The biopharmaceutical industry in North Carolina stands as a robust branch of the healthcare sector. It is primarily focused on developing drugs derived from biological sources, including proteins and cells. Companies here range from biotech startups to established firms that specialize in drug discovery, development, and manufacturing. The sector is experiencing substantial growth due to increasing investment in personalized medicine and gene therapies. Furthermore, collaborations with universities and research institutions bolster innovation, while government support fosters a conducive environment for clinical trials. This vibrant ecosystem sets the stage for significant advancements in healthcare solutions.

This list features a variety of companies located in North Carolina, spanning small startups to large corporate entities. Established from 1997 to 2022, these firms specialize in areas like immunotherapy, gene therapy, and RNA-based treatments. Their employee count ranges from just a handful to over 5,000, highlighting the expansive influence of the sector. Most companies are anchored in scientific hubs like Durham and Morrisville, contributing to a growing landscape of biopharmaceutical innovation.

Read on to discover more about the top biopharmaceutical companies in North Carolina.

Top 20 Biopharmaceuticals Companies in North Carolina

1. FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies

• Website: fujifilmdiosynth.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Morrisville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Denmark 43%, United States (USA) 40%, United Kingdom (UK) 17%
• Latest funding: $890.0M, August 2019
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: fujifilm-diosynth-biotechnologies

FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies is a biotechnology company based in Morrisville, North Carolina, specializing in contract development and manufacturing services for biologics, vaccines, and advanced therapies. Founded in 2011, the company has quickly established itself as a key player in the biopharmaceutical industry. They partner with pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, providing essential expertise in cGMP processes to ensure the safe and effective delivery of products. With a workforce of over 5,000 employees distributed across facilities in the United States, Denmark, the United Kingdom, and Japan, FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies supports clients through all phases of drug development, from initial research to commercialization. Their capabilities include mammalian cell culture, microbial fermentation, and advanced therapies such as gene and cell therapy. The company has made significant investments in expanding its manufacturing capacity, including a recent $890 million funding round aimed at enhancing their production capabilities. This strategic focus on innovation and quality positions them as a vital contributor to the biopharmaceutical sector.

2. Mycovia Pharmaceuticals

• Website: mycovia.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: mycovia-pharmaceuticals

Mycovia Pharmaceuticals, based in Durham, North Carolina, is a biopharmaceutical company established in 2018. The firm is dedicated to developing innovative therapies aimed at addressing overlooked medical conditions, with a strong emphasis on women's health. Mycovia's mission revolves around treatment equality, striving to meet the needs of patients who have been underserved in the healthcare system. The company is actively involved in the research and commercialization of novel pharmaceuticals, including VIVJOA® (oteseconazole), which targets specific health issues that have not received adequate attention. Mycovia's leadership team brings extensive experience from the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, further enhancing their capability to make a meaningful impact. Their commitment to both local and global communities through charitable initiatives underscores their holistic approach to healthcare.

3. Ribometrix Inc.

• Website: ribometrix.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $7.8M, September 2019
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ribometrix

Ribometrix Inc., founded in 2014 and based in Durham, North Carolina, is a biotechnology firm that specializes in drug discovery and development with a focus on RNA biology. The company is dedicated to creating small molecule therapeutics aimed at treating complex diseases, including various forms of cancer, central nervous system disorders, and autoimmune diseases. Ribometrix employs a unique approach that involves directly targeting RNA to prevent the production of disease-causing proteins. This innovative strategy allows them to tackle targets that are often considered difficult or impossible to drug using conventional methods. Ribometrix has received $7.8 million in funding as of September 2019, which supports their ongoing research and development initiatives. Their commitment to advancing RNA-targeted therapies is reflected in their active partnerships with pharmaceutical companies, enhancing their potential impact in the biopharmaceutical industry.

4. BioCytics Inc

• Website: biocytics.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Huntersville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $100,000, October 2024
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: biocytics-inc.

BioCytics Inc, founded in 2005 and based in Huntersville, North Carolina, is a biotechnology company dedicated to advancing cancer treatment through immunotherapy and cellular therapies. The company operates a Human Applications Laboratory that supports the development of novel therapies and personalized medicine solutions. BioCytics offers a range of services, including cGMP manufacturing, clinical trial management, and laboratory diagnostics, catering to pharmaceutical companies and research institutions. Their commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their comprehensive approach to clinical trials and biospecimen banking. Recently, BioCytics secured funding, which underscores their active role in the biopharmaceutical industry and their ongoing efforts to bring cutting-edge therapies to patients.

