Biosciences & 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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176 Number of Companies |
3,237 Number of Jobs |
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$104,066 Average Wages |
$1.2 Billion Contribution to Production Activity |
Central Virginia Advantages
- 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. - The proposed $300 million, 350,000 square foot Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology at UVA’s Fontaine Research Park will provide critical laboratory space, expanded research facilities, and space for researchers and biotechnology partners. The cutting edge facility will accelerate development of revolutionary cellular, gene therapies; nanotechnology; and targeted drug delivery.
- The newly launched Commonwealth Bio Accelerator, located in North Fork UVA Discovery Park and operated by CvilleBioHub, will attract, build, and prepare promising life sciences companies for the commercialization of innovations in therapeutics, medical devices, tools, and digital health aids to address unmet needs in large markets.
- 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.
Afton Scientific, which recently announced a major expansion, manufactures sterile injectable pharmaceuticals, specializing in small-batch commercial products and clinical trials.
Contraline is developing the world’s first implant designed to provide men with long-lasting contraception; like an IUD for men.