Life sciences is one of Georgia’s fastest-growing sectors, with nearly 4,000 allied companies driving job creation, economic development, and scientific breakthroughs. 

At the forefront is Georgia Life Sciences, the leading advocate for the state’s dynamic and diverse life sciences sector, promoting policy development, community programs, industry initiatives, and events, as well as the research and products of its associated member and partner organizations.

In January 2025, the association, formerly known as Georgia Bio, officially rebranded as Georgia Life Sciences (GLS), a key milestone that propelled the sector’s collective efforts to expand and grow a strong healthcare and life science cluster in our state and to better reflect the organization's  commitment to advancing innovation across biotechnology, medical technology, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare.

Central to GLS’s mission is preparing the next generation of STEM leaders. Through initiatives like the Emerging Leaders Network, a professional development and mentorship program for early-career scientists and innovators that spans across Georgia’s research universities, and the Biotech Teacher Training Initiative, that provides immersive science-related professional development for Georgia teachers, GLS is nurturing the talent needed to sustain and grow Georgia’s life sciences ecosystem.  

The GLS focus on supporting future leaders aligns closely with ARCS Foundation Atlanta’s mission to advance science by funding academically outstanding STEM scholars.

“This rebrand brought us a renewed focus on the core strengths of our members and driving solutions together, all this while supporting the next generation of innovation through business leadership and a passion for the ecosystem that sustains our sector,” said Maria Thacker Goethe, President & CEO of Georgia Life Sciences. “We’re proud to partner with ARCS Atlanta, whose investment in scientific talent and research excellence mirrors our own commitment to building a stronger future.”

Georgia Life Sciences is also part of the Council of State Bioscience Associations (CSBA), a national coalition working to strengthen America’s bioeconomy through advocacy and collaboration.

Learn more: https://www.galifesciences.org/georgia-bio-becomes-georgia-life-sciences- 

Maria Thacker Goethe

President & CEO of Georgia Life Sciences.