Franklin Biolabs, a contract research organization (CRO) focused on genetic medicines, officially launched in October 2023.

The company's establishment marks the departure of gene therapy expert Jim Wilson, M.D., Ph.D., from the University of Pennsylvania after over 30 years.

Franklin Biolabs was formed from Wilson's gene therapy program at Penn, with many former employees transitioning to this new venture.

In addition to Franklin Biolabs, Wilson also leads GEMMABio, which is dedicated to developing gene therapies for rare diseases.

The organization is named after founding father Benjamin Franklin and will provide services in immunology, vector production, next-generation sequencing, and pharmacology studies.

Franklin Biolabs aims to connect innovative research with the development of transformative therapies for patients with severe conditions.

The CRO plans to conduct research for sponsors globally, indicating an international reach.

Franklin Biolabs is solely funded by Savanne Life Sciences, the investment arm of the Bioculture Group located in Mauritius.

During the company's launch, Wilson expressed gratitude towards Savanne Life Sciences for their support and shared vision for the future of gene therapy.

Wilson is renowned for his work with adeno-associated viruses as vectors in gene therapy, contributing to the emergence of several biotech companies from his lab at Penn.