Syfy is giving a 13-episode greenlight to "Helix" (working title), its newest original scripted series for 2013, it was announced by Mark Stern, President of Original Content, Syfy and Co-Head Original Content, Universal Cable Productions. "Helix" is Executive Produced by Ronald D. Moore ("Battlestar Galactica"), Lynda Obst (Sleepless in Seattle, Contact), Steven Maeda ("Lost," "CSI: Miami," "The X-Files") and Cameron Porsandeh, who wrote the pilot, will serve as Co-Executive Producer. The series will be produced by Sony Pictures Television.

"Helix" is an intense thriller about a team of scientists from the Centers for Disease Control who travel to a high-tech research facility in the Arctic to investigate a possible disease outbreak, only to find themselves pulled into a terrifying life-and-death struggle that holds the key to mankind's salvation or total annihilation.

"With its well-drawn characters, taut drama, and incredible production team, we couldn't be more excited to see this intense thrill-ride of a series come to life," said Mark Stern.

"Helix" is expected to begin production early in 2013 to debut later this year.