5. Bamboo Therapeutics, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of Pfizer Inc.

• Website: bambootherapeutics.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $654.0M, August 2016
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bamboo-therapeutics

Bamboo Therapeutics, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Pfizer Inc., is based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Established in 2014, the company is dedicated to the development of innovative gene therapies aimed at treating rare diseases. Bamboo Therapeutics leverages cutting-edge research and technology to create treatments that address significant unmet medical needs. The company operates within the broader framework of Pfizer, benefiting from its resources and expertise while focusing on specialized therapeutic areas. With a workforce of approximately 48 employees, Bamboo Therapeutics is positioned to make meaningful contributions to the biopharmaceutical industry, particularly in the field of gene therapy. The company has attracted substantial funding, totaling $654 million, which supports its research and development efforts.

6. AskBio Inc.

• Website: askbio.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 75%, United Kingdom (UK) 14%, France 6%, Other 5%
• Latest funding: $2.0B, October 2020
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: askbio

AskBio Inc., officially known as Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Inc., is a biotechnology firm based in Durham, North Carolina. Established in 2001, the company focuses on developing innovative gene therapies aimed at treating genetic diseases. Utilizing its proprietary AAV gene therapy technology, AskBio collaborates with various researchers and healthcare providers to create life-saving therapies. The company has a strong emphasis on addressing significant unmet medical needs across a range of genetic conditions, including neuromuscular disorders and central nervous system diseases. AskBio has also made notable strides in the field of gene therapy, having been the first for-profit organization to receive a grant from the Muscular Dystrophy Association. With a workforce of over 500 employees and a global presence, AskBio continues to advance its clinical pipeline and research initiatives, demonstrating its commitment to transforming medicine and improving patient outcomes.

7. Immorna

• Website: immorna.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Morrisville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 83%, China 17%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), August 2024
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: immorna

Immorna is a biotechnology company based in Morrisville, North Carolina, founded in 2019. The company focuses on RNA-based therapeutics and vaccines, providing contract development and manufacturing services tailored to the needs of pharmaceutical and research organizations. Immorna has developed a comprehensive platform for RNA synthesis, purification, and analytical testing, which supports both clinical trials and commercial applications. Their innovative approach includes the use of self-replicating and circular RNA technologies, enhancing the delivery and efficacy of their therapeutic candidates. Immorna has a growing pipeline that targets various medical areas, including cancer immunotherapy and infectious diseases. The company has received FDA IND clearance for several of its drug candidates, indicating progress in their clinical development efforts. With a strong intellectual property portfolio and a commitment to advancing RNA technology, Immorna is positioned as a significant player in the biopharmaceutical industry.

8. Parexel

• Website: parexel.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 34%, United States (USA) 17%, Romania 5%, Other 44%
• Latest funding: $8.5B, July 2021
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: parexel

Parexel International, founded in 1983 and based in Durham, North Carolina, is a clinical research organization that specializes in biopharmaceutical services. With over 20,000 employees globally, Parexel provides a comprehensive range of services that include conducting clinical trials and offering regulatory consulting. Their expertise spans all phases of clinical development, from early-stage trials to strategies for market access. Parexel collaborates with biopharmaceutical companies to streamline the drug approval process, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Their operations are supported by a strong presence in various countries, including significant employee distribution in India, the United States, and Europe. In July 2021, Parexel secured substantial funding, reflecting investor confidence in their capabilities and growth potential within the biopharmaceutical sector.

9. Inhalon Biopharma

• Website: inhalon.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $2.0M, November 2022
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: inhalon-biopharma

Inhalon Biopharma, founded in 2018 and based in Durham, North Carolina, is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing inhaled antibody treatments for acute respiratory infections. The company is at the forefront of creating solutions for conditions such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and SARS-CoV-2. Inhalon's unique platform utilizes muco-trapping antibodies, which are designed to be inhaled, allowing for direct delivery to the lungs. This method aims to provide rapid relief from symptoms and facilitate at-home treatment options. Inhalon has received significant funding, including a $7 million grant from the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command to study their inhaled therapies for COVID-19. Their ongoing clinical trials and collaborations with research institutions underscore their active role in the biopharmaceutical industry, focusing on addressing critical health challenges.

