Why Attend

Now in its 17th year, CED's Biotech Conference unites the Southeast's life science community which is fueled by pioneering research and development and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Come celebrate what is widely considered one of the biotech industry’s top three economies in the country for this two-day program. Join top-notch industry executives, including the region's most innovative biotech entrepreneurs, major pharmaceutical companies, life science research leaders, policy makers and nationally prominent investors at the biotechnology event of the year- Biotech 2008.

Fast Facts illustrating the impact of life sciences on our economy (Facts provided by the North Carolina Biotechnology Center 2007):

• More than 350 biotechnology, pharmaceutical, lab testing and contract research companies operate in North Carolina, employing about 48,000 people statewide.
• North Carolina is a worldwide leader in agricultural biotechnology with more than 30 companies employing 2,500 people.
• North Carolina has the world's greatest concentration of contract research organizations (CROs) and testing companies.
• The biotechnology industry in North Carolina is growing about 10 percent a year.
• North Carolina has more than 50 public and private colleges and universities that drive the life sciences industry in North Carolina. More than 45 life sciences companies currently in business in North Carolina are based on technologies developed in the state's universities.
• North Carolina’s nationally acclaimed community college system offers customized skills training to new and expanding industries at little or no cost.

The Biotech conference draws a variety of top-notch industry executives, including the region's most innovative biotech entrepreneurs, major pharmaceutical companies, life science research leaders, policy makers and nationally prominent investors. Join us at Biotech 2008 to see firsthand why North Carolina is touted as one of the top three biotech economies in the nation.

Now in its 17th year, the Biotech conference has played host to numerous outstanding speakers, including:

• Dr. Anthony Atala, Senior Researcher and Director, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine
• Ira Flatow, Science Correspondent, National Public Radio (NPR)
• Dr. Leroy Hood, President, Institute for Systems Biology