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Our shared vision of a thriving, innovative and diverse economy integrates each science and research resource in St. Lucie County creating the “Heart of Florida’s Research Coast.”
ST. LUCIE COUNTY’S RESEARCH TRIANGLE CURRENT
FAST FACTS 51 BUILDINGS/44 GREENHOUSES
1,446,265 SQUARE FEET 585 TOTAL STAFF 1,936 ACRES PROPOSED
FAST FACTS
39 ADDITIONAL BUILDINGS 1,911,000 ADDITIONAL SQ. FT. 5,400 ADDITIONAL STAFF N/A St. Lucie County the “Heart of Florida’s Research Coast.”
WELCOME TO A WEALTH OF WORLD-CLASS
INNOVATION AND RESEARCH WELCOME to the 2012 St. Lucie County Education & Research Coalition Yearbook! In these pages, you will find the details of a remarkable community of world class research professionals and their supporting education, research and civic organizations. The Treasure Coast Research Park is proud to be a part of this community and to bring you the 2012 Yearbook that highlights the
accomplishments and efforts of so many talented scientists and educators. We hope you find that the breadth and depth of the research resources available in St. Lucie County inspire you to ask new questions and to explore the boundaries of your curiosity. Ben DeVries CEO & Executive Director Treasure Coast Research Park
"Move to a Climate of Innovation!�
Treasure Coast Research Park
M ove to a C l i m a t e o f I n n o v a t i o n
Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce
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WELCOME TO ST. LUCIE COUNTY
OUR MISSION The St. Lucie Research & Education Coalition is an organization formed to facilitate the sharing of information and resources among its member institutions, and to encourage cooperative projects to enhance research, education and economic development in St. Lucie County.
OUR HISTORY (2000 – 2012) In 2000, a group of local educators and researchers with the express purpose to create research and education opportunities in St. Lucie County came together for area students in an effort to keep them in the community rather than to look outside the county and state for a career. Founding organizations included Florida Atlantic University, Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at FAU, United States Depart of Agriculture/Agricultural Research Service, St Lucie County Community Development (now the Planning and Development Services Department), University of Florida Institute of Food and Agriculture Science Extension (UF IFAS), University of Florida’s Indian River Research and Education Center (UF IRECC), Barry University, St. Lucie County School Board and the Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce. Through the years, as more educational and research institutions were established in the county, they were invited to join the Coalition. Member organizations now meet regularly to explore ways of improving agribusiness, education, research and industry collaboration. SLCERC
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The “Heart of the
Research Coast” TTurnpike u npike ur F Feeder ee eder Rd.
RESEARCH INSTITUTES AND PARKS FLORIDA’S FLORIDA’S TURNPIKE TURNPIKE
Kin gs Hwyy g Kings
Orange Or ange Ave. Avve. A
Virginia Vir ginia Ave. Ave.
Okeechobee Ok eechobee Rd.
Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce
INTERSTATE IN NTERSTA ATE
95 9 5
Treasure Coast Research Park
FLORIDA’S FLORIDA’S TURNPIKE TURNPIKE
M ove to a C l i m a t e o f I n n o v a t i o n
St. L St. Lucie ucie W est Blvd. West
Gatlin Blvd.
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Downtown Downtown D Ft. Pierce Pie erce
“St. Lucie County’s Research Triangle” Agriculture Science
Marine Science
Treasure Coast Research Park
Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University
Life Science Tradition Center for Innovation
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WHAT’S INSIDE Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University ..............................8-19 Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce .......................................................................20-22 Treasure Coast Research Park ........................................................................................24-27 United States Department of Agriculture/Agricultural Research Service..........................28-38 University of Florida Institute of Food & Agricultural Sciences (IFAS)..............................40-45 University of Florida IFAS St. Lucie County Extension....................................................46-49 Tradition Center For Innovation ........................................................................................50-51 Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies .....................................................................52-59 Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute ................................................................................60-63 Mann Research Center.....................................................................................................64-65 Martin Health System Tradition Medical Center ...............................................................66-67 Educational Institutions .....................................................................................................69-73 Civic Business Resources and Amenities ........................................................................75-79
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HARBOR BRANCH OCEANOGRAPHIC INSTITUTE AT FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University (HBOI FAU) is one of the world’s leading oceanographic research organizations dedicated to exploring the Earth’s oceans, estuaries and coastal regions for the benefit of mankind. Situated on the Indian River Lagoon between Fort Pierce and Vero Beach, HBOI FAU is involved in research and education in the marine sciences, marine biomedical sciences, marine mammal conservation, aquaculture and ocean engineering.
2012 RESEARCH AREAS & EXPERTISE FAU Harbor Branch research is guided by four strategic themes: • • • •
Founded in 1971, became part of FAU in December 2007
Ocean Exploration Understanding Marine Ecosystem Function Wise Use of Marine Resources Innovative Technology Development
FAST FACTS
32 BUILDINGS 317,509 SQUARE FEET 150 TOTAL STAFF www.fau.edu/hboi
144 ACRES
Dr. Margaret Leinen Associate Provost of Marine and Environmental Initiatives Executive Director Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute
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CONTACT INFORMATION 5600 U.S. 1 North Fort Pierce, FL 34946 www.fau.edu/hboi Phone 772-242-2400 mleinen@fau.edu
ke . npi Tur der Rd Fee
Old Dixie Hwy Hwy..
Indrio In drio Rd. Rd.
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Geoff Beiser, PhD Senior Engineer / Project Manager gbeiser@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION Bachelor’s, Ocean Engineering, Florida Institute of Technology
RESEARCH: Ocean energy, subsea defense systems, mooring systems, subsea cable and array systems, launch and recovery systems and shipboard deck equipment
Fraser Dalgleish, PhD Assistant Research Professor fdalglei@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Ocean Engineering, Cranfield University (UK) Master’s, Ocean Engineering, Cranfield University (UK) Bachelor’s, Electronics and Electrical Engineering, The University of Edinburgh (UK) RESEARCH: Underwater laser imaging and communications, optical properties in marine environments, sensor networks and fluorescence imaging
Megan Davis, PhD Director, Aquaculture and Stock Enhancement mdavi105@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Biological Science, Florida Institute of Technology Master's, Marine Ecology, Florida Institute of Technology Bachelor's, Aquaculture/Environmental Science, Florida Institute of Technology
RESEARCH: Aquaculture of tropical species, including queen conch and spiny lobster; areas of specialty include early life history, nursery and grow out techniques, stock enhancement, conservation ecology and business development
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Donna Devlin, PhD Assistant Research Professor ddevlin@fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, University of Louisiana at Lafayette
RESEARCH: Molecular (microsatellites, AFLPs), organismal (defense compounds, plant physiology), population biology, community (plant-animal interactions, plant-plant competition) and landscape (mangrove forests and salt marshes, restoration ecology)
Sara Edge, PhD Assistant Research Professor sedge4@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Environmental & Molecular Biology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Bachelor's, Journalism, University of Georgia, Athens, GA; Presidential Scholar
RESEARCH: Use of advanced molecular diagnostics (microarray analysis) to detect and characterize environmental stress responses in corals and to identify the mechanisms behind coral bleaching and disease infection
Amber Garr, PhD Research Associate agarr1@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Integrative Biology, Florida Atlantic University Master's, Coastal Environmental Management, Duke University Bachelor's, Biological Sciences, Goucher College
RESEARCH: Apple snail stock enhancement and queen conch biology and life history, including effects of the environment on larval development and metamorphosis, captive breeding, nutrition and juvenile growout programs for stock enhancement
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Juli Goldstein, PhD Assistant Research Professor jgolds31@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.), Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine Bachelor's, Zoology, Auburn University RESEARCH: Etiopathogenesis of Kogia spp. cardiomyopathy, diagnostic ultrasound, marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, marine mammal conservation medicine and policy
Esther A. Guzmรกn, PhD Assistant Research Professor eguzman9@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Immunology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Bachelor's, Molecular Biology/Biotechnology, Salem-Teikyo University
RESEARCH: Cancer cell biology with particular focus on investigation of marine natural products as potential treatments for, preventive agents against and/or tools to better understand pancreatic cancer.
