Witnessing The Evolution Of Biotech In North Carolina

By E. Magnus Ohman, Amgen

E. Magnus Ohman, vice president of global development, general medicine, Amgen, reflects on the remarkable evolution of North Carolina's biotechnology sector, tracing its growth from humble origins to a thriving ecosystem. His journey began in 1996 with Robert M. Califf, who is now the United States Commissioner of Food and Drugs, at the Duke Clinical Research Institute, where they aimed to enhance clinical research methodologies. Ohman underscores the critical need for efficient clinical trials and the translation of academic innovations into viable treatments, a mission supported by the North Carolina Biotechnology Center (NCBiotech). As he transitions from academia to industry with Amgen's new manufacturing facility in Holly Springs, Ohman highlights the importance of merging scientific expertise with community needs. He emphasizes the collaborative spirit among academia, industry, and NCBiotech, which is vital for advancing North Carolina's life sciences sector.