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TSRI Plans to Open Major Science Center in Palm Beach County, FloridaThe Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) has announced plans to establish a major science center in Palm Beach County, Florida, focusing on biomedical research, technology development, and drug design. The announcement comes after months of discussions with Florida Governor Jeb Bush and state and local leaders. The facilities and initial staffing for the new center will be supported by Florida state and local government. TSRI will continue to operate and expand its activities and programs at its campus in La Jolla, California. "Based on our history and experience in La Jolla, the extension of Scripps activities will increase the scope and depth of significant research in biomedical science," said TSRI President Richard A. Lerner. "The synergy between Scripps biomedical research in California and Florida is expected to lead to major new developments to improve human health." In an e-mail sent to TSRI employees, Lerner added, " I want to assure you that the quality of our research and staffing, level of funding, facilities, and overall operations [in La Jolla] will not be disrupted or adversely affected in any way by the establishment of a Florida operation... I invite you to join with me in this exciting, challenging new endeavor." The expansion is expected to boost Florida's economic development in biotechnology, just as the Scripps campus in La Jolla has served as the seeding ground and economic stimulus for the burgeoning bioscience industries in Southern California. Approximately 40 companies have grown out of Scripps research and technology developments. Governor Bush said, "Scripps is the brand name in biomedical research and we are honored they have chosen Florida to expand their current research facilities. Already known for breakthroughs for cancer and Alzheimer's disease, this new bi-coastal presence will bring even greater opportunities for life-saving and life-enhancing research." TSRI will also collaborate with and support local industry and businesses, the university system, and school districts in the region, as it has done in San Diego. Beginning in 2004, TSRI expects to occupy temporary laboratory space while it constructs a state-of-the-art, 364,000-square-foot facility on 100 acres to be occupied in 2006. "The Scripps Research Institute is grateful to Governor Bush and the people of Palm Beach County and throughout Florida for this exciting, challenging opportunity to expand our knowledge of biomedical science and to contribute to the improvement of human health," Lerner said.
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