SPEC Labs, a national provider of coworking wet lab facilities for Canada’s life sciences sector, today announced the appointment of two new distinguished leaders, Abdullah Snobar and Bob Hill, to its Board of Directors.
Bob Hill brings decades of experience in life sciences, commercialization, and strategic operations. A seasoned executive and advisor, Bob’s leadership has helped guide numerous early-stage life sciences companies through scale-up, regulatory navigation, and partnership growth. His strategic insight will support SPEC Labs as it expands its footprint and deepens its value to life sciences residents and partners across the region.
“I am excited to join the Board of Directors of SPEC Labs and work with such a talented leadership group,” said Bob Hill. “We have a vibrant life sciences sector in Canada and I am delighted to play a role in helping to address such a critical need for our ecosystem.”
Abdullah Snobar is the Executive Director of the DMZ at Toronto Metropolitan University, one of Canada’s top startup incubators, and a nationally recognized leader in entrepreneurship and innovation policy. His expertise in ecosystem building, equity in innovation, and supporting high-growth startups aligns seamlessly with SPEC Labs’ mission to empower the next generation of life sciences entrepreneurs.
“Canada’s life sciences sector needs bold infrastructure and bold vision. SPEC Labs is delivering both,” said Abdullah Snobar. “I’m honoured to support its mission of helping emerging biotech founders scale breakthrough innovations right here at home.”
These appointments come at a pivotal moment as SPEC Labs prepares to open its flagship location in Mississauga, Ontario. The facility will serve as a launchpad for graduation-stage biotech and life sciences companies, providing critical lab infrastructure and a supportive commercialization environment.
“Abdullah and Bob bring unique and highly complementary strengths to the Board,” said Doris Qamar, CEO of SPEC Labs. “Abdullah’s leadership in building high-performance innovation ecosystems and Bob’s financial and operational insight will directly support our growth strategy as we expand across Canada.”
At the same time, SPEC Labs is announcing the departure of two long-standing board members: Dr. Pamela Plant and Dr. Leyla Soleymani. Both played foundational roles in guiding SPEC Labs from its inception through to its current launch phase.
“Pamela and Leyla have been instrumental to our success,” said Doris Qamar. “Their guidance, energy, and belief in SPEC Labs’ mission helped shape the organization into what it is today. We are deeply thankful for their contributions and wish them the very best in their next chapters.”
As SPEC Labs moves forward, the expanded Board will help steer the organization through its first facility opening and national growth. The new appointments underscore SPEC Labs’ commitment to strong governance, strategic partnerships, and mission-driven leadership in Canada’s life sciences ecosystem.
For more information, visit www.speclabs.ca.
About SPEC Labs
SPEC Labs is a not-for-profit operator of coworking wet lab facilities purpose-built for Canada’s graduation-stage life sciences companies. With a model inspired by global best practices, SPEC Labs provides flexible, affordable lab space and wraparound support to help emerging biotech ventures thrive.
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Media Contact:
Email: hello@speclabs.ca
