Biosciences and Medical Devices
The University of Virginia is increasingly focused on supporting enterprising faculty and innovative entrepreneurs as they discover, invest, and develop new life science technologies. The upshot is a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem that attracts the best and the brightest and offers opportunities for companies seeking access to expert faculty and advanced research technology.
ZielBio, Albemarle County
Fast Facts
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190 Number of Companies |
3,012 Number of Jobs |
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$101,153 Average Wages |
$500 Million GDP |
Central Virginia Advantages
- With 1.3 million square feet of lab and research space, the University of Virginia (UVA) produces innovative research discoveries with the potential to address critical issues in medicine and life sciences and offers access to world class faculty experts.
- Greater Charlottesville has the highest concentration of life sciences organizations in Virginia and is home to more than 75 companies. Industry leaders have come together to form a collaborative regional community – CvilleBioHub.
- Several life sciences companies, such as AgroSpheres and InBio, launched due to entrepreneurial support services at UVA.
- Two research parks support UVA’s academic and research activities and foster relationships with commercial and industrial interests. North Fork – A UVA Discovery Park, a 562-acre, fully master planned, mixed-use development, is located less than one mile from the Charlottesville Albemarle Airport. The Fontaine
Research Park, a 54-acre, master planned development, is adjacent to the University’s central grounds.
Demonstrated Record of Success
The Focused Ultrasound Foundation is a nonprofit foundation working to provide patients with a non-invasive, life-changing treatment option in the shortest time possible.
Using enzymatic technology, Bonumose produces affordable, delicious, and healthy sweetener tagatose from commonly plant-derived ingredients. Tagatose does not spike blood sugar levels, cause tooth decay, and it contains prebiotics.
BIO-CAT, the largest custom blender of enzymes in the nation, expanded in Louisa County in conjunction with the company’s 25th year in business.
MicroAire designs, manufactures and distributes highly specialized orthopedic surgical instruments to a global marketplace, all from its facility in Central Virginia.
InBio, an immunodiagnostics company specializing in allergy, asthma, and indoor air quality, began as a University of Virginia startup and has expanded to the UK with sales across the globe.
Another University of Virginia start-up, AgroSpheres has created targeted, non-toxic pest control that is safe for humans and for the environment.
Operating a cGMP manufacturing facility, Afton Scientific offers aseptic filling and terminal sterilization services for liquids and container-closures.
Contraline is developing the world’s first implant designed to provide men with long-lasting contraception; like an IUD for men.