The biomedical laboratories at Gannon University are under construction. The collaborative project will expand cancer research, create up to 100 jobs within the next five years, and address the shortage of lab technicians and managers.
Today the next phase of work is being outlined as the ongoing progress continues. The project is expected to be done in the fall. Two new labs and related medical facilities will be added to support biomedical research, hands on learning, and advanced cancer care.
“We have been working toward this moment for a long time and seeing the labs start to take shape brings a great deal of satisfaction,” said Dr. Walter Iwanenko, Ph.D., president of Gannon University. “We are overwhelmed by the cross-community support for this project several regional organizations and local, state and federal officials have contributed to making this moment happen. That’s not typical, and I think it is an acknowledgement of the importance of this project.
“We are deeply appreciative of this support from our partners. These funds will immediately support new jobs in Erie at First Ascent as well as aid the development of two academic programs designed to fill gaps in the region’s healthcare workforce for years to come,” Iwanenko said.
The project had been announced last March with an initial investment of $6.5 million. Recently the project has received several investments that have allowed the project to move on to the construction phase.
Community partners contributed to the ongoing advancement of the project including The Erie Community Foundation.
The new space will include a 3,000-square-foot CLIA-approved laboratory for First Ascent Biomedical. About 2,000 square feet will be used for office space allowing for up to 20,000 patients each year.
The expansion will create 38 jobs immediately with growth expected to surpass 100 jobs within the first five years.
“This collaboration with Gannon University and our healthcare partners Allegheny Health Network St. Vincent reflects what can happen when a community invests in innovation that directly benefits patients,” said Jim Foote, CEO and co-founder of First Ascent Biomedical. “By expanding our laboratory capabilities here in Erie, we are helping physicians access the leading-edge biological data they need to make faster and more informed individualized cancer treatment decisions.”
A second 3,000 square-foot laboratory in I-HACK will be operated by AHN Saint Vincent Hospital. The hospital will utilize this addition to enhance the already existing clinical laboratory operations and expand the medical laboratory science education program.
A new two-year medical technology degree program will be offered at Gannon University with plans to expand enrollment for the four-year medical laboratory science program.