About

About Life Science Tennessee

Life Science Tennessee is a statewide, nonprofit, member organization whose mission is to advance and grow the life science industry in Tennessee through advocacy, partnerships and alignment with economic and workforce development.

Members include companies, universities, research institutions, government and economic development groups, and other industry associations involved in discovery and application of life sciences products and related services that improve the health and well-being of people throughout the world.

LST conducts business and economic development activities; advocates on behalf of the industry; educates the public about the benefits of life sciences research and product development; and provides a network for the exchange of ideas, information and opportunities.

The Life Science Industry in Tennessee

The life science industry, sometimes referred to as biosciences, is a diverse group of sectors and activities with a common link – they apply knowledge of the way in which plants, animals and humans function. The industry spans different markets and includes manufacturing, services and research activities. The life science industry includes companies in the fields of biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, biomedical technologies, life systems technologies, nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, food processing, environmental biology and biomedical devices. It also includes organizations and institutions that devote the majority of their efforts to various stages of research, development, technology transfer and commercialization. By definition, biosciences are a unique industry cluster and are constantly changing to incorporate the latest research and scientific discoveries.

Broadly defined, the industry includes the following five sectors:

• Agricultural Feedstock and Chemicals – 1,117 employed
• Drugs and Pharmaceuticals – 2,894 employed
• Medical Devices and Equipment – 9,223 employed
• Research, Testing and Medical Laboratories – 16,155 employed
• Bioscience-related Distribution – 18,869 employed