The Texas A&M Institute for Preclinical Studies recently opened. TIPS will train veterinarians, physicians, scientists, technicians and engineers in order to meet the growing needs of the biomedical industry, while accelerating the research, development and commercialization of breakthrough technologies.

"This building and its high-tech mission are proof that Texas is prepared to play a lead role in the development of new ideas, technologies and therapies," Gov. Rick Perry said. "The TIPS institute will fuel our state's economy by facilitating collaboration between public universities and the private sector and providing a forum where great ideas can grow into successful businesses and quality jobs."

Perry has been emphasizing the importance of strengthening Texas' economy by promoting research and education in emerging technology sectors. In July 2007, the Texas Emerging Technology Fund invested $6 million to help recruit world-class biotechnology researchers to TIPS, while the Texas A&M University System invested $40 million and The Research Valley Partnership, Inc. invested $2.5 million.

"I am extremely excited to have our TIPS facility up and running," Dr. Theresa W. Fossum, director and founder of TIPS, said. "The world-class services that we can provide biotechnology companies will advance their initiatives to the next stages of development, and that is unique in one location."

The 112,000-square-foot TIPS facility features sophisticated imaging technology, a large animal hospital, animal housing, surgical laboratories, pre-operation and recovery areas, an interventional catheterization laboratory and incubator space for start-ups.

The facility plans to house research activities from the public and private sectors, such as medical device and combination product safety studies in large animals, pre-clinical studies and biomedical imaging to support pharmaceutical and medical equipment development.