Life Science
In Oklahoma
Oklahoma is emerging as a growing hub for life sciences, standing out due to a combination of research and innovation at institutions across the state, public and private partnerships, and a federal investment of $35 million to fund the growth of the state’s health science cluster.

Recently recognized as a top five emerging life science hub in the U.S., Oklahoma boasts nearly six hundred bio-related establishments. Researchers here have made numerous groundbreaking discoveries and developed several major drug therapies, which have been acquired by leading pharmaceutical companies such as Novartis, Alexion, Genzyme, Hepalink, and Sanofi.
Life Science Oklahoma is dedicated to supporting the industry through partnership building, education and outreach, networking, policy development and publicity.
Bio Manufacturing
Oklahoma is emerging as a key player in the field of bio-manufacturing, with a growing emphasis on innovation and sustainability. The state offers a strategic location with access to robust transportation infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and a favorable business climate, making it an attractive destination for bio manufacturing.
Agriculture
Research / Tech
Agricultural research in Oklahoma is a vital driver of innovation and economic growth, offering numerous benefits to the world. With its diverse climate and strong agricultural base, Oklahoma is well-positioned for advancements in crop and livestock production, pest management, water conservation, and sustainable farming practices. Research institutions, including Oklahoma State University, play a key role in developing new technologies, improving crop yields, and enhancing livestock genetics. This research supports local farmers and ranchers, helps address food security challenges, and drives economic growth by attracting investments and fostering collaboration with agricultural industries.
Clinical
Research / Trials
Oklahoma’s favorable regulatory environment, access to diverse patient populations, and established research infrastructure make it an attractive location for conducting Phase 1 trials, contributing to the advancement of medical innovations in the Sooner State and across the world. With institutions like the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University conducting cutting-edge research, the state is becoming a hub for early-stage drug development.
Rural & Indigenous Health
Immunology research in Oklahoma is a growing field, contributing significantly to advancements in the understanding of immune system functions and diseases. Research in the state focuses on areas such as autoimmune diseases, cancer immunotherapy, infectious diseases, and vaccine development. Oklahoma’s collaborative environment between academic institutions, healthcare organizations, and private industry fosters innovative research aimed at improving treatments and outcomes for patients. The state’s strengths in biomedical research, along with its emphasis on translational science, position Oklahoma as a key player in the ongoing efforts to develop novel immunotherapies and advance public health.
Industry
Snapshot
$316
Million
in annual bioscience-related university/biomedical institution R&D expenditures.

563
life science businesses are in Oklahoma and they pay an average wage of $84,000 per year in the industrial biosciences. For hospital workers that is $68,000.
74,884
people are directly employed in the life science industry in Oklahoma. Employment in the industry has experienced 10% growth since 2015.
Life Science
Innovation Ecosystem
Talent Development
Certifications
- BioTC Oklahoma
- OK CareerTech
- Associates: OSU & Rose State
Undergraduate/Graduate
- OU Bio Care Facility
- OU Biomedical College of Engineering
- OSU Engineering
Basic & Applied Research
- Oklahoma State University (R1)
- University of Oklahoma (R1)
- Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
- Translational Center for Therapeutics (SCC)
- OneHealth: Human, Animal, & Environmental (OSU)
Industry Development
- CDMO (Cytovance, Wheeler)
- CMO (Avara)
- Drug Testing (ARL & DNA Solutions)
- Diagnostics (IMMY)
- Drug Development (Selexys, Tetherex)
- 6th Largest Blood Bank (OBI)
Technology Commercialization
- OKBio Startup Programs
- Ascend BioVentures
- Innovation Hubs: OSU & OU
Clinical Trials
& Excellence
- OU Stephenson Cancer Center (NCI Designated)
New Ventures
& Access to Capital
- Boyd Street Ventures
- Cortado Ventures
- Echo Capital
- Plains Ventures
- OCAST (SBIR)
- Oklahoma Life Sciences Fund