UNT Health and BioLabs partner to advance life sciences innovation across North Texas
UNT Health Fort Worth's Division of Research and Innovation and BioLabs at Pegasus
Park have established a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening connections between
academic research, industry innovation and entrepreneurship across North Texas.
The collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding, creates a framework for UNT Health's Division of Research and Innovation, through the Health Research and Innovation Center, and BioLabs to work together in advancing life sciences innovation, supporting startup growth, expanding workforce development opportunities and accelerating the translation of research discoveries into real-world solutions.
As North Texas continues to emerge as a growing hub for biotechnology and life sciences innovation, the partnership will help connect BioLabs member companies and industry partners with UNT Health's research expertise, specialized core facilities and innovation resources. The organizations will also explore opportunities to collaborate on educational programming, networking events, innovation showcases, workforce development initiatives and research partnerships.
"This partnership represents an important step in expanding UNT Health's innovation ecosystem and strengthening connections between academia and industry," said Dimitrios Karamichos, PhD, FARVO, vice president for research and graduate studies. "By building relationships with emerging companies and entrepreneurs, we can create new opportunities for research collaboration, accelerate innovation and further support the development of the next generation of scientists and innovators."
Planned areas of collaboration include:
- Research and commercialization opportunities
- Industry partnerships and startup engagement
- Educational and networking events
- Workforce development and internship pathways
- Joint innovation and grant initiatives
Through the agreement, BioLabs will help promote UNT Health's research, clinical and core facility capabilities to its network of startup companies and external partners while facilitating introductions and connection opportunities. Through HRIC, UNT Health will provide pathways for companies seeking specialized research services, scientific expertise and collaborative opportunities.
"Strong life sciences ecosystems are built through collaboration and access to exceptional resources," said Gabby Everett, PhD, regional director, BioLabs South-West, and site head, BioLabs Pegasus Park. "By connecting UNT Health's research expertise with the innovative companies within the BioLabs community, this partnership creates new opportunities to advance discovery, innovation and commercialization. We are excited about the possibilities this collaboration brings for the North Texas life sciences ecosystem."
The partnership aligns with UNT Health's commitment to advancing research, fostering innovation and creating meaningful collaborations that improve health outcomes and economic opportunity throughout the region. Future activities may include industry-academic partnerships, workforce development programs, translational research initiatives and other opportunities that support the continued growth of the North Texas life sciences community.