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Life Sciences / Biotechnology Sector Development

The life sciences industry in Newfoundland and Labrador is comprised of the cluster of companies, researchers, educational institutions, industry associations and government agencies working together to develop internationally recognized, world-class research and commercial products and services. The sector involves a broad spectrum of private sector firms and research institutions that develop scientific applications to enhance business opportunities in health sciences, environment, agriculture, forestry, mining, information technology, aquaculture and other ocean-related industries. These companies and R&D centers have a particular focus on:

  • Marine biotechnology
  • Human genetics
  • Genomics
  • Medicine
  • Clinical trials
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Bio-pharmaceuticals
  • Veterinary vaccine applications
  • Aquaculture
  • Nutraceuticals
  • Natural health products
  • Bio-informatics

The industry has special expertise in two key areas:

  • Marine biotechnology
  • Human genomics

R&D projects tend to focus on natural resources in relation to fisheries, aquaculture, and marine organisms in cold ocean environments. The origins and settlement patterns of the province’s population, the so-called founder population, provide opportunities for world-class studies in human genetics. Innovative research breakthroughs range from enhanced fish growth to vaccine delivery systems.

The Department works closely with the Newfoundland Association of Technology Industries, the provincial industry association for the Advanced Technologies, and the Atlantic Canada Bio-Industries Association.

To Find Out More

Kirk Youden

Industry Development Officer
Innovation, Research and Technology Division
Tel: (709) 729-0695
Fax: (709) 729-5124

Or

For information and assistance, contact the IBRD office nearest you.

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