Biotechnology and Biomedical Sciences

Biotechnology refers to applications of technologies that manipulate genes or protein molecules to shift biological functions. In Maine, our strengths lie in the biomedical field, specifically in genetics and genomics, and antibodies/diagnostics-related knowledge. There is also a distinct sub-cluster in medical devices linked to diagnostics and an emerging pharmaceuticals capability.

We also have emerging expertise in "industrial" biotechnology such as work on biofuels from wood (cellulosic ethanol, for instance) and bio-based plastics from potatoes. In this way, the biotechnology field overlaps with our Forestry and Agriculture sector. Another linkage is with "blue" biotechnology through our ocean science research groups. (See Aquaculture and Marine Sciences.)

An emerging area of expertise is in bioinformatics - information technology products and services related to the analysis required for genetic research.

Research Institutions and Centers

Trade Associations