South Florida offers convenient access to leading research institutes and academic institutions for individual researchers or life science leaders hoping to collaborate with scientists on investigations and trials, or take advantage of nationally recognized universities, professors and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) focused students. In Greater Fort Lauderdale, universities such as Nova Southeastern University, Florida Atlantic University and the Research Park at FAU, University of Florida, Florida International University and others are exploring science and technology in medicine, engineering and more. To the north, the Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, Max Planck Florida Institute, and the FIU Center for Translational Science are pursuing compelling, world-class discoveries.
On a statewide level, BioFlorida is the voice of Florida's life sciences industry with regional chapters that represent nearly 6,700 establishments and research organizations in the biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices/diagnostics and bioagriculture sectors. BioFlorida’s initiatives provide a strong business climate for the advancement of innovative products that improve lives and promote economic benefits to the state. South Florida's academic institutions, research parks and economic development organizations have joined together to form Life Sciences South Florida. Its goal is to provide state, federal and private investment opportunities. The organization also facilitates the sharing of high-tech equipment and guides the development of a skilled biotechnology workforce capable of supporting cutting-edge research and commercial innovation.
Top Reasons Life Sciences Are Big In Florida:
- Florida is home to the nation’s 2nd largest medical device manufacturing industry, 2nd largest pharmaceuticals manufacturing industry and 4th largest biotech R&D industry. (BLS)
- $1.4 billion spent in life science R&D by Florida universities. (National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics)
- Biopharmaceutical sector had $64.3 billion in economic output in 2022. (PhRMA.org)
- #1 in high-tech employment in the Southeast. (CompTIA Cyberstates)