Inquiry. Investigation. Innovation.

Graduate student in CMD5 lab.

At the University of South Florida, world-class interdisciplinary research thrives in an environment that inspires innovative thinking, encourages the creation of new knowledge and applies emerging technologies to solutions with global impact.

USF has experienced record-breaking growth in research funding, receiving more than $300 million in contracts and grants in 2007. The National Science Foundation survey of federally financed research and development expenditures at universities and colleges ranks USF the second highest in Florida.

Revenue generated by licensing intellectual property to private businesses has doubled since 2003, exceeding $2 million for the first time in USF history and placing USF second in technology commercialization in the state university system. Among recent developments:

» Largo, Fla.-based GeoPharma Inc. acquired from USF the patent rights for a new test to detect early-stage ovarian cancer.

» MiMedx, a venture capital funded start-up company, exemplifies a unique partnership involving USF, Shriners Hospital and MiMedx to commercialize biomaterials for connective and soft-tissue repair.

A $169-million international study could eradicate juvenile diabetes.

In addition, USF is making remarkable breakthroughs in medicine, biotechnology, engineering, the environment and other innovative fields that touch lives around the globe. Following a $169-million federal award last year — USF’s largest award to date — USF Health’s Pediatric Epidemiology Center is leading an extensive, international study to explain the triggers of juvenile diabetes.

The Florida Center of Excellence in Biomolecular Identification & Targeted Therapeutics, a multi-disciplinary partnership housed in the USF Research Park, stimulates economic growth in Florida in the growing field of biotechnology.
New drug compounds discovered by the USF Center for Molecular Diversity in Drug Design, Discovery and Delivery (CMD5) are on the front lines of the next generation of pharmaceuticals.

USF researchers are conducting cutting-edge work in facial recognition for national security and pattern representation for energy solutions. Faculty members are collaborating with the state to find new ways to track mosquito-borne viruses. And USF is home to the only robot-assisted search and rescue response team in the world and hosts the nation’s first interactive fitness research lab for children. Moreover, USF is a nationally recognized leader in Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease research.

“In just 51 years, USF has achieved a remarkable level of excellence, and that momentum continues to build,” says President Judy Genshaft. “We have a bold vision and ambitious plans already in motion that promise a robust, enriching and exciting future for our business and industry partners.”