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Utah possesses a burgeoning biotechnology and life sciences industry, and boasts particular strength in medical devices. The first human artificial heart was developed here. Utah attracts over $400 million per year in research grants, and there are nearly 15,000 life sciences employees. In addition to these assets, Utah provides a unique resource of human genome information, due in part to its extensive genealogical records. The low costs of living and doing business bolster the appeal for locating industries and workers in the Beehive State.
The University of Utah (U of U) contributes greatly to the Beehive State’s life sciences industries. Named one of 50 Research Universities by the Carnegie Foundation, the U of U in Salt Lake City is affiliated with several collaborative life science institutions. Among these, the Eccles Institute of Human Genetics is comprised of numerous programs, including the interdisciplinary Program in Human Molecular Biology and Genetics (HMBG), outreach education in the Genetic Science Learning Center, and a tremendous resource for gene modeling, the Utah Genome Depot. Additionally, the Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI) offers genetic and molecular research, research clinics and clinical trials for patients, and the Utah Population Database (UPDB), which contains nearly 9 million records for use only in biomedical research.
Utah State University (USU), in Logan, also provides resources to the life sciences community. The Technology Commercialization Office at USU provides technology transfer services for technologies developed on its campus by its faculty and staff. The Center for Integrated Biosystems offers advanced equipment, laboratories, and biotechnology training for scientists in industry, academia, and national laboratories.
Several organizations aid the life science industry in Utah. Among these, the Utah Science, Technology, and Research (USTAR) Initiative seeks investments for recruiting prestigious research teams in order to create innovative industries. The Utah Technology Council is a privately funded trade association blending information technology and life sciences, and works as a networking resource for raising capital for businesses.
Utah’s life science industry flourishes in the private sector. Among the many companies located in the Beehive State are Cephalon in Salt Lake City; Myriad, also in Salt Lake City; Affiliated Genetics; Cognetix; Advanced Clinical Research (ACR); and Albion Advanced Nutrition in Clearfield.
With such an array of resources, Utah promises a bright future in the biotechnology and life sciences industries.
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