November 3, 2025

On Monday, October 27, the Museum of Life and Science and the North Carolina Biotechnology Center teamed up to host a Biotech Charrette, or meeting of the minds.

More than 40 experts from local and national biotech companies, as well as research industries and universities, met with Museum staff to discuss and brainstorm ideas for an upcoming biotech exhibit and corresponding educational programming.

Participants kicked off the day with breakfast in the Magic Wings Butterfly House, which included a welcome address from North Carolina State Senator Mike Woodard.

Fueled for the morning, attendees then made their way to the Museum’s main building for a tour of the newly redesigned spaces and ongoing projects on the second floor. We can’t share too much about that yet but just know it’s going to be really cool!

Here, we’re serious about play, so a hands-on lab activity led by Peregrine, the Museum’s Associate Program Manager for Humanities and Life Sciences, was next.

“The goal of the experiment was to explore how researchers are using electrochemical signals that naturally occur in the body as ‘messengers’ to turn certain cells’ genes on or off,” Peregrine said.

The visiting scientists created instant rust, generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) through electrolysis, and then reflected on what they would want to “tell a cell” through electrochemical signals.

Afterward, they painted their ideas on watercolor paper using the chemical-reaction rust as the medium. Here’s a look at some of their thoughts!

Following a well-deserved snack break and informative presentation from the Museum exhibits development team, the participants broke out into respectful, guided discussions ranging from the personal to professional, and the experts shared their passions and inspirations, and perspectives on industrial and environmental trends.

“I was inspired by the opportunity to hear directly from scientists tackling global challenges,” Museum Director of Development Trish Lemm said. “Like how to feed a growing population and understand the broader implications of biotechnology on our society and environment. The event also provided us with a valuable chance to connect with industry leaders and researchers in our area, exploring ideas for partnership — not only in the development of the exhibit, but in building ongoing collaborations after it opens.”

They then came back together for more guided conversation and ideation led by Museum facilitators, rounding out the day and leaving the door open for future allyship.

“The Museum is incredibly proud to have brought members of our community together in partnership for this Biotech Charrette,” Museum VP for Education and Engagement Carly Apple said. “We had an incredible exchange of ideas. Together, we explored emerging trends shaping biomaterials, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural technologies, and brainstormed ways to share those stories through our exhibits and programming. It was inspiring to see so much energy and collaboration focused on creating high-quality learning opportunities for future generations of scientists.”

Thank you to all the organizations and individuals who participated!

North Carolina Biotechnology Center
NC State University
Durham Technical Community College
Duke University Nicholas School for the Env.
North Carolina Life Sciences
TerraSafe Materials
Pinpoint Pivot Consulting
Hatteras Venture Partners
BioNetwork
Cotton Incorporated
KBI Biopharma
NC PSI
Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center
Duke University
Biogen CoLab
Wake Forest Inst for Regen Med
SAS and NCA&T
Syngenta Seeds R&D
NC Cooperative Extension
Iluma Alliance
Made In Durham
Syngenta
NC Department of Commerce OSTI
Zannoni & Associates
Pairwise
Novonesis
Eli Lilly
Avalyn Pharma