The University of Washington, Bothell announced the creation of the Biotechnology and Biomedical Technology Institute (BBTI).

The BBTI is a resource for individuals and organizations in the region and state with an interest in the development of the biotechnology and medical device industries. It seeks to engage government and business leaders, and the citizens of Washington state, in an ongoing conversation about the future of these technologies, their implications for society and their role in the local, state, national and global economies. To that effect, it will:

• Provide a range of information, educational opportunities and research

• Serve as a forum for scholars, business and government leaders, students and citizens to meet, exchange information and learn from each other

• Seek to promote UW-Bothell’s unique position to play a leadership role in this industry for years to come.

Says BBTI Executive Director Dr. Michael Stiber, “After years of planning this venture, we are pleased by the formalization of BBTI and are gratified by this show of confidence by the UW-Bothell administration and faculty. We anticipate a great partnership with our local government and area life sciences industries.”

While awaiting formal institute approval, the BBTI took a leadership role in partnering with the city of Bothell and local businesses to develop a Bothell Biomedical Manufacturing Corridor that went on to receive official designation as an Innovation Partnership Zone (IPZ) by the Washington Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development in October 2007.

BBTI intends to build off of this success and create additional alliances within the biotechnology and biomedical technology fields, resulting in research opportunities, instruction and community outreach.