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M. Dennis Hanisak, PhD Research Professor Director of Marine Ecosystem Health & Director of Harbor Branch Education dhanisak@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Biological Sciences, University of Rhode Island Master's, Botany, University of Rhode Island Bachelor's, Biological Sciences, Rutgers University RESEARCH: Physiology and ecology of marine plants (macroalgae and seagrasses), including primary production, nutrient uptake and photobiology; biodiversity and ecosystem function of the Indian River Lagoon; coral reef algal communities; cultivation and utilization of marine plants as resources
Brian Lapointe, PhD Research Professor blapoin1@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Biology, University of South Florida Master's, Environmental Sciences, University of Florida Bachelor's, Biology, Boston University RESEARCH: Monitoring water quality and nutrient enrichment on coral reefs using C:N:P ratios and stable nitrogen isotope analysis of phytoplankton and benthic algae; tropical seagrass ecology, effects of nutrient enrichment and eutrophication on seagrass productivity, physiological ecology of invasive macroalgae in seagrass ecosystems; ecology and oceanography of pelagic Sargassum communities in the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, Loop Current, Gulf Stream and Sargasso Sea
Susan Laramore, PhD Assistant Research Professor slaramo1@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Marine Molecular Biology, Florida Institute of Technology Master's, Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville Bachelor's, Biology, Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville RESEARCH: Histological analysis of aquatic animal health, crustacean, and bivalve diseases; the effect of the environment on the progression of these diseases and immune system function
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Marilyn Mazzoil Senior Research Associate mmazzoil@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION Bachelor's, Education, The Ohio State University
RESEARCH: Population ecology of dolphins in the Indian River Lagoon and the occurrence of infectious diseases related to site fidelity and environmental data
Peter McCarthy, PhD Research Professor pmccart5@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Microbiology/Biochemistry, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK. Bachelor's, (Hons) Biochemistry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
RESEARCH: Heterotrophic microbes associated with sponges and their use in biotechnology, such as novel sources of pharmaceutical agents and a new resource for the conversion of terrestrial and marine biomass into biofuels
Steve McCulloch Program Manager smccull5@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION U.S. Army/R.O.T.C. MT-II/Staff Sergeant/E-3 Congressional Appointment, USMA, West Point
RESEARCH: Dolphin health assessment, whale research and marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation
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Greg O’Corry-Crowe, PhD Associate Research Professor gocorryc@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, University College Dublin, Ireland Bachelor's, University College Dublin, Ireland
RESEARCH: Use of molecular genetic techniques and satellite-linked telemetry to study the molecular and behavioral ecology of northern temperate, polar, tropical and subtropical marine mammals
Bing Ouyang, PhD Research Associate bouyang@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Electrical Engineering, Southern Methodist University Master's, Computer Engineering, University of Florida Master's, Applied Marine Physics, University of Miami Bachelor’s, Electronic & Communication Systems, Xi’an Jiaotong University (China) RESEARCH: Computer vision and image understanding, signal and image processing and underwater acoustic signal processing
Shirley Pomponi, PhD Senior Research Professor spomponi@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Biological Oceanography, University of Miami, RSMAS Master's, Biological Oceanography, University of Miami, RSMAS Bachelor's, Biology, College of St. Elizabeth (Summa Cum Laude) RESEARCH: Biology and systematics of deep, mesophotic and shallow coral reef sponges throughout the Gulf of Mexico, Florida Keys, southeast U.S. continental shelf and Caribbean; cell and molecular biology, physiology and systematics of marine sponges from shallow and deep-water benthic environments throughout the Gulf of Mexico, Florida Keys, southeast U.S. continental shelf and Caribbean; development of in vitro methods for sustainable use of marine-derived chemicals with biotechnological / biomedical applications SLCERC
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Ed Proffitt, PhD Associate Professor cproffit@fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, University of South Florida
RESEARCH: Ecology of marine and estuarine macrophytes (mangroves, salt marsh and seagrass systems) and invertebrates, restoration ecology and conservation genetics
John Reed, MSc Senior Research Scientist Research Professor jreed12@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION Master's, Marine Ecology, Florida Atlantic University Bachelor's, Biology, Chemistry, University of Miami RESEARCH: Biology of deep-water coral reefs and taxonomy of reef organisms, including mapping and habitat characterization of shallow, mesophotic and deep reef environments throughout the Gulf of Mexico, Florida Keys, southeast U.S. continental shelf and Caribbean; biology of deep-water coral reefs and taxonomy of reef organisms, including mapping and habitat characterization
John Scarpa, PhD Research Professor jscarpa1@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, Texas A&M University Master's, Marine Studies, University of Delaware Bachelor's, Marine Sciences, Long Island University: Southampton College RESEARCH: Bivalve culture and genome manipulation, oyster restoration/ecology and delineation of culture requirements of pharmacologically important species
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Adam Schaefer, MPH Epidemiologist aschaefer@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION Master's, Epidemiology, Saint Louis University School of Public Health Bachelor's, Anthropology/Chemistry, Southeast Missouri State University
RESEARCH: Epidemiological study of diseases across marine mammal populations to identify environmental and anthropogenic impacts on wildlife health
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Larry Taylor, PhD Assistant Research Professor ltaylo47@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Biological Science, Florida International University Bachelor's, Biology, minors in Chemistry and Philosophy, Elon University
RESEARCH: Manatee protection systems for water control structures and navigation locks using piezoelectric contact sensors and non-contact acoustic blocked-beam sensors
Joshua Voss, PhD Assistant Research Professor jvoss2@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Biological Science, Florida International University Bachelor's, Biology, minors in Chemistry and Philosophy, Elon University
RESEARCH: Coral reef ecology and community dynamics, molecular profiling of bacterial communities and development of advanced molecular technologies to identify environmental drivers and impacts of coral diseases
Anni Vuorenkoski Dalgleish, PhD Research Associate, Ocean Visibility and Optics Lab adalglei@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Mechanical Engineering, Cranfield University, UK Master's, Mechanical Engineering, Cranfield University, UK Bachelor's, Mechanical Engineering, Helsinki Institute of Technology, Finland
RESEARCH: Fluid dynamics, marine particle dynamics, optical diagnostics of fluids and flows, fluorescence and dropsize imaging of hydrocarbon aerosols and thermodynamics
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Paul Wills, PhD Associate Research Professor pwills2@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale Master's, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale Bachelor's, University of Southwestern Louisiana RESEARCH: Development of techniques for intensive controlled aquaculture of high-quality, healthy marine fish suitable for stock enhancement, restoration and mitigation
Amy E. Wright, PhD Director, Center for Marine Biomedical and Biotechnology Research Research Professor awrigh33@hboi.fau.edu EDUCATION PhD, Organic Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, CA Master's, Organic Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, CA Bachelor's, Chemistry, California State University, Dominguez Hills, CA RESEARCH: Investigation of marine natural products from marine invertebrates and associated bacterial symbionts
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Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce
SMITHSONIAN MARINE STATION AT FORT PIERCE The Smithsonian Marine Station is situated on the Indian River Lagoon, a long, narrow estuary stretching 150 miles along Florida’s east central coast, which offers a diversity of habitats for study, including mangroves, salt marshes, seagrass beds, sand and mud flats, and oyster reefs. In addition, there are the nearby sandy beaches of the barrier island, the extensive waters and sandy plains of the Continental Shelf and, at the edge of the Shelf, the Florida Current, a component of the Gulf Stream System. The coral reefs of the Florida Keys are approximately 200 miles to the south.
