Gilbert, Ariz. Expands Life Science Sector with Two New Cancer and Stem Cell Research and Treatment Centers

Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, CHW Gilbert Hospital, Translational Research Institute, and Celebration Stem Cell Contribute to Rapid Industry Growth

2011 BIO International Convention
2011 BIO International Convention:Gilbert, Arizona Economic Development Division

WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Gilbert, Arizona is achieving significant growth in its life science industry through the opening of two new hospitals, the Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, several private companies focusing on stem cell research and treatments, and strong collaborative partnerships with Phoenix-area hospitals and Catholic Healthcare West hospitals. Strong contributors to Gilbert’s future growth include Celebration Stem Cell Centre (CSCC) and its newly launched spinoff, the Translational Research Institute (TRI). Together they plan to develop the next key components to advance cellular technologies and stem cell therapy in the United States.

“We are looking forward to providing advanced treatment technologies and research opportunities in the greater Phoenix area”

“We are looking forward to providing advanced treatment technologies and research opportunities in the greater Phoenix area,” said Pam Nenaber, CEO of Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center and Banner Gateway Medical Center. “The Banner Gateway campus in Gilbert was selected because of its strategic location; providing easy access to the Phoenix freeway system and local airports.”

“Gilbert, Arizona will be a worldwide destination for patient treatment and a center for scientists to be trained from basic science to clinical application for stem cells,” said Dr. Nabil Dib, Chief Scientific Officer for TRI and Medical Director and Chief Investigator at the Celebration Stem Cell Centre.

“The establishment of these new organizations and companies in Gilbert represent a major milestone towards our strategic goal of becoming a regional and national leader within the rapidly advancing life science industry,” said Gilbert Mayor John Lewis. “Our unique medical, scientific, and business environment meets the conditions to attract senior research physicians, principle investigators, faculty, and medical practitioners from around the country.”

Gilbert economic development representatives will be meeting with site selectors and organizations from around the world at BIO 2011 (Hall A, Arizona Pavilion, Booth 2565) to provide the latest industry reports, statistics, and other information about Arizona’s life science industry. Researchers, institutions, and companies interested in opening offices in Gilbert for stem cell research should contact Gilbert’s economic development division at: [email protected] or (480) 503-6010.

Gilbert, Arizona Life Science Resources: Within the past two years, Gilbert, Arizona has grown into a regional leader in life science research and treatments for cancer and for research and therapies utilizing adult stem cells. It is conveniently located between two airports with commuting accessibility to 100,000+ healthcare practitioners and technicians. Key resources include:

• Major Healthcare Providers/Services: Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, Banner Gateway Medical Center, and Ironwood Cancer Research Center.
• Over 2 million square feet of state-of-the-art hospital and clinical research facilities.
• Approximately 300 acres of real estate earmarked for healthcare facilities and services.
• Celebration Stem Cell Centre & Mercy Gilbert Medical Center – leading research center for cord blood stem cell research, processing, and storage.
• Close proximity to over 800 science and technology firms, potential for collaborative partnerships.
• Access to 100,000 healthcare practitioners and technicians within 45 minute commute.
• Educational resources: Arizona State University Polytechnic, A.T. Still University, Pima Medical Institute, the Bryman School, and Chandler-Gilbert Community College.
• Regional Assets: The Science Foundation Arizona, Arizona Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Mayo Clinic, Flinn Foundation.

About Celebration Stem Cell Centre, (CSCC)
The Celebration Stem Cell Centre’s mission is to provide the highest quality of viable stem cells for transplant and regenerative medicine and to increase awareness of the healing effects of stem cells. Expectant mothers register in advance at www.CelebrationStemCellCentre.com to donate from any hospital in the state of Arizona or privately bank from anywhere in the nation. CSCC collaborates with several non-profit foundations to provide educational information about cord blood banking and stem cell research, including Save the Cord Foundation and Translational Stem Cell Research Foundation.

About Translational Research Institute, (TRI)
TRI is a private company formed to develop innovative treatments for cardiovascular disease through breakthrough cellular technologies and medical devices. TRI will fund clinical research projects and establish strategic partnerships with world-leading scientists and principal investigators in stem cell transplant therapies and regenerative medicine.

About Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center
The new center will open in September of 2011, on the Banner Gateway Medical Campus and will deliver an unprecedented level of cancer care to patients in Arizona through the collaboration of Banner Health, one of the country’s largest nonprofit hospital systems, and MD Anderson, internationally renowned for its cancer treatment and research.

About Gilbert, Arizona
Gilbert, Arizona is located in the southeast valley of the Phoenix metropolitan area. With a population of 220,000 Gilbert was ranked the 4th fastest-growing large municipality in the nation and ranks 36th out of the top 100 best places to live in America according to CNN/Money Magazine. Gilbert also has one of the highest ranked K-12 education systems in Arizona and noted as the 5th safest city in the country. For additional details on Gilbert’s low operating costs, established life and bio science employers, incentives and available workforce, please contact the Economic Development Division at [email protected] or 480.503.6010, or visit: www.gilbertedi.com.

Contacts
TopSpin Communications, Inc.
Joe Waldygo, 480-363-8774
[email protected]

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