Life Sciences

Utah's Life Sciences Industry continues to prosper in the state. Utah is home to over 4,300 life science and information technology companies. These companies provide roughly 63,000 high-paying, high-quality jobs in the state and generate an estimate $3.4 billion in annual wages. According the the Utah Dept. of Workforce Services, in 2006, Utah life science companies accounted for roughly 26,800 jobs with an average monthly salary of $4,213.

University of Utah's Professor, Mario Capecchi won the Nobel Prize for his work in molecular genetics in October 2007. Capecchi's development of gene targeting in mouse embryo-derived stem cells allows investigators to create mice with mutations in any desired gene and gives them virtually complete freedom to manipulate the DNA sequences in the genome of living mice. This technology makes possible detailed evaluation of the function of every mouse gene at any stage of development or in the adult. The technology not only has made possible the production of animal models for human disease, but it also is providing Capecchi and other researchers with insights into understanding fundamental biological questions, including development of the brain in the embryo or its function in the adult.

Several other iniatiatives have created an even stronger life science industry in Utah. The Utah Population Database, coupled with the state's extension genealogical records, is teh world's most comprehensive database. This project has alread led to the discovery of more human genes than anywhere else in the world including genes that cause breast, prostate and colon cancer, melanoma, cystic fibrosis, Huntington disease and others.

USTAR, Utah Science, Technology and Research Initiative, was recently formed to combine public and private investment to strengthen research and accelerate privatization of research currently ongoing at Utah's 3 major research universities. The Utah State Legislature has allocated a $50 million one-time investment and a abonding authority for $100 million, plus $15 million as an ongoing allocation. The funds will be used to build state of the art research facilities at Utah State University and University of Utah; to recruit top national science teams; and to open 5 Innovation Centers throughout the state.

Major Bioscience firms located in Salt Lake County include:

• Huntsman Cancer Institute
• BD Medical Systems:
• Myriad Genetics:
• GE/OEC Medical Systems, Inc.
• Merit Medical Systems, Inc.

For more information on this thriving industry, contact the following:

Utah Technology Council

Mr. Richard Nelson, President & CEO
2855 E. Cottonwood Parkway, Suite 110
Salt Lake City, Utah 84121
(801) 568-3500
Website

The Economic Development Corporation of Utah
Mr. Jeff Edwards, President & CEO

201 South Main Street, Suite 2150
Salt Lake City, Utah 84111
(801) 328-8824
Website

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Gary Harter, Cluster Director
324 So. State Street #500
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
801-538-8784
Website