DLA Piper announced that Lauren Murdza has joined the firm’s Life Sciences sector and Corporate practice as a partner in the Philadelphia office.

Murdza advises life sciences and healthcare companies on complex transactions involving corporate partnering and collaborations, strategic alliances, technology licenses, and commercial contracts such as manufacturing and distribution agreements. She also represents clients in M&A, financings, and general corporate matters.

“Lauren has a deep understanding of technology and life sciences transactions and emerging growth companies,” said Lisa Haile, co-chair of DLA Piper’s Global Life Sciences sector. “Talented practitioners like her are in increasing demand due to the resurgence in funding for biotech, pharma and medical device companies on the heels of several high-profile IPO exits and M&A deals.”

Murdza joins DLA Piper from Morgan Lewis. Her arrival closely follows the addition Fahd Riaz, who recently joined DLA Piper as a partner in Philadelphia.

“With the additions of Lauren and Fahd, we are continuing to build a preeminent corporate practice in Philadelphia with the ability to meet the transactional needs of life sciences companies across the country,” said Carl Buchholz, managing partner of DLA Piper’s Philadelphia office. “They bring diverse and sophisticated skill sets that will complement our office’s collaborative approach to serving clients across sectors and regions.”

In addition to her practice, Murdza is the president of the Benjamin Franklin American Inn of Court, a local mentorship program, and has previously served as its secretary. She is also a member of the American Intellectual Property Law Association, Philadelphia Intellectual Property Law Association, and the American Bar Association. She is admitted to practice in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Murdza earned her J.D. from Villanova University School of Law and her B.S. from Loyola College in Maryland.