10. Inceptor Bio

• Website: inceptor.bio
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Morrisville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series A, $21.0M, February 2025
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: inceptor-bio

Inceptor Bio, based in Morrisville, North Carolina, is a biotechnology company founded in 2020 that specializes in advanced cell therapies aimed at treating solid tumors. The company is dedicated to developing innovative solutions, including their OUTLAST™ CAR T platform and CAR-M therapies, which are designed to overcome the challenges associated with solid tumor cancers. Inceptor Bio's primary customers include healthcare providers and research institutions seeking effective cancer therapies. The company has recently secured $21 million in Series A funding, which underscores its potential in the biopharmaceutical industry. With a team of experienced professionals and a clear focus on oncology, Inceptor Bio is actively working to deliver therapies that could significantly impact cancer treatment.

11. Locus Biosciences, Inc.

• Website: locus-bio.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Morrisville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series B, $35.0M, May 2022
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: locus-biosciences-inc.

Locus Biosciences, Inc., founded in 2015 and based in Morrisville, North Carolina, is a biotechnology firm dedicated to developing engineered bacteriophage therapies. These therapies target bacterial infections and immunologic diseases, particularly focusing on antibiotic-resistant strains. The company utilizes a sophisticated technology platform that combines synthetic biology with artificial intelligence to create precision medicines. Locus is actively engaged in clinical trials, including their LBP-EC01 product aimed at treating urinary tract infections caused by multidrug-resistant E. coli. They have received significant funding, including a recent $35 million investment from BARDA, to support their clinical development efforts. Locus collaborates with various stakeholders, including healthcare providers and government agencies, to advance their innovative therapeutic programs.

12. Hatteras Venture Partners

• Website: hatterasvp.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hatteras-venture-partners

Hatteras Venture Partners, based in Durham, North Carolina, is a private venture capital firm founded in 2000. The firm specializes in healthcare innovation, focusing on early-stage investments in companies that are developing transformative therapies and medical technologies. Hatteras aims to build companies that improve patient outcomes and enhance the healthcare experience. Their portfolio features a range of companies, including those working on gene therapies, medical devices, and advanced diagnostics. Hatteras employs a risk-mitigated investment strategy, leveraging over two decades of experience to support the growth of its portfolio companies. Their commitment to healthcare innovation positions them as a key player in the biopharmaceutical sector, fostering advancements that can lead to significant improvements in patient care.

13. Kowa Research Institute, Inc.

• Website: kowaus.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Morrisville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Vietnam 4%
• Latest funding: August 2008
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: kowa-research-institute-inc.

Kowa Research Institute, Inc., based in Morrisville, North Carolina, is a pharmaceutical company dedicated to the clinical development of new drugs. Established in 1997, it operates as a division of Kowa Co., Ltd., a prominent privately held company in Japan. Kowa Research Institute specializes in innovative solutions targeting lifestyle-related diseases, immunity, and inflammation. The company collaborates with various healthcare organizations and research institutions to advance drug development through rigorous clinical trials and research initiatives. With a workforce of around 54 employees, Kowa Research Institute has expanded its operations to include a strategic headquarters in Boston, Massachusetts, which oversees global clinical development activities. Their research pipeline includes a range of drug candidates currently in various phases of clinical development, reflecting their commitment to addressing significant health challenges.

14. AreteiaTx

• Website: areteiatx.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series A, $75.0M, February 2024
• Founded year: 2022
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: areteiatx

Areteia Therapeutics, based in Durham, North Carolina, is a biotechnology firm founded in 2022. The company is dedicated to developing dexpramipexole, an oral medication aimed at treating eosinophilic asthma, a severe form of asthma that is often difficult to manage. AreteiaTx is focused on providing effective alternatives to existing therapies, particularly for patients who struggle with severe asthma. The company is currently in the Phase 3 development stage, actively enrolling patients in global clinical trials to validate the safety and efficacy of dexpramipexole. In February 2024, AreteiaTx secured $75 million in Series A funding, which underscores investor confidence in their mission and potential impact in the biopharmaceutical sector.

15. KBI Biopharma

• Website: kbibiopharma.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 88%, Switzerland 12%
• Latest funding: December 2016
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: kbi-biopharma

KBI Biopharma, founded in 1996 and based in Durham, North Carolina, is a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) that provides a wide range of services to the biopharmaceutical industry. The company specializes in cell line development, process development, analytical development, and both clinical and commercial manufacturing. KBI Biopharma serves pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, assisting them in navigating the complexities of drug development while ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory standards. With a workforce of over 1,600 employees and facilities in the United States and Switzerland, KBI Biopharma is well-equipped to support the development and manufacturing of biologics. Their proprietary technologies, such as the SUREtechnology Platform™ and PUREplatform™, enhance their capabilities in producing high-quality biopharmaceuticals. KBI Biopharma's focus on innovation and quality positions them as a valuable partner in the biopharmaceutical sector.