PROGRAMS • Benthic Ecology Program • Chemical Ecology Program • Life Histories Program • Visiting Scientist Program • Marine Ecosystems Exhibit
FAST FACTS
5 BUILDINGS Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce
16,941 SQUARE FEET 20 TOTAL STAFF
www.sms.si.edu/
8 ACRES
Dr. Valerie Paul
CONTACT INFORMATION
Head Scientist
701 Seaway Drive Fort Pierce, FL, 34949 www.sms.si.edu Phone (772) 462-0982 Fax: (772) 461-8154 Paul@si.edu
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Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce
wy. ie H Dix
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Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce
Dr. Bjorn Tunberg Research Biologist EDUCATION PhD, Zoology, University of Goteborg, Sweden Bachelor’s, Marine Biology, Bergen, Norway
RESEARCH: Impact from climate change and oscillations on the marine environment, long term changes in marine/estuarine macrobenthic communities and the ecology of marine burrowing decapod crustaceans
Valerie Paul Head Scientist EDUCATION PhD, Marine Biology, University of California at San Diego, Scripps Institution of Oceanography Bachelor’s, Biology and Chemical Ecology, University of California at San Diego RESEARCH: Ecological roles of marine natural products, temporal and spatial variability of benthic cyanobacteria (Lyngbya spp.) in the Indian River Lagoon, marine plant-herbivore interactions, impact of toxic cyanobacterial blooms (Lyngbya spp.) on coral reef habitats, settlement and metamorphosis of larvae of reef-building corals and marine natural products
Mary E. Rice Research Zoologist, Emeritus EDUCATION PhD, University of Washington Master’s, Oberlin College Bachelor’s, Drew University RESEARCH: Systematics and development of marine sipunculan worms and development and larval biology of marine invertebrates worldwide
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Treasure Coast Research Park
M ove to a C l i m a t e o f I n n o v a t i o n
TREASURE COAST RESEARCH PARK
The Treasure Coast Research Park is home to over 200 multi-disciplinary researchers, scientists, educators and staff. USDA’s 170,000 square foot Horticultural Research Laboratory and the 90,000 square foot University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences’ Indian River Research and Education Center anchors the research campus. With over three square miles of land, the Park is planned for 3.3 million square feet of research
and advanced manufacturing development and 800 acres of agricultural test fields. Since its formation in 2005, the Treasure Coast Education, Research and Development Authority (TCERDA) has guided the planning and operation of the Park. 2011 saw the approval of the first Phase of Park for development of 1.3 million square feet situated on 154 acres circumscribed by Kings Highway, Pruitt Research Road, Rock Road and Picos Road. 2012 will see construction of roads, pedestrian walkways, water and sanitary utility mains and water retention lakes. With an eye to meeting tomorrow’s challenges, the Park’s research is focused on Food, Energy and Water – a FEW things for a Sustainable Future. RESEARCH INSTITUTES • United States Department of Agriculture/Agricutural Research Service • University of Florida - Institute of Food & Agricultural Sciences (IFAS)
FAST FACTS
Treasure Coast Research Park
12 BUILDINGS/44GREENHOUSES
293,815 SQUARE FEET
M ove to a C l i m a t e o f I n n o v a t i o n
245 TOTAL STAFF
www.TreasureCoastResearchPark.com
1,634 ACRES
Ben DeVries, FRICS, CRE
CONTACT INFORMATION
CEO & Executive Director
2199 South Rock Road Ft. Pierce, FL 34945 Phone (772) 467-3107 ceo@tcerda.org
www.treasurecoastresearchpark.com
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Treasure Coast Research Park
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. Okeechobee Rd
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N
Treasure Coast Research Park
M ove to a C l i m a t e o f I n n o v a t i o n
1.3 MILLION SQ-FT BUILDING EXPANSION SPACE AVAILABLE
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Treasure Coast Research Park
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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AGRICULTURE RESEARCH SERVICE The United States Department of Agriculture / Agriculture Research Service (USDA /ARS) has national responsibility to conduct high priority research related to these objectives: • Conduct applied and basic research in citrus genetics to develop scions and root stocks. Improve quality and management of water usage. Utilize vegetable grafting as an alternative to the use of methyl bromide to control pests. • Improve disease control for citrus, vegetable crops, and ornamentals to enhance production efficiency to minimize adverse effects on the environment, producers, and food quality. Research activities impact producers, state and federal regulatory agencies, and international trade. • Evaluation and study of insect vectors of plant diseases; biological control of insect pests by use of parasitoids, predators and other beneficial organisms; study of plant resistance to insects; characterization of
effects of plant products on insects; and biochemical and molecular characterization of plant defensive proteins and phytochemicals. • Improve flavor, textural and nutritional quality while extending shelf life and microbial stability of subtropical and tropical fruit and fruit products. Use chemical and other analytical techniques to obtain fundamental information about mechanisms by which internal compositional profiles of these commodities are changed through genetics, harvest maturity, storage or processing and determine effects of such changes on available nutrients and other quality factors. Develop new mechanisms, or modify established mechanisms for converting commodities into more desirable products. Develop new approaches for the conversion of polysaccharides in fruit processing wastes to value-added products. Isolate from citrus by products, phenols with biological activities targeted towards a number of pharmacological endpoints.
FAST FACTS 1 BUILDINGS/ 29 GREENHOUSES
131,400 SQUARE FEET 150 TOTAL STAFF www.ars.usda.gov
338 ACRES Calvine E. Arnold, PhD Laboratory Director
CONTACT INFORMATION 2001 South Rock Road Fort Pierce FL 34945 (772) 462-5810 calvin.arnold@ars.usda.gov www.ars.usda.gov
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UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE HORTICULTURE AND BREEDING RESEARCH UNIT The Horticulture and Breeding Unit conducts applied and basic research in citrus genetics and breeding, water quality & plant nutrition and postharvest physiology. To develop scions and rootstocks having enhanced tolerance of environmental stress, resistance to diseases and pests and improved fruit quality and yield. Specifically, desirable genetic traits are identified within species of citrus and among closely related genera and species and are combined by
conventional breeding and /or cellular and molecular engineering techniques. Results of this research are new and superior citrus varieties and rootstocks. New breeding lines with unique combinations of desirable traits are also produced that are used by citrus breeders and other researchers. The breeding program is one of the oldest in the world and evaluates over 50,000 trees each year at the two USDA research farms in Leesburg and Fort Pierce, Florida.
Kim Bowman, PhD Research Geneticist RESEARCH: The research of Dr. Bowman is focused on development of new citrus rootstock cultivars with greater disease resistance, higher productivity, broader soil adaptation, or more favorable influence on the fruit quality or tree size of common scion cultivars.
Ed Stover, PhD Horticulturist RESEARCH: Dr. Stoverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s focus is development of solutions to citrus greening (HLB) through resistant varieties, identifying opportunities for profitable citrus production while managing HLB, and evaluation of other fruit crops as an alternative to citrus.
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Greg McCollum, PhD Research Plant Physiologist RESEARCH: Dr. McCollum’s overall research objectives are to develop, evaluate and release improved citrus scion varieties for the US using hybridization, irradiation, and transformation. New citrus scions recently released include a seedless ‘Pineapple’ and a low-seeded ‘Fallglo’ tangerine.
Michael Bausher, PhD Research Plant Physiologist RESEARCH: : Dr. Bausher’s research focuses on determining whether grafting tomatoes and peppers to disease resistant rootstocks can provide a competitive alternative to preplant methyl bromide fumigation. This work is conducted in the framework of the challenges and needs of field-grown commercial vegetable production in Southeastern US conditions. The goal is to determine the rootstock / scion combinations which are superior under these conditions, and provide high quality vegetable products.
Randall Niedz, PhD Research Geneticist RESEARCH: : Dr. Niedz is responsible for citrus improvement through in- vitro breeding methods. In vitro methods are developed and utilized for citrus and citrus relatives to increase the germplasm base, provide resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, and to improve horticultural quality.
Joseph Albano, PhD Research Horticulturist RESEARCH: : Objectives of Dr. Albano’s research are to develop improved methods and technologies in plant nutrition and water quality to minimize pollution from agricultural operations, increase water conservation, and improve the efficiency and economic viability of agricultural operations in Florida.
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UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE SUBTROPICAL PLANT PATHOLOGY RESEARCH UNIT The Subtropical Plant Pathology Unit conducts research to improve disease control for citrus, vegetable crops, and ornamentals to enhance production efficiency and to minimize adverse effects on the environment, producers, and food quality. Research focuses on diseases caused by bacteria, fungi, nematodes, viruses, viroids, weeds, and maladies of undetermined cause to improve pathogen detection, define disease epidemiology, etiology, identify disease-resistant germplasm, evaluate field and horticultural factors which
affect disease severity, characterize the genetic basis of diseases, improve disease management, and develop alternative, biological-based control of soil-borne diseases, nematodes and weeds controlled conventionally by methyl bromide in vegetable crops. New exotic, emerging, reemerging, and uncharacterized diseases and pests are examined to estimate their potential to threaten U.S. agriculture and to limit crop loss. Research activities impact producers, state and federal regulatory agencies, and international trade.
TIMOTHY R. GOTTWALD, PhD Leader / Plant Pathologist RESEARCH: Dr. Gottwald conducts research on citrus epidemiology/pathology to provide fundamental knowledge on epidemiology, etiology, and host-parasite interactions of exotic and domestic bacterial, viral, and fungal foliar and fruit pathogens of citrus and Prunus. The long-range goal is the development of innovative disease control strategies based on sound biological and epidemiological evaluation of disease pathosystems.
Dr. Scott Adkins, PhD Research Plant Pathologist RESEARCH: The major emphasis of Dr. Adkinsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; research program are identification, characterization and management of virus and virus-like pathogens of vegetables and ornamentals and the interactions of these pathogens with vegetable, ornamental, agronomic and weed hosts and insect vectors.
Nancy Kokalis-Burelle, PhD Research Ecologist RESEARCH: Dr. Burelle is an ecologist working on alternatives to methyl bromide soil fumigation for plant parasitic nematode control in vegetable and ornamental crops. Research is focused on determining the effects of reduced risk chemicals, novel cultural practices, crop rotation, organic amendments and biological control agents on plant parasitic nematodes. SLCERC
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Dan Chellemi, PhD Research Plant Pathologist RESEARCH: The goal of Dr. Chellemi’s research program is to develop economically viable programs for the management of soilborne pests that conserve natural resources and minimize environmental disruption. These programs will rely primarily on inputs of pest biological knowledge and secondarily on physical, chemical, and biological supplements for pest management.
