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Obatala Sciences Expands to Charleston With 46 New Jobs

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Obatala Sciences is bringing a $656,000 investment and 46 new jobs to Charleston County as it establishes its first East Coast operation at Blue Sky Labs.

The New Orleans-based biotechnology firm specializes in the development and manufacture of cell culture media, stem cells, biomaterials, and advanced tissue models for preclinical medical research. Operations are already online in Charleston, where the company will focus on product development, translational research, partnership development, and future scale-up activities related to its microphysiological model technologies and human-derived biomaterials.

Strategic Role at Blue Sky Labs

The expansion places Obatala Sciences within the innovation ecosystem of the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). Madisen Shirey, director of strategic projects in the Office of Innovation at Blue Sky Labs, stated that the company’s drug development and tissue engineering work will benefit patients on a local, national, and international scale. Shirey added that the company is a “perfect fit” for Blue Sky Labs due to available space and the potential to collaborate with other firms and MUSC. The company’s focus on regenerative medicine, preclinical drug development, biotechnology and human-derived research models matches the role of Blue Sky Labs in supporting commercial life sciences within the MUSC ecosystem. Shirey noted the move strengthens Blue Sky Labs as a bridge between commercial biotechnology and academic research.

Trivia Frazier, Ph.D., co-founder, president and CEO of Obatala Sciences, said the move allows the company to bring its preclinical models and human-derived research tools to a broader range of partners and researchers. Frazier noted that the partnership creates a “meaningful bridge” between the company’s headquarters in New Orleans and the life sciences community in South Carolina.

Obatala Brings 46 New Jobs to Charleston County

South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster welcomed the expansion, noting the state’s efforts to strengthen its position as a leader in technology and manufacturing. “We are proud to welcome Obatala to South Carolina,” McMaster said, adding that the state is pleased the company is bringing 46 new jobs to Charleston County. Merle Johnson, executive director for Charleston County Economic Development, said the company’s presence provides residents and students more opportunities to build local careers in the life sciences.

Obatala Sciences Expands to Charleston With 46 New Jobs
Photo: live5news.com

Beyond local growth, Frazier stated that the partnership supports a national effort to scale domestic advanced biomanufacturing capacity for high-value biotechnology products. She noted this aligns with “FDA New Approach Methodologies goals” and a commitment to strengthening U.S.-based biotechnology infrastructure. Frazier said the company is excited to work with partners committed to creating economic and scientific impact across the Southeast and advancing human-relevant research.

Regional Partnerships Support Obatala Growth and Biotechnology Training

According to Affsprung, the region’s network of private and public partners creates an environment for Obatala to pursue long-term growth and innovation.

The expansion is expected to provide training opportunities in related fields and biotechnology. Those interested in employment may contact the company at [email protected].

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