Knoxville-based Helix Biotech, Inc. joins Life Science Tennessee’s membership. We sat down with Helix’s founder, Graham Taylor to learn more about the company:
Tell us about Helix Biotech.
Helix Biotech is a Customer and Quality focused Pharmaceutical Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) specializing in Lipid Nanoparticles, Liposomes, and Hybrid Nanoparticles. Helix Biotech performs contract services for clients to fulfill their needs in research, development, and manufacturing of advanced pharmaceuticals. Helix also manufactures innovative tools and reagent systems that simplify advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing. These systems are built for simplicity, with an emphasis on consistent quality, robustness, and ease of use to promote rapid adoption and deployment in the manufacturing of future nanomedicines.
How do you define the “life sciences?”
Deep question…I am resisting the urge to write a small dissertation here. Science that can improve the quality of life for all of humanity – we’re in!
Why are you a member of Life Science Tennessee?
We joined LST to take advantage of industrial partnerships (i.e. preferred pricing on Bio through suppliers like VWR) and to strengthen our network regarding other potential partners and synergistic opportunities in Tennessee.
Where do you think there is the most energy and opportunity in Tennessee for life science innovations?
Tennessee is centrally located, simplifying shipping and transport logistics from coast-to-coast in the US as well as internationally. Tennessee is also fortunate to have access to tremendous talent coming from the University of Tennessee and Vanderbilt, Oak Ridge National Lab, and private-sector growth in life sciences in the major cities (Nashville, Memphis, Chattanooga, Knoxville). Another important factor is the relatively low cost of living, compared to areas like Boston, MA or San Francisco, CA, that makes it easier attract/retain talent from out-of state while keeping business operating costs at a healthy level.
On a (slightly) lighter note, what is your favorite place to visit in the state of Tennessee?
This is a tough one, but our answer is going to be something related to our wealth in terms of the outdoors! GSMNP and the Appalachian Mountains would have to take the top spot :) We are fortunate to live in an area with so many options for hiking, biking, climbing, kayaking, fishing – basically, any outdoor activities you could want to get into!
Above: Graham Taylor, founder and president of Helix Biotech, Inc.
Learn more about Helix Biotech: https://www.helix-biotech.com/