Yongping Duan, PhD Research Plant Pathologist RESEARCH: Dr. Duan’s program primarily focuses on genome sequencing of Liberibacter pathogens, developing high through put, sensitive detection method and determining seed transmission of these pathogens in the development of HLB, identifying genetic markers for differentiating strains of HLB bacteria, and screening effective chemical compounds for the control of HLB.
Mark Hilf, PhD Citrus Virologist RESEARCH: Dr. Hilf's lab researches the basic biology of graft-transmissible pathogens of citrus, including viruses, viroids, and bacteria.Currently the focus is on characterization of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’, the bacterium associated with the huanglongbing disease of citrus, with recent work on seed transmission and methods of purifying the bacteria from citrus tissues.
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Erin Rosskopf, PhD Research Microbiologist RESEARCH: Dr. Rosskopf is a microbiologist working on alternatives to methyl bromide for weed and fungal plant pathogen control. The focus of the program is on the use of cultural systems and biologically based approaches to pest management for production of vegetables and ornamentals.
Bill Turechek, PhD Research Plant Pathologist RESEARCH: Dr. Turchek studies the epidemiology and ecology of fruit and vegetable diseases. The overall goal is to characterize the epidemology of important diseases and utilize the information to develop economical and sustainable disease management programs. He is interested in adapting, modifying, or designing statistical procedures for the analysis of plant disease epidemics.
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE SUBTROPICAL INSECTS RESEARCH UNIT The Unit conducts basic and applied research on insect pests of citrus and other subtropical and tropical fruits, ornamentals and vegetables. Information on the biology, biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology and physiology of insects and their interactions with plants and plant pathogens is obtained to improve or design new management strategies. Research includes evaluation and study
of insect vectors of plant diseases; biological control of insect pests by use of parasitoids, predators and other beneficial organisms; study of plant resistance to insects; characterization of effects of plant products on insects; and biochemical and molecular characterization of plant defensive proteins and phytochemicals.
David G. Hall, PhD Research Leader/ Entomologist RESEARCH: Dr. Hall conducts research on the biology, ecology and biological control of insects to develop IPM Strategies aimed at reducing losses to insect pests of citrus. Current research is focused on control strategies for the Asian Citrus Psyllid which vectors the bacteria that causes the devastating HLB disease in citrus.
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Wayne Hunter,PhD Research Entomologist RESEARCH: Dr. Hunter is the Lead Scientist conducting research on insect-plant pathogen interactions. This includes the transmission of Pierceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease of grapes by the glassy-winged sharpshooter, GWSS. He also conducts research on exotic insect pests.
Stephen L. Lapointe, PhD Research Entomologist RESEARCH: Dr. Lapointe's group works to develop new management options for citrus growers through the discipline of Insect Chemical Ecology. Recent advances include discovery of a novel pheromone for the Diaprepes root weevil and development of mating disruption and attract-and-kill products and application methods for citrus leafminer and associated citrus canker disease. Current focus includes identification of attractants for the Asian citrus psyllid.
Cindy L. McKenzie, PhD Research Entomologist
RESEARCH: Dr. McKenzie is an applied entomologist primarily developing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies for the control of whiteflies and whiteflyvectored diseases in vegetable and ornamental crops. Research is focused on providing basic information on host plant-pest, pest-natural enemy and vector-pathogen interactions and plant disorders associated with whitefly feeding, as well as other exotic pests of vegetables, and ornamentals.
Robert Shatters, PhD Research Molecular Biologist RESEARCH: Dr. Shatters is developing biotechnological approaches for pest insect control in citrus and other horticultural crops. Research is conducted to identify natural mechanisms and substances that can be used in environmentally friendly control strategies to reduce yield-loss resulting from insect infestations.
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Joe Patt PhD Research Entomologist RESEARCH: Dr. Patt works to develop scientific knowledge and biologically based technology that will enhance the role of natural enemies in managing key insect pests and weeds, including the Asian Citrus Psyllid.
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE CITRUS & SUBTROPICAL PRODUCTS RESEARCH UNIT The mission of the Citrus & Subtropical Products Research Unit is (1) improve flavor, textural and nutritional quality while extending shelf life and microbial stability of subtropical and tropical fruit and fruit products; (2) use chemical and other analytical techniques to obtain fundamental information about mechanisms by which internal compositional profiles of these commodities are changed through genetics, harvest maturity, storage or processing and determine effects of
such changes on available nutrients and other quality factors; (3) develop new mechanisms, or modify established mechanisms for converting commodities into more desirable products; (4) develop new approaches for the conversion of polysaccharides in fruit processing wastes to value-added products; and (5) isolate from citrus byproducts, phenols with biological activities targeted towards a number of pharmacological endpoints.
Elizabeth Baldwin, PhD Research Leader/ Horticulturist RESEARCH: Dr. Baldwinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s research interests include postharvest physiology and overall quality of fresh, fresh-out, and processed fruits and vegetables, with an emphasis on the use of edible coatings and flavor quality of citrus, tomatoes, and tropical/subtropical products.
Jinhe Bai, PhD Flavor Chemist RESEARCH: Dr. Baiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current research interests are focused on development of controlled atmosphere (CA) storage, modified atmosphere (MA) packaging and edible coating technologies, and discovery of how internal and environmental factors influence metabolism and further impact flavor and nutritional quality of fruits and vegetables. SLCERC
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Randall Cameron, PhD Research Biologist RESEARCH: Dr. Cameronâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s research is on modifying pectin structural motifs and understanding the different functional properties that can be exhibited as the structure is modified. The two main ways that the pectin structure is modified is with pectin methylesterase (plant or fungal) and by base saponification. Characterizing the different structural and functional properties of pectin is paving the way for multiple industries to advance the applications of their market products.
Gary Luzio, PhD Research Chemist RESEARCH: Currently the Luzio lab is working on research involving alternative uses for citrus peel with an emphasis on new product development.Citrus peel is mostly composed of pectin which is water soluble andknown to form gels.These water gels and gel products could have applications involving paper manufacturing, drilling applications and plant disease treatments where altering waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s viscosity is a primary need.
John A. Manthey, PhD Research Chemist RESEARCH: An underlying need of citrus juice processors is to increase the value of the harvested crop, particularly through discoveries of new, value-added uses of waste peel. There are various candidate components of peel that can be explored, but the ones investigated by this team are the bioactive small molecule constituents. Emphasis is placed on the flavonoids, hydroxycinnamates, coumarins, furanocoumarins, although this list does not serve to exclude other possible marker, and/or bioactive constituents discovered in a variety of screening programs in place.
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Jan Narciso, PhD Research Microbiologist RESEARCH: Dr. Narciso focuses on citrus canker. In the field she is developing control methods and have been able to increase packout with our spray protocols. She is also active in working with the GAP group for new regulations on surface water usage for citrus. For the packinghouse, we are developing antimicrobial coatings for the line and active packaging to keep fresh fruit quality longer in storage and transit and also to remove any residual canker bacterial cells that may still be on the fruit. In the lab, the major studies also center around canker. We are looking at the chemical and microbial ecology of the lesion to find some way to break the production of more bacterial cells.
Anne Plotto, PhD Research Plant Physiologist RESEARCH: Dr. Plotto's research goals encompass production and storage of fruit and fruit products with high eating quality using sensory evaluation and flavor chemistry. Current projects include flavor and off flavor in orange juice from HLB affected trees; quality evaluation of citrus, strawberries and blueberries from the USDA, ARS and University of Florida breeding programs; development of storage techniques for whole and fresh-cut fruit to optimize storage and quality.
Wilbur Widmer, PhD Research Chemist RESEARCH: Dr. Widmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program focuses on the process of converting citrus waste to ethanol so that it can be economically feasible. In this process, limonene, a high value co-product, can be recovered from citrus peel, lowering the production costs. Dr. Widmer served on a study team that identified and established the substance in grapefruit juice that causes potentially dangerous interactions with specific medicines.