16. Kriya Therapeutics, Inc.

• Website: kriyatx.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Morrisville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: kriyatherapeutics

Kriya Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology firm based in Morrisville, North Carolina, specializing in the development of innovative gene therapies. Founded in 2019, the company is dedicated to addressing various medical conditions that affect millions globally, including diabetes, neurological disorders, and eye diseases. Kriya's product pipeline features several promising candidates, such as KRIYA-839 for diabetes and KRIYA-825 for geographic atrophy, which aim to provide long-lasting treatment solutions. The company operates through rigorous research and development efforts, focusing on validated biological pathways to deliver transformative benefits to patients. Kriya Therapeutics is backed by a team of experienced drug developers and is committed to making gene therapies accessible to a broader population, reflecting their mission to redefine gene therapy for all in need.

17. Lindy Biosciences, Inc.

• Website: lindybio.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series B, $3.2M, March 2022
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: lindy-biosciences

Lindy Biosciences, Inc., founded in 2017 and based in Durham, North Carolina, is a biotechnology firm dedicated to advancing drug delivery methods. The company specializes in Microglassification technology, which allows for the formulation of highly concentrated suspensions of biologics. This innovation enables patients to self-administer medications at home, significantly improving their comfort and adherence to treatment regimens. Lindy serves both patients and pharmaceutical companies, providing solutions that enhance the delivery of biotherapeutics. The company has recently raised $3.2 million in Series B funding, which underscores its commitment to growth and innovation in the biopharmaceutical space. Lindy is actively seeking partnerships with industry players to further develop its technology and expand its impact in the market.

18. xilis

• Website: xilis.net
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 81%, Netherlands 17%, Germany 3%
• Latest funding: Series A, $19.0M, July 2022
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: xilis

Xilis is a biotechnology firm based in Durham, North Carolina, founded in 2019. The company specializes in precision oncology and drug development, focusing on improving patient outcomes through personalized cancer therapies. Xilis has developed the MicroOrganoSphere (MOS) technology, which creates microscale tumor models that retain the characteristics of individual patients' tumors. This technology allows for rapid diagnostics and personalized treatment options, enabling oncologists to make informed decisions. Xilis also collaborates with pharmaceutical partners to accelerate drug discovery and development. In July 2022, the company raised $19 million in a Series A funding round, reflecting strong investor interest in their innovative approach to cancer care. Their work primarily targets colorectal and breast cancers, with ongoing clinical trials to assess the effectiveness of their platforms.

19. Ten63 Therapeutics

• Website: ten63tx.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series A, December 2024
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: gavilan-biodesign

Ten63 Therapeutics, founded in 2018 and based in Durham, North Carolina, is a biotechnology firm dedicated to advancing drug discovery and development. The company specializes in oncology, leveraging its proprietary BEYOND platform to design therapeutics that target previously undruggable biological challenges. By employing advanced computational techniques and artificial intelligence, Ten63 aims to improve patient outcomes through innovative drug solutions. Their platform allows for the exploration of vast chemical spaces at unprecedented speeds, evaluating millions of compounds per second. Recently, Ten63 announced a multi-target drug discovery collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, showcasing their active role in the biopharmaceutical industry. With a team of experienced scientists and industry leaders, Ten63 is committed to addressing significant medical needs through its innovative pipeline.

20. NovaQuest Capital Management

• Website: novaquest.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: novaquest-capital-management-l.l.c.

NovaQuest Capital Management, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, is an investment firm that focuses on life sciences, particularly in biopharmaceuticals and animal health. Founded in 2010, the firm has raised over $2.5 billion across various funds, providing tailored capital solutions to support the late-stage development of innovative healthcare products. NovaQuest is dedicated to addressing unmet medical needs and improving the quality of life through its investments. The firm has a notable track record of financing significant projects in the biopharmaceutical industry, including partnerships with companies like FibroGen and Hansa Biopharma, which are engaged in developing advanced therapeutics. Their approach not only emphasizes financial support but also aims to enhance the overall healthcare landscape by promoting the development of life-saving drugs and technologies.

Biopharmaceuticals Insights: Key Companies in North Carolina

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