SCbio 2025 Conference Showcases the Future of Life Sciences in South Carolina

SCbio unveils new campaign and industry pillars igniting growth in South Carolina's thriving life sciences ecosystem

CHARLESTON, S.C., Feb. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- To open the premier life sciences event in the Southeast, SCbio revealed its new initiative to showcase South Carolina's rapidly expanding industry, define its sectors and attract companies and individuals alike to "Build the life—and the science—that propels the future."

The full campaign, "Life + Science," underscores how South Carolina offers an exceptional balance of career and lifestyle. SCbio also further defined its three distinct pillars of the state's life sciences ecosystem: advanced biomanufacturing (pharmaceuticals, medical devices, as well as cell and gene therapy); cutting-edge health specializations (oncology, Alzheimer's and neuroscience); and the digital health and data frontier (spanning precision medicine, population health and telehealth).

"Our life sciences industry is making extraordinary strides, and this year's conference highlights the dynamic growth happening in South Carolina," said Dr. James Chappell, president and chief executive officer (CEO) of SCbio. "From cutting-edge research to the growth of startups across the state, there's significant momentum happening here. This campaign embodies our new direction and we're grateful for our marketing strategy partner, Inspire Agency, for all their help."

SCbio will again honor trailblazers in life sciences. A particular honor, the Pinnacle Awards, recognizes contributors who have sparked remarkable success, inspired leadership and propelled the industry. On the first day of the conference, SCbio announced this year's recipients, whose innovation and positive impact have shaped South Carolina's life sciences sector:

• Pinnacle Award for Individual Contribution – Dr. Steve Skinner, president and CEO of Greenwood Genetic Center.
• Pinnacle Award for Organizational Contribution – Charles River Laboratories.
• Rising Star Award – Dr. Lindsey Calcutt, CEO and co-founder of Incora Health.

The conference attracts more than 500 attendees from across the U.S. and highlights ongoing research spearheaded by scientific leaders within the state. The remainder of the two-day conference will feature a strategic outlook on South Carolina's life sciences industry, presented by Chappell and Alan Andress, senior manager – Deloitte.

Additionally, there will be sessions that emphasize how research and technologies from South Carolina companies and academic institutions are advancing life sciences. Further spotlights include the growth of the innovation districts, introducing new and emerging therapeutics and oncology startups, promoting the latest advancements in women's health and more.

"We're excited to showcase the immense upward trajectory of the state's life sciences community and its impact on the global stage," continued Chappell. "This is the fastest-growing segment of the state's economy, and we have an incredible story to tell."

About SCbio
SCbio is the definitive, unifying leader in South Carolina's life sciences sector, fostering authentic collaboration and innovation across academia, startups, government and established enterprises. As a member-driven economic development organization, SCbio represents more than 1,000 organizations employing more than 87,000 professionals. Our members are unified by a mission to positively impact humanity through science across the ecosystem of advanced and specialty manufacturing; digital health and the data frontier; and cutting-edge health specializations. For additional information about SCbio and the life sciences industry, or to become a member, visit SCbio.org.

SOURCE SCbio