Biotechnology in Iowa

Iowa has a long tradition in the life sciences. From George Washington Carver's and Henry Wallace's work with crop genetics to the extensive work in biocatalysis and bioprocessing that currently takes place everyday, the application of modern science is represented broadly across the state of Iowa.

Today, more than 200 companies, such as Garst Seed, Monsanto, Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Wacker Biochem Corp. and others, involved with some aspect of life sciences are doing business from Iowa locations. Nationally, Iowa has the 15th largest concentration of biotechnology companies in the nation, and is a hotbed of new investments. The New England Journal of Medicine ranks Iowa in the top five most productive states in terms of biomedical research publications. And in annual surveys of the best U.S. hospitals, U.S. News & World Report ranks the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics among the top 10 in the country in several specialty areas.

Henry A. Wallace, heavily influenced by his father's friend George Washington Carver, taught agricultural science classes at Iowa State University following his graduation from ISU. In 1895, he joined is father and brother in acquiring the periodical Farm and Dairy, which they renamed Wallaces' Farm and Dairy and later Wallaces' Farmer. It became one of the leading farm journals in the U.S.

In the early 1900's Henry A. Wallace, believed the potential for increased corn yields was through hybridization (the inbreeding and crossing of different germplasm to produce a healthier and durable stock). Wallace's inquiring scientific mind challenged existing theories about seed potential. In 1926, he and a small group of businessmen formed the first company (Hi-Bred Corn Company) to produce and commercialize hybrid seed, thereby giving farmers access to improved genetics. Viewed then with a wide array of skepticism, this form of plant breeding for desired traits and characteristics has become the benchmark for production agriculture.

Historically, Iowa has led the nation in the production of corn and hogs, while ranking very high in soybeans, cattle and diary. This rich heritage in crop and livestock agriculture provides a vital raw material for biotechnology use in maximizing yield and quality while minimizing production costs and environmental pollution.

Using raw materials such as glucose, liquefied starch, soybean oil distillate, bovine and horse serums, livestock hormones, feed, soy meal, grain by-products, animal tissue, swine and bovine plasma, pork tissue, bone meal, and whey, Iowa biotechnology companies produce a wide variety of value-added products. Crucial advances in pre-1970 biotechnology with today's genetic and applied molecular biology (post-1970 biotechnology) are revolutionizing the uses of living systems for creative and productive applications.

At Iowa’s three state universities -- Iowa State University, University of Iowa, and University of Northern Iowa -- more than 20,000 students are enrolled in biotechnology-related disciplines. Externally sponsored research to these institutions has risen significantly, including corporate sponsored applied research. Importantly, ISU and UI offer research incubator facilities to assist in bridging university-derived research into commercial applications. Companies like BioForce Laboratories and Advanced Analytical Technologies at ISU and Quorum Sciences, UroSurge, Integrated DNA Technologies, Caviforce/Solltech and Bio-Research Products at UI are positive examples to build upon.

Importantly, ISU’s College of Veterinary Medicine is a cornerstone of one of the world's largest concentrations of animal health professionals (with the USDA's National Animal Disease Center and the National Veterinary Services Laboratories).

In addition, Iowa's community colleges such as Kirkwood Community College's Hazardous Waste & Safety training, Indian Hills Community College's BioDevelopment unit, and Des Moines Area Community College's laboratory technician program are vital contributors to the Iowa biotechnology industry.

The State of Iowa historically has been very supportive of long-term initiatives in the life sciences. State support was critical in the development of the Center for Biocatalysis & Bioprocessing (CBB) at the University of Iowa and the Office of Biotechnology and Plant Science Institute at Iowa State University. Over the last several years, the CBB has evolved into a model for successful university-industry partnerships, as evidenced by its relationships with firms such as EnzyMed and Quorum Sciences. At Iowa State, the Plant Science Institute has a goal to partner with private companies and individuals for a $100 million investment over the next 10 years.

As we enter the 21st century, Iowa is well positioned to be a leading biotechnology center leader well into the next century, nationally, as well as globally.

Related Resources

• Biotechnology Promise
• Iowa Success Stories
• Iowa Support