Workers in life sciences industry *
Metro Atlanta: 10,500
San Diego: 25,290
San Francisco: 49,000
Raleigh-Durham-Charlotte: 21,590
Boston: 32,630
* Note: The Bureau of Labor Statistics' definition for life, physical and social science occupations includes food scientists, biochemists, lab technicians, biologists, agricultural technicians and chemical workers.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2011 Metropolitan Area Estimates
Georgia has devoted time and treasure to build on a foundation for the biotech industry, but the question echoing among the state’s business leaders is whether more jobs will follow.
State officials have tried for decades to make Georgia a national leader in biosciences. Recruiters have landed some coups — notably, the new Baxter International plant near Social Circle — but leaders are considering aggressive and perhaps surprising tactics to speed up the pace.
Traditional efforts include Kennesaw State University's opening on Thursday of a $21 million laboratory geared toward biosciences work.
Then there are the gutsier strategies. The Georgia Research Alliance, a nonprofit that receives public and private funding to boost university-based development, is exploring the idea of recruiting biotech entrepreneurs who would start a company from scratch here.
Subscribers can read our full report on the state’s ongoing effort to lure the industry to Georgia in Wednesday’s AJC or on our subscription tablet app.
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