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A major life sciences and innovation project took its next step Oct. 9 in Camden.
A slew of leaders, officials from all levels of government, and key stakeholders were on hand for the groundbreaking of the new Coriell Institute for Medical Research life sciences campus. The milestone marks the start of the next chapter for the renowned Camden-based organization.
As NJBIZ first reported in February, the project includes the NJ Coriell Labs Innovation Center. It represents the state’s 13th Strategic Innovation Center, designated by and in partnership with New Jersey Economic Development Authority.
“We view this project as Coriell 2.0, continuing and expanding on our founder Dr. Lewis Coriell’s commitment to the City of Camden and vision for life sciences research,” said Dr. Jean-Pierre Issa, president and CEO of the Coriell Institute, which was founded in 1953. “The institute has been an anchor institution in Camden and at the forefront of scientific discovery for 72 years.”
‘Groundbreaking discoveries’
The four-story building will serve as the Coriell Institute’s new headquarters, research center and biorepository. It will also house six National Institutes of Health (NIH) biobanks.
The NJ Coriell Labs Innovation Center will occupy the top two floors. It will feature 45,000 square feet of premium incubator space to host biotechnology companies.
The NJEDA is investing $20 million and Coriell Institute $21 million for the project. The site is slated to open in early 2028 and create 100 permanent jobs.
“The launch of our Strategic Innovation Centers program holds tremendous promise to fuel discovery, accelerate breakthroughs, and drive economic growth,” said Gov. Phil Murphy, who was on-hand for the groundbreaking. “With the addition of the NJ Coriell Labs Innovation Center, we are not only expanding New Jersey’s innovation economy – we are setting a new standard.”
Murphy said the center will advance the frontiers of biomedical research and development.
“Unlocking groundbreaking discoveries and technologies that will shape the future of medicine and improve lives for generations to come,” said the governor.
Building an ecosystem
The SIC will provide access to core facilities, a vivarium and corporate suites. It will also offer Coriell’s renowned biobanking and laboratory services. Additionally it will present the opportunity for collaboration with Coriell scientists, the Camden Cancer Research Center, and other leading research and health care institutions in the region.
Officials say it all will result in a one-stop shop to serve a developing biotech company’s infrastructure and needs.
“Through the NJEDA’s Strategic Innovation Center initiative, Camden will become a central hub for advanced biomedical research, driving forward lifesaving advancements in cancer treatment, stem cell technology, epigenetics, and drug discovery,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “By collaborating with Coriell, industry partners, and academic institutions, the NJ Biomedical Strategic Innovation Center will harness the state’s top talent to build the companies of tomorrow, create high-quality jobs, and strengthen New Jersey’s economy.”
Issa added, “Leveraging our standing in the scientific community and expertise in research and biobanking, we expect this project to be the catalyst to building a life sciences ecosystem in the region and making Camden a life sciences research destination.”
Anchor ‘Institute’
Leaders in Camden and South Jersey are excited about the project. And for the Coriell Institute to continue its remarkable work in this next chapter and new facility.
“Camden is a national model of urban revitalization, and this progress is driven by anchor institution like the Coriell Institute,” said Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen. “The Coriell Institute has been in Camden since 1953.”
This will be a tremendous economic boost to our city, South Jersey, the region.
– Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen
Carstarphen expressed his gratitude to Issa for his commitment to not only keep Coriell in Camden, but to also expand the campus.
“The project will create permanent jobs and construction jobs, moreover, it will attract world-class scientists and biopharmaceutical companies,” said Carstarphen. “This will be a tremendous economic boost to our city, South Jersey, the region.”
U.S. Rep Donald Norcross, D-1st District, said that for more than 70 years, Coriell has been a part of Camden’s story.
“The new Coriell Innovation Center will build on its legacy by creating jobs, strengthening our community, and keeping South Jersey on the map as a leader in innovation and life sciences. By hosting companies that specialize in cancer research and developing lifesaving medication, South Jersey is leading the way in medical research.”
A Camden catalyst
Assembly Majority Leader Lou Greenwald, D-6th District, described the Coriell Institute as a source of pride for Camden and South Jersey for decades. He said the institute has attracted investment, created high-quality jobs and driven scientific breakthroughs.
NJ Coriell Labs Innovation Center:
By the numbers
- 45,000 square feet of premium incubator space
- $20M investment from NJEDA
- $21M investment from Coriell Institute
- Will create 100 permanent jobs
“This historic NJEDA partnership will carry that legacy forward, positioning Camden as a hub for world-class life sciences research and a place where young people can see opportunity in their own backyard and be inspired to pursue careers in science, technology, and innovation,” said Greenwald.
Bridget Phifer is CEO of the Parkside Business and Community Partnership. She said that the hub will serve as a catalyst for discovery, employment, entrepreneurship and collaboration — located right in the heart of the Parkside and Gateway communities on Walnut Street between Pine Street and Princess Avenue.
“We are excited to see an even stronger partnership emerge between Coriell and the community, ensuring broad access to the tools, resources, opportunities and benefits that will be generated by this new facility,” said Phifer.
