Research Opportunities
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The Greenwood Genetic Center
The Greenwood Genetic Center is a nonprofit institute, organized to provide clinical genetic services and laboratory testing, to develop educational programs and materials, and to conduct research in the field of medical genetics.
Annually, more than 20,000 families from throughout South Carolina and the Southeast receive clinical, laboratory diagnostic and counseling services through the Center’s clinical and laboratory operations.
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| Greenwood County Biopark Campus |
The Greenwood Genetic Center works closely with the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs to provide diagnostic services, treatment and prevention programs to reduce the risk and severity of disabling conditions. The Greenwood Genetic Center is determined to break new ground in clinical service, laboratory and diagnostic testing, educational programs and research and we intend to lead the way into the 21st century with hope for every family at risk of genetic disease.
J.C. Self Institute of Human Genetics
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| The J.C. Self Institute of Human Genetics is taking a leading role in genetic research in South Carolina. |
Opening in 1996, the J.C. Self Research Institute of Human Genetics is a state and national resource where scientists seek a greater understanding of the causes, treatment and prevention of birth defects and mental retardation. The Institute is taking a leading role in genetic research in South Carolina. Whether mapping part of the vast unknown areas of the human genome, studying the effects of a single gene gone awry, or putting into practice a strategy for families to avoid hereditary disease, scientists at the Institute hope their work will bring the next generation closer to the goal of having all babies born healthy and free of physical and mental disabilities.
Research at the Institute is divided into two major centers: the Center for Molecular Studies and the Center for Anatomic Studies.
Molecular Studies: Charles E. Schwartz, Ph.D., heads the active research programs of the Center for Molecular Studies. The primary focus of the Center’s research is gaining a greater understanding of mental retardation, discovering new mechanisms which contribute to genetic disease, and developing new strategies for prevention. Current research in the Center for Molecular Studies focuses on X-linked mental retardation, autosomal loci for mental retardation, autism, split hand and split foot malformation, and neural tube defects.
Anatomic Studies: Headed by Robert R. Lebel, M.D., the Center for Anatomic Studies devotes its resources toward understanding the mechanisms by which birth defects occur and how they may be prevented. Investigations focus on the processes of embryonic and fetal growth and on the contribution of faulty blood vessels to birth defects.
SC Biotechnology Incubation Facility
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| SC Biotechnology Incubation Facility |
In 1999, the Partnership Alliance and legislative delegation were instrumental in securing a $3.5-million grant from the SC General Assembly to establish the South Carolina Biotechnology Incubation Facility, a 22,000-square-foot west wing addition to the J.C. Self Research Institute of Human Genetics. About 8,000 square feet of the facility is used for laboratory modules and related office space, available for defined periods of time to promising projects and companies. The building also includes a library, conference facility, and space for central services and other support activities. Economically viable projects are encouraged to grow into separate operations in the surrounding Biotechnology Park.
The Greenwood Genetic Center provides administrative support and consultation for the incubation facility through the Division of Technology Advancement, which was established in 2000. The South Carolina Biotechnology Incubation Program operates under the supervision of a board of directors, with funds for the incubation facility coming from state appropriations.
Research collaboration and partnerships with prestigious schools like, Clemson University, the University of South Carolina and the Medical University of South Carolina, is a key component to the success of the South Carolina Biotechnology Incubation Program.
SC Biotechnology Incubation Program
One Gregor Mendel Circle
Greenwood, SC 29646
Phone: 864.953.3981
Fax: 864.953.3984
