nonprofit research and advocacy organizations, he has expertise in identifying new business investment and growth opportunities, building collaborative partnerships, and leading high-performing teams to advance research.
Widely regarded as a champion of Indiana’s life sciences industry, Stemme was previously the senior vice president for external engagement at BioCrossroads, an organization that advances Indiana’s life sciences industry and is one of the sector initiatives of the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP).
Stemme led CICP’s efforts to attract and retain life sciences investments in Indiana for the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, including Abbott Cardiovascular’s $37 million medical device manufacturing facility, Telix Pharmaceuticals’ U.S. headquarters, and Medco’s automated pharmacy facility in Lebanon. In addition, Stemme also directed key early-stage activities for the 16 Tech Innovation District in Indianapolis, including recruitment of prospective life sciences tenants. He also co-founded and launched AgriNovus Indiana, an economic development entity that leverages Indiana’s strengths in agricultural innovation. Previously, Stemme worked at Eli Lilly and Company in corporate affairs and finance.
He also serves as an expert source for Indiana and national media on the life sciences sector, including new business models, industry trends, and venture capital investment.
Stemme is a member of the Butler University Board of Trustees, his undergraduate alma mater, and was president of the university’s alumni association from 2005 to 2008. He was a member of the Executive Advisory Board for the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association, and co-founded Indy Science Connect.
