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NSCEB Launches Biotech Across America Roadshow

On June 6, 2025, the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) commenced its much-anticipated Biotech Across America roadshow in Raleigh, North Carolina. This initiative aims to explore the flourishing U.S. biotechnology landscape while engaging with local leaders from various sectors. Vice Chair Michelle Rozo initiated the event by meeting with significant representatives from North Carolina’s biotechnology ecosystem, emphasizing collaboration among academic institutions, industry groups, and policymakers.

A Crucial Moment for Biotechnology

This summer, the three-month tour will spotlight the innovative work carried out across the nation in biotechnology. NSCEB commissioners are eager to learn from emerging companies, workforce development programs, and important policies that are positioning the industry for growth. As Rozo stated, "The Commission's job is far from finished. We are taking our report on the road and continuing the conversation with the people across America doing biotech work every day. Together, we can strengthen this vital ecosystem and advance our national and economic security."

North Carolina is uniquely positioned to lead in biopharma manufacturing and has a robust workforce development framework that is essential for national advancement in biotechnology. During her visit, Rozo first held discussions about the state of North Carolina's biotechnology industry with leaders from the North Carolina Biotechnology Center (NCBiotech) and Co-Chairs of the NC General Assembly’s Life Sciences Caucus.

Tour Highlights: Discussions and Innovations

The roadshow included a visit to the Novonesis enzyme manufacturing facility where discussions centered around recent agricultural biotechnology innovations and their critical role in fostering national security and economic independence. Participants sought ways to enhance agricultural resilience through innovations in biotechnology.

At a showcase event, attendees witnessed various local biotech innovations that have the potential to shape the future significantly. Doug Edgeton, president and CEO of NCBiotech remarked, "For more than 40 years, NCBiotech and the state of North Carolina have strategically invested in biotechnology and life sciences. Given this critical moment for advancing U.S. leadership in biotechnology for national security and economic resilience, North Carolina is well-positioned to execute the Commission's recommendations."

Stakeholder Engagement and Future Vision

Rozo's visit underscored the importance of engaging all stakeholders, from policymakers to community leaders, in efforts to increase access to biotechnology-driven solutions. As noted by Tue Micheelsen, President of Novonesis, the current moment is pivotal and requires collective action to expand access to biotech innovations for the benefit of all communities.

The North Carolina life sciences industry thrives on strong support from state legislators, municipalities, and academic institutions. Acknowledging this, Laura Gunter, president of NCLifeSci, highlighted how North Carolina is evolving as a prominent hub for agricultural technology and pharmaceuticals, promoting industry growth via progressive policies and investments.

A Broader Goal: National and Economic Security

The roadshow intends not just to showcase North Carolina but also to motivate other states to follow their lead in fostering a robust biotechnology ecosystem. It aims to address challenges in vital areas such as biomanufacturing, training, and securing domestic supply chains essential for meeting public health needs.

The NSCEB continues to play a crucial role at this transformative juncture, gathering insights and articulating the importance of biotechnology solutions that resonate with broader goals of sustainability and security. To keep up to date with the NSCEB's roadshow progress and events, stakeholders can visit www.biotech.senate.gov. This initiative is a significant step toward realizing a future fortified by innovative biotechnology, echoing the statement made by Rozo: "The tools to solve complex challenges and improve lives exist now; we simply need to amplify and extend them to reach everyone."