The Edison Biotechnology Institute (EBI), established in 1984, is both an interdisciplinary biomedical research institute of Ohio University and an economic development organization dedicated to assisting bioscience companies and entrepreneurs in southeastern Ohio. EBI is one of the nation’s few research entities established in a university setting that includes technology development and commercialization as well as business assistance as part of its mission.
As a research institute, EBI has a dual mission:
- Basic discovery research and development of new technology and
- The transfer of technology to the private sector for economic benefit in Ohio
We seek to understand the molecular/genetic basis of diseases that disproportionately affect the people of Appalachian Ohio and that also are major worldwide challenges. EBI investigators pursue internationally recognized research programs in:
- Growth disorders
- Diabetes and obesity
- Aging
- Infectious diseases
- Cancer
Through our increased understanding of these diseases, our goal is to develop diagnostics and therapeutics for health care.
As an economic development organization, EBI seeks to develop venture-ready companies that will contribute to a growing biosciences cluster in southeastern Ohio and provide jobs for the region’s residents. To accomplish this goal, EBI provides business assistance that includes the development of business plans and funding strategies, access to capital, and advice on corporate strategy and technology commercialization pathways.
Funding Sources
The Edison Biotechnology Institute is supported by the Ohio Department of Development, the Goll-Ohio Eminent Scholar Endowment, Ohio University, federal agencies, foundations, corporate-sponsored research agreements, royalty revenues, and gifts.
If you are interested in giving to support our academic, research, or economic development missions, please contact Ohio University Advancement at 740.593.0217.
Contact Us
Edison Biotechnology Institute
Konneker Research Center
172 Water Tower Drive, Building 25, The Ridges
Ohio University
Athens, Ohio 45701
Phone: 740.593.4713
Fax: 740.593.4795
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