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UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF FOOD & AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES University of Florida/IFAS IRREC research programs fulfill the center’s mission to: conduct research to develop and disseminate new scientific knowledge and technology on commercial citrus, vegetable and ornamental crops, invasive plants and insects, and aquaculture which allow Florida agriculture to remain sustainable to the state’s economy, and to be compatible with the environment. Research at IFAS includes: • Aquaculture • Citrus Best Management Practices (BMPs) • Florida Agriculture Best Management Practices (BMPs) • Biological Control (BCRCL) • Environmental Horticulture • Post Harvest
FAST FACTS
8 BUILDINGS/14 GREENHOUSES 124,165 SQUARE FEET 82 TOTAL STAFF 704 ACRES
www.ifas.ufl.edu
Peter J. Stoffella, PhD Center Director
CONTACT INFORMATION 2199 S. Rock Road Fort Pierce, FL 34945-3138 Direct (772) 468-3922 x112 or x113 for Velma Spencer pjs@ufl.edu www.ifas.ufl.edu
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S. R Rock ock Rd.
Picos Rd. Kings Kin gs Hwy. Hwy. INTERSTATE INTERSTA ATE
95 9 5
Research rch Center Center R Rd. d.
FLORIDA’S FLORIDA’S TURNPIKE
obee Rd. cho e ch kee Ok
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Peter J. Stoffella, PhD Professor of Horticulture Department of Horticultural Sciences EDUCATION: PhD, Vegetable Crops, Cornell University Master’s, Horticulture, Kansas State University Bachelor’s, Horticulture, Delaware Valley College of Science and Agriculture RESEARCH Among Dr. Stoffella’s horticultural research interests, he established a research program on developing optimum compost utilization practices in commercial horticultural cropping systems. Specifically, Dr. Stoffella has interests in composts of biological weed controls, composts as peat substitutes for media used in transplant production systems, and composts as partial inorganic nutrient substitutes in field grown vegetable crop production systems. Recently, he developed a cooperative research program on utilization of compost in a vegetable cropping system as a mechanism of reducing nutrient leaching into ground water.
Ronald D. Cave, PhD Associate Professor of Entomology Department of Entomology and Nematology EDUCATION: PhD, Entomology, Auburn University Master’s, Entomology, University of California-Berkeley Bachelor’s, Entomology, University of California-Davis RESEARCH: Ron Cave joined the IRREC Faculty in 2002. He teaches two classes: Principles of Entomology, and Fundamentals of Pest Management. Dr. Cave's research focuses on the biological control of invasive arthropods, particularly the cycad aulacaspis scale and the Mexican bromeliad weevil. Dr. Cave's international experience includes work in Honduras, Paraguay, and El Salvador.
Barrett Gruber, PhD Assistant Professor of Citrus Horticulture Department of Horticulture EDUCATION: PhD, Plant Pathology, University of Wisconsin, 2009, Bachelor’s, Plant Biology-Environment Biology, Ohio University, 2004.
RESEARCH: Dr. Gruber is at this time building lasting research and extension collaborations with the Florida citrus community, especially with stakeholders in the Indian River region. Barrett Gruber joined the IRREC faculty in 2011. His experience with plant disease is extensive, having served as a research scientist for both the University of California and the University of Wisconsin.
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Zhenli (Lee) He, PhD Associate Professor of Soil and Water Science Department of Soil and Water Science EDUCATION: PhD, Soil & Environmental Chemistry, Zhejiang University Master’s, Soil Chemistry & Fertility, Zhejiang University Bachelor’s, Soil Science & Plant Nutrition, Zhejiang University
RESEARCH: Associate Professor of Soil and Water Sciences, Dr. He joined the IRREC Faculty as an Assistant Professor in 2004. His research interests include soil biogeochemistry of nutrients and contaminants, remediation of contaminated soil and water, citrus nutrition, management of nutrients, wastes, and water quality. He is currently teaching "Soil Quality" (SWS 6134) for graduates and "Agriculture and Environmental Quality" (ALS 3133) and "Soil Science Lab for the Environment" (SWS 3022L) for undergraduates.
Cortney L. Ohs, PhD Associate Professor of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences EDUCATION: PhD, 2003, Wildlife and Fisheries Science, Mississippi State University Masters, Wildlife and Fisheries Ecology, Mississippi State University Bachelor’s, Biology, Nebraska Wesleyan University RESEARCH: Dr. Ohs joined the IRREC faculty in July 2005. His research focuses on evaluating new management practices to maximize production or profitability of existing aquaculture operations and evaluating the potential of producing new aquaculture species. In addition, Dr. Ohs has conducted many studies on the nutrition of fish and crustacean species from larval to adult stages of development.
William A. Overholt, PhD Professor of Entomology Department of Entomology and Nematology EDUCATION: PhD, Entomology, Texas A&M University Bachelor’s, Agriculture, Ohio State University
RESEARCH: Bill Overholt joined the IRREC faculty in 2002. He has extensive international experience including 2 years in Peace Corps working with the Senegalese Plant Protection Service, 4 years in Mauritania with USAID, and 12 years at the International Center of Insect Physiology and Ecology in Nairobi, Kenya. The focus of Bill’s research program is biological control of invasive plants. His current work is focussed on Brazilian peppertree, Hydrilla verticillata, tropical soda apple and Phragmites australis, and involves foreign exploration, host range studies, and field release and evaluation of a biological control agents. SLCERC
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Charles A. Powell, PhD Professor of Plant Pathology Department of Plant Pathology EDUCATION: PhD, Botany, University of Nebraska Master’s, Botany, University of Nebraska Bachelor’s, Chemistry, Texas Lutheran College RESEARCH: Dr. Powell joined the IRREC Faculty in 1989. He serves the center as Associate Director and as a research professor. His work involves research on virus diseases of citrus and vegetables in Florida.
Mark A. Ritenour, PhD Associate Professor of Postharvest Physiology Department of Horticultural Sciences EDUCATION: PhD, Plant Biology, University of California, Davis Master’s, Vegetable Crops, University of California, Davis Bachelor’s, Botany, California State University, Fresno
RESEARCH: Dr. Ritenour joined the IRREC Faculty in 1998. His extension and research programs focus on the postharvest biology and handling of horticultural commodities (especially citrus). Dr. Ritenour's focus areas include: improving quality of fresh market citrus and vegetables through improved postharvest handling; improving postharvest sanitation and food safety practices of Florida's packinghouses; and improving postharvest quality of horticultural crops through better preharvest management practices.
Brian J. Boman, PhD Professor of Agricultural Engineering Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering EDUCATION: PhD, 1985, Agricultural & Irrigation Engineering, Utah State University
RESEARCH: Dr. Boman's work involves research and extension activities concerning water management within the citrus industry of Florida, especially in the Indian River production area. Focuses of research include irrigation and drainage systems, operation and maintenance of water management systems, citrus water use, fertigation, and foliar nutrient applications to enhance citrus fruit size. Dr. Boman has also been involved with developing solutions to environmental concerns in the Treasure Coast area of Florida, where he has been a leader in developing best management practices for citrus grown in areas with shallow water table. Other work includes characterizing runoff water from a variety of land use types and investigating effects of citrus water management and fertilization practices on surface and groundwater quality. SLCERC
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P. Chris Wilson, PhD Associate Professor of Environmental Toxicology Department of Soil and Water Science EDUCATION: PhD, 1999, Environmental Toxicology, Clemson University Master’s, Horticulture, Clemson University
RESEARCH: Dr. Wilson joined the IRREC Faculty in 1999 and is responsible for research and extension programs relating to the interface of agriculture with the environment. He is currently developing research and extension programs that focus on environmental risk identification and mitigation associated with nutrient and pesticide use within the Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie Estuary drainage basins. His current areas of emphasis include: characterization of agrichemical loadings in surface water from different land uses, bioremediation / phytoremediation of agrichemicals in contaminated surface water, characterization of pesticide impacts on aquatic resources, and evaluation of the environmental benefits of certain best management practices.
Sandra B. Wilson, PhD Professor of Environmental Horticulture Department of Environmental Horticulture EDUCATION: PhD, 1996, Plant Physiology, Clemson University Postdoctoral studies at both Clemson University and Chiba University, Japan. Master’s, Horticulture, University of Delaware Bachelor’s, Animal Science, University of Delaware RESEARCH: Dr. Sandra Wilson is a Professor of Environmental Horticulture at the University of Florida's Indian River Research and Education Center (IRREC) located in Fort Pierce. In collaboration with several colleagues, Dr. Wilson's research focuses on characterizing the invasive potential of ornamental plants, propagation of native plants, developing organic-based medium components for containerized ornamentals, roadside use of native wildflowers, and enhanced commercial selection and micropropagation of sea oats genotypes for dune stabilization. Her teaching and research programs have generated over $1.5 million in extramural grant funding and authorship of 57 refereed publications, 48 non-refereed publications and non-refereed trade journal articles and 61 abstracts.
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UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA IFAS EXTENSION ST. LUCIE COUNTY EXTENSION The function of the St. Lucie County Extension Office is to provide citizens of St. Lucie County with the most current research-based information available in the fields of citrus, livestock production, horticulture, family and consumer science, energy, housing efficiency and farm management. This is accomplished through various teaching methods and programs developed with the assistance of volunteers and advisory committees that are composed of representatives from all facets of the county’s population. Extension Outreach Programs • 4-H • Master Gardener • Master Naturalist • Family Nutrition Program
• Green Industry Best Management Practice • Citrus Best Management Practice • Small Farm
FAST FACTS
3 BUILDINGS/1 NURSERY 28,500 SQUARE FEET 11 TOTAL STAFF 10 ACRES
stlucie.ifas.ufl.edu
Anita S. Neal Center Director
CONTACT INFORMATION 8400 Picos Road, Suite 101 Fort Pierce, FL 34981 772-462-1660 Phone asn@ufl.edu www.stlucie.ifas.ufl.edu
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S. Rock Rd.
Picos Rd. Kings Hwy. INTERSTATE
95
Research Center Rd.
FLORIDA’S TURNPIKE
. Okeechobee Rd
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Anita S. Neal Environmental Horticulture EDUCATION: Master’s of Agriculture, Education/Communication, University of Florida Bachelor’s, Biology, State University of New York
OUTREACH Anita Neal began her Extension career in 1995; she has a BA from State University of New York, Masters of Agriculture from the University of Florida, and is currently working on a PhD. in Entomology with the University of Florida. She has designed, delivered and evaluated educational programs for volunteers, homeowners, and youth. She provides leadership for 5 faculty members at St. Lucie County Extension and administrative oversight of the Oxbow Eco-Center.
Susan J. Munyan Extension Faculty, 4-H/Agriculture EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Marketing, Utica College of Syracuse University
OUTREACH: Susan Munyan began her Extension career in 1987. Susan’s main program areas are Adult Volunteer Development, 4-H Youth Development and 4-H School Enrichment. She has designed, delivered and evaluated educational programs for 4-H adult volunteers and 4-H youth between the ages of 5 –18 with a learn-by-doing approach. Susan provides leadership to over 50 direct volunteers.
Karla Lenfesty Extension Faculty, Family and Consumer Sciences Family Nutrition Program Coordinator EDUCATION: Bachelor’s, Education, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL
OUTREACH: Karla Lenfesty began her Extension career in 2005; she has a BS from Southern Illinois University, and is currently working on a Master of Agriculture in Agriculture Sciences with Colorado State University. Her education program areas include Sustainable Housing and Home Environment, Food Safety, and Nutrition and Health. She manages the UF/IFAS/SLC Windstorm Damage Mitigation Training and Demonstration Center, supervises two program assistants and coordinates the UF/USDA Family Nutrition Program. SLCERC
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Ken T. Gioeli Extension Faculty, Natural Resources EDUCATION: Master’s of Agriculture, Education/Communication, University of Florida Bachelor’s, Secondary Science Education Specializing in Biology, University of Central Florida
OUTREACH: Ken Gioeli began his Extension career in St Lucie County in 1993. He designs, conducts and evaluates Extension programs in the areas of pesticide applicator training and natural resource management. He specializes in water quality, quantity and conservation of natural water bodies; wildlife management; and invasive species management.
Timothy Gaver Extension Faculty, Citrus EDUCATION: Master’s of Agriculture, Horticulture Science, University of Florida Bachelor’s, Fruit Crops, University of Florida
OUTREACH: Tim Gaver develops comprehensive programs to assist sustainable and profitable citrus production in St. Lucie County. These educational programs will contain subject matter including best management practices, plant nutrition, integrated pest management programs for citrus insects and diseases and irrigation and drainage water management.
Edward Skvarch Extension Faculty, Commercial Horticulture EDUCATION: Master’s of Agriculture, Education/Communication, University of Florida Bachelor’s, Organizational Management, Warner Southern College
OUTREACH: Ed Skvarch works directly with the ornamental nursery and landscape industries providing educational programs in the areas of pesticide training, nursery management and landscape Best Management Practices. He also provides guidance to local farmers in the area of protected agriculture and business marketing.
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TRADITION CENTER FOR INNOVATION strategically located between scientific bases in Orlando and West Palm Beach, TCI provides the cornerstone for a growing region that is quickly attracting international attention and the world's best bio-tech scientists.
The Tradition Center for Innovation in Port St. Lucie is a +/- 150 acre site located at the southwest corner of Interstate 95 and Tradition Parkway. As proposed it will feature 650,000 sq.ft. of research and development, 200,000 sq.ft. of medical and office, 80,000 sq.ft. of restaurant and retail, a 300 bed hospital, and 300 hotel rooms. The Tradition Center for Innovation (TCI) is a 150 acre research park under development in the 8,300 - acre master-planned community of Tradition in Port St. Lucie, Florida. Uniquely and
The park is anchored by the new 107,000 sq. ft. headquarters of the Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies (TPIMS), which opened in early 2009. In addition to TPIMS, Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute of Florida (VGTI) opened their 100,000 square-foot complex in February 2012. Mann Research Center, a proposed six-building, 410,000 sq. ft. life sciences complex adjacent to both facilities will be soon be joining the Martin Health System’s new Tradition Medical Center Phase I, 90 bed hospital currently under construction. In addition to an existing Homewood Suites by Hilton Hotels an additional hotel, restaurants and support retail are also planned.
RESEARCH INSTITUTES • • • •
Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies VGTI Florida Mann Research Center Martin Health System
650,000 SQ FT OF R&D 20,000 SQ FT MEDICAL & OFFICE 150 ACRES
www.tciflorida.com
James H. Anderson and Wes McCurry
CONTACT INFORMATION 10489 SW Meeting Street Port St. Lucie, FL 34987 Phone: (772) 340-3500
www.traditionfl.com
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INTERSTATE INTERST ATE
95 9 5 SW Community S W Comm munity Bou Boulevard levard d
SW Village Village Pkwy. Pkwy.
SW S W Gatlin Blvd.
Way covery SW Dis
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TORREY PINES INSTITUTE FOR MOLECULAR STUDIES Torrey Pines' scientists conduct research in fields associated with a wide variety of major medical conditions, including multiple sclerosis, cancer, heart disease, Types I and II diabetes, macular degeneration, pain management, Alzheimer’s, inflammatory disorders, AIDS and other infectious diseases, regenerative medicine, obesity, transplant rejection, muscle wasting syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis and new methods for drug discovery. Techniques Created By Torrey Pines Institute: • Individual compounds arrays • Mixture-based synthetic combinatorial libraries • Positional scanning deconvolution • Biometrical analysis • Libraries from libraries • Small molecule and heterocyclic compounds • Direct in vivo testing of mixtures
FAST FACTS
1 BUILDINGS 107,000 SQUARE FEET 200 TOTAL STAFF www.tpims.org
20 ACRES
Richard A. Houghten President & Founder
CONTACT INFORMATION 11350 SW Village Parkway Port St. Lucie, FL 34987 Phone (772) 345-4800 rhoughten@tpims.org www.tpims.org
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INTERSTATE INTERST ATE T
95 9 5 S SW W Comm Community munity Bou Boulevard levard d
SW Village Village Pkwy. Pkwy.
SW S W Gatlin Blvd.
Way covery SW Dis
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Richard A. Houghten, PhD President & Founder EDUCATION: PhD, Organic Chemistry, University of California at Berkeley Master’s, Organic Chemistry, University of California at Berkeley Bachelor’s, Chemistry, California State University at Fresno
RESEARCH: Dr. Houghten has published more than 500 papers and won multiple awards, including the Vincent du Vigneaud Award for Excellence in Peptide Science. He pioneered the “tea bag” approach to peptide synthesis, which has fueled the cost-efficient creation of millions of new peptides and compounds.
Christopher Armishaw, PhD Assistant Member Medicinal Chemistry EDUCATION: PhD, Biological Chemistry, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia Bachelor’s, Chemistry,The University of Melbourne, Australia RESEARCH: Molecules isolated from venomous marine cone snails can be used to discover new drug leads for pain management and the treatment of chronic pain, depression and drug addiction. By introducing subtle modifications to key conotoxins that target a particular receptor, we can further refine their biological properties to develop more effective drugs with fewer side effects than present options.
Dmitriy Minond, PhD Assistant Member Cancer Research Lead Discovery EDUCATION: PhD, Chemistry and Biochemistry. Florida Atlantic University Master’s, Biology and Biochemistry. Odessa State University, Odessa, Ukraine RESEARCH: Dr. Minond studies the role of ADAM family metalloproteases in cancer progression. His program includes discovering and/or developing small molecule selective probes/leads and utilization of these molecules in cell based studies in order to discover potential drug candidates.
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Colette Dooley, PhD Assistant Member Pain Management EDUCATION: PhD, Chemistry, University of California Master’s, Zoology, Univ. College Dublin, Ireland Bachelor’s, Zoology, Univ. College Dublin, Ireland RESEARCH: Dr. Dooley uses her training in combinatorial libraries and fluorescent imaging to research new methods for pain relief, addiction and food regulation, and investigates cells' response to stresses which may lead to a better understanding of pain management, chronic pain, addiction, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
Marc Giulianotti Director of Chemistry Operations EDUCATION: Master’s, Information Technology, San Diego State University Bachelor’s, Chemistry/Bio-chemistry, University of California
RESEARCH: Mr. Giulianotti’s research focuses on identifying potential human therapeutics and diagnostics as well as agricultural treatments. The research group combines novel approaches in combinatorial chemistry, computer-aided drug design and mathematics. The research group is currently involved in a number of different interdisciplinary projects with internal and external collaborators focusing in areas such as pain management, cancer, obesity, stroke and citrus greening.
Greg Welmaker, PhD Scientific Assistant to the President Director of Drug Discovery EDUCATION: Master’s Pharmaceutical Management, Lebow College of Business, Drexel University PhD, Philosophy, Organic Chemistry, University of South Carolina Bachelor’s, Chemistry, Cum laude, Furman University RESEARCH: Dr. Welmaker is an experienced medicinal chemist having worked in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry for over 15 years. During this time, he led teams in both the early and late stages of drug discovery. At Torrey Pines Institute, he continues to utilize these experiences to help identify new compounds suitable for advancement into human clinical trials.
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Gregg Fields, PhD Full Member Director of Research EDUCATION: PhD, Chemistry, Florida State University (FSU) Bachelor’s, Chemistry, University of Florida Associate’s, Chemistry, Broward Community College RESEARCH: Dr. Fields research interests are in extracellular matrix biochemistry, synthetic protein design and construction, proteases of the extracellular matrix, cancer chemical biology, biomimetic biomaterials for drug delivery, tumor cell biology/signal transduction, and solid-phase peptide synthesis methodology.
Lawrence Toll, PhD Full Member Director of Neuropharmacology EDUCATION: PhD, Biological Chemistry, UCLA Bachelor’s, Chemistry, University of California
RESEARCH: Dr. Lawrence Toll’s research focuses on the management of pain and drug addiction through pharmacology and new drug discovery. His basic research on opioid and NOP systems, and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, as well as his identification and characterization of endogenous neuropeptides, have opened new avenues of research and identified novel drug targets. In collaboration with medicinal chemists, Dr. Toll seeks to explore basic mechanisms and the biochemical basis of chronic pain and drug addiction, and to identify novel medications for both disorders.
Madepalli Lakshmana, PhD Associate Member Neurobiology EDUCATION: PhD, Neurophysiology, National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences, Bangalore, India Master’s, Neurophysiology, National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences, Bangalore, India Master’s, Zoology, Bangalore University, Jnana Bharathi, India Bachelor’s, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Bangalore University, Bangalore, India RESEARCH: The primary research interest of my group is to understand molecular mechanism for the reduced synaptic connections in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) leading to loss of memory, a seminal feature of AD. AD is characterized by the presence of intracellular neurofibrillary tangles and extracellular amyloid plaques believed to be responsible for loss of synapses. The long-term objective of my research is to discover molecular targets which may modulate generation of amyloid beta peptide (Ab), the core constituent of amyloid plaques. SLCERC
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Mare Cudic, PhD Assistant Member Glycobiology EDUCATION: PhD, Organic Chemistry, University of Zagreb, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Zagreb, Croatia Master’s, Organic Chemistry, University of Zagreb, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Bachelor’s, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science, Zagreb, Croatia RESEARCH: Dr. Mare Cudic conducts research in the fields of cancer, obesity-linked diseases and drug delivery systems. Her cancer research targets the cell-surface carbohydrates and their binding proteins (lectins) to suppress metastasis. Dr. Cudic’s drug delivery studies use liposome-based nanomedicine to deliver anticancer drugs. In addition, Dr. M. Cudic investigates the role of adiponectin in suppressing type 2 diabetes, obesity, and atherosclerosis.
Karina Martínez Mayorga, PhD Assistant Member Conformational Analysis PhD, Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry. National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico. Bachelor’s, Major Food Chemistry, National Autonomous University of Mexico,
RESEARCH: Dr. Martínez-Mayorga focuses on the development of structural models by computational and spectroscopic techniques to aid in the design of new compounds that may be used to treat disease. Some of the computational methods employed in our research group are: conformational analysis, molecular similarity searching, ligand-based virtual screening, quantum chemical calculations, and molecular dynamics simulations.
Predrag Cudic, PhD Associate Member Bioorganic Chemistry
EDUCATION: PhD, Organic Chemistry, University of Zagreb, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Zagreb, Croatia Bachelor’s, Science, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science, Zagreb, Croatia RESEARCH: Dr. Cudic's primary research interest is in the broadly defined field of bioorganic chemistry. His current research includes the design and preparation of multifunctional nanomedicine systems for effective cancer treatment, and novel drug discovery based on nonribosomal peptide natural products.
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Jay McLaughlin, PhD Associate Member Pharmacology and Neuroscience EDUCATION: PhD, Neuroscience, University of Rochester, School of Medicine & Dentistry, Master’s, Neuroscience, University of Rochester, School of Medicine & Dentistry, Bachelor’s, Biology, University of California at Santa Cruz
RESEARCH: Dr. McLaughlin’s research is focused on pain management. Specifically, he is examining the neurobiological basis of behavior, focusing on the molecular, pharmacological and neurological mechanisms underlying behavioral and psychological disorders. Since establishing his own laboratory, his work has examined the interactions of stress-induced endogenous opioids (e.g., endorphins and dynorphins) and hormones with reward pathways, and the resultant behavioral consequences in animal models of mood disorders, learning and memory, and drug abuse.
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Yangmei Li, PhD Senior Scientist Chemistry EDUCATION: PhD, Chemistry, Zhejiang University, China Bachelor’s, Chemistry, Hangzhou University, China
RESEARCH: : Dr. Li’s interest focuses on the development of new methodologies for the synthesis of bioactive compounds, particularly cyclic peptides and heterocyclic compounds. I am also interested in developing novel ‘volatilizable’ supports for organic synthesis. My current research interest is total synthesis of natural cyclic peptides (cyclic depsipeptides) and their analogs for targeting different diseases including bacteria resistance, cancer, inflammation, and pain.
Adel Nefzi, PhD Associate Member Director of Chemistry EDUCATION: PhD, Organic Chemistry, University of Lausanne, Switzerland. Bachelor’s, Chemistry, University of Lausanne, Switzerland.
RESEARCH: The central focus of Dr. Nefzi’s work is the development of efficient approaches to the synthesis of novel small molecule and macrocyclic compounds. All of the libraries prepared are being made available to the scientific community through the Institute Biological Outreach Program for the identification of new hits as first steps of an optimal “design and selection” process for lead optimization for the development of new pain management, cancer, tuberculosis and antimicrobial drugs.
Jose Luis Medina-Franco, PhD Assistant Member Computer Aided Drug Design EDUCATION: PhD, Chemistry, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico Master’s, Chemistry, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Bachelor’s, Chemistry, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), RESEARCH: Dr. Medina-Franco's research focuses on computer-aided drug design. The research group conducts virtual screening of large compound databases to identify novel compounds directed to targets associated with the treatment of cancer, HIV/AIDS and other diseases.
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VACCINE AND GENE THERAPY INSTITUTE (VGTI) VGTI Florida is a leading non-profit immunological research institute on an urgent mission to transform scientific discoveries into novel cures and treatments for chronic human diseases and inflammation. The Institute’s main areas of focus are infectious disease immunology, cancer immunology, inflammation and aging. VGTI Florida scientists are identifying treatments and therapies that can be readily used in human clinical trials and are helping to change the lives of millions of people afflicted with the world's most devastating diseases. Research teams at the institute have contributed to significant advances against melanoma, breast cancer, prostate cancer, yellow fever and dengue fever. Chief Scientific Director, Dr. Rafick-Pierre Sékaly, one of the world’s leading scientists in human immunology, immunotherapy and AIDS research, has led more than 10 clinical trials aimed at enhancing
the immune response in patients with cancer and HIV. VGTI Florida has formed research collaborations with local organizations such as Martin Health Systems, Moffit Cancer Center, and the University of Miami.
FAST FACTS
1 BUILDING 100,000 SQUARE FEET 85+ STAFF www.vgtifl.org
8 ACRES Jay A. Nelson, PhD Executive Director & Vice President
CONTACT INFORMATION 9801 SW Discovery Way Port St. Lucie, FL 34987 Phone: (772) 345-VGTI (8484) infosec@vgtifl.org www.vgtifl.org
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INTERSTATE INTERST ATE
95 9 5 S SW W Comm Community munity Bou Boulevard levard d
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Rafick-Pierre Sékaly, PhD Co-Director & Scientific Director EDUCATION: PhD, Biochemistry, University of Lausanne in Switzerland Post-doctoral fellowship in immunogenetics and molecular biology at the University of Lausanne. Master’s, Immunology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC (Canada) Bachelor’s, Biological Sciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC (Canada) RESEARCH: Rafick-Pierre Sékaly, PhD, one of the world’s leading scientists in AIDS research, human immunology and immunotherapy, is co-director and scientific director of VGTI Florida. Dr. Sékaly’s work has lead to a generation of novel approaches to cancer and HIV vaccines, and recognition that his team is on the cusp of finding a possible cure for HIV infection.
John Hiscott, PhD Full Member EDUCATION: PhD, Medical Sciences, New York University Medical Center, Post-doctoral training at the Roche Institute in New Jersey, and the Institute for Molecular Biology at the University of Zurich in Switzerland. Master’s, Virology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada Bachelor’s, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Western Ontario RESEARCH: John Hiscott, PhD, a world-renowned molecular biologist and virologist, is a principal investigator and full member of VGTI Florida. Dr. Hiscott’s work has focused on the innate immune response to infectious diseases, cancer and AIDS. His work has provided major contributions to the understanding of the immune system’s response to viruses such as hepatitis C, influenza and HIV.
Elias K. Haddad, PhD Associate Member EDUCATION: PhD, Immunology, McGill University Post-doctoral work at the National Cancer Institute & National Institutes of Health. Master’s, Immunology, American University of Beirut Bachelor’s, Biological Sciences, American University of Beirut RESEARCH: Elias K. Haddad, PhD, is an associate member and principal investigator of the VGTI Florida . He’s an expert in viral disease development, and studies the immediate and long-term human immune response to chronic and emerging infectious diseases. His work has resulted in more than 20 articles published in major scientific journals. Dr. Haddad is recognized as a pioneer in systems biology, a field which focuses on the complex interactions in biological systems using an inter-disciplinary approach.
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-Lydie Trautmann, PhD Assistant Member EDUCATION: PhD, Immunology, University of Paris Post-doctoral training at the University of Montreal. Master’s, Biotechnology, Louis Pasteur University, Strasbourg, France Master’s, Biotechnology Engineering, Strasbourg Graduate School of Biotechnology Bachelor’s, Biological Sciences, Louis Pasteur University, Strasbourg, France RESEARCH: Lydie Trautmann, PhD, is an assistant member and principal investigator at the Vaccine & Gene Therapy Institute of Florida. She’s an expert in the role of immune cells that kill infected cells thereby controlling virus infections. She is also actively involved in defining how chronic viral infections result in immune dysfunction. Her work has been published in 20 articles in scientific journals.
Nicolas Chomont, PhD Assistant Member EDUCATION: PhD, Virology, University of Paris Post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Montreal. Master’s, Biochemistry, University of Paris Bachelor’s, Biological Sciences, University of Paris
RESEARCH: Nicolas Chomont, PhD, is an assistant member and a principal investigator at the VGTI Florida . He is an internationally recognized scientist who specializes in HIV and AIDS research. His work has contributed to advancements in the understanding of how HIV infections persist, despite effective anti-HIV medications wiping out detectable levels of the virus – an important step in eradicating the disease.
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MANN RESEARCH CENTER Mann Research Center is a distinguished life sciences and medical office developer whose history of success spans from coast to coast. In affiliation with renowned biomedical engineer, Alfred Mann, and with current operations in California, Connecticut, and Florida, Mann Research Center holds an unparalleled record of experience. Involved in all capacities of acquisition, planning, design, construction, operation, property management, and real estate, the Mann Research Team has the expertise to provide owners and occupants with the ultimate in facilities for medical offices and research and development. The proximity of our medical office buildings to the medical center will provide physicians, patients, and visitors direct access to hospital facilities by way of a connected lobby and the entrance.
6 BUILDINGS 410,000 SQUARE FEET 22 ACRES
www.mannresearchcenter.com
CONTACT INFORMATION
Andy Favata Vice President
10490 SW Village Center Dr Port St. Lucie, FL 34987 Phone: (561) 317-6621 andy@tciflorida.org www.mannresearchcenter.com
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95 9 5 SW SW Community Comm munity Boulevard Boulevard d
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MARTIN HEALTH SYSTEM TRADITION MEDICAL CENTER Martin Health System is a not-for-profit, community-based health care organization that has served the region for more than 70 years. It offers a continuum of care including preventative, primary and acute hospital care, as well as cancer and cardiac care, wellness and rehabilitation services. Its approximately 3,000 Associates, 375 affiliated physicians and 900 volunteers provide care at 12 different locations serving Martin and St. Lucie counties. Martin Health is a six-time winner of the Thomson Reuters 100 Top Hospitals Award, has twice been named a Thomson Reuters 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals award winner, and received designation as a National Employer of Choice designee for 2009 and 2010-11.
FAST FACTS
400 DOCTORS 201,184 SQUARE FEET 344 PATIENT BEDS www.martinhealth.org
20 ACRES
Mark E. Robitaille President and CEO
CONTACT INFORMATION 10490 SW Village Center Dr Port St. Lucie, FL 34987 Phone (772) 287-5200 www.martinhealth.org
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95 9 5 SW Community S W Comm munity Boulevard Bou levard d
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EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION • St. Lucie Public Schools • Colleges & Universities
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ST. LUCIE PUBLIC SCHOOLS St. Lucie County Public Schools instructional leaders are dedicated to providing rigorous and relevant learning in each school throughout the district that will ultimately yield successful graduates. St. Lucie County’s budding transformation of identity as Florida’s Treasure/Research Coast casts the spotlight on public education and the importance of a top-quality educational system as a strategic component of this emergence. The St. Lucie County School District and its instructional leaders are dedicated to providing rigorous and relevant learning in each school throughout the district that will ultimately yield successful graduates; fully prepared to continue their education or begin a career in our local workforce.
St. Lucie County school district includes 6 highschools, 3 middleschools, 10 K-8 schools, 18 elementary schools, 2 charter schools and 2 alternative schools
41 SCHOOLS* 40,876 PUBLIC STUDENTS * 37 PUBLIC, 2 CHARTER, & 2 ALTERNATIVE SCHOOLS
www.stlucie.k12.fl.us
MICHAEL J. LANNON
CONTACT INFORMATION
Superintendent
4204 Okeechobee Rd. Fort Pierce, Fl. 34947 Phone: (772) 429-3600 Tammy Feller, Assistant Phone: (772) 429-3925
www.stlucie.k12.fl.us
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COLLEGES Indian River State College links Indian River, Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties with five campuses and serves over 32,000 area residents annually. Throughout their 50 year history, Indian River State College has offered educational programs that directly respond to community needs. Through partnerships with businesses, community organizations, schools and universities, IRSC stays tuned to career trends and economic opportunities to develop programs that train area residents for a rewarding future. The College's programs are offered within easy driving distance at five campuses, with over 200 convenient online courses. Tuition is affordable and IRSC students benefit from many financial aid opportunities.
Dr. Ed Massey, PhD
VISIT
President
www.irsc.edu
INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE BROWN CENTER FOR INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP IRSCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 65,000 sq ft alternative energy center with a focus on assisting entrepreneurs and offering attractive business opportunities in the green industry and other emerging fields such as nanotechnology, photonics and robotics.
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UNIVERSITIES Florida Atlantic University, founded in 1961, is currently serving more than 29,000 undergraduate and graduate students at sites throughout its six-county service region in southeast Florida. The University’s student body, which ranks as the most ethnically and culturally diverse in Florida's State University System, includes many men and women of non-traditional age. Long known as an outstanding teaching institution, FAU is undergoing rapid development as a center of cutting-edge research, particularly in the biomedical arena. This process has been accelerated by the University’s partnerships with four internationally known biomedical research organizations, the Scripps Research Institute, the Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, the Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies and the Max Planck Society. Additionally, FAU's Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine recently welcomed its inaugural class. Mary Jane Saunders, PhD President
VISIT
Arthur Keiser, PhD
Keiser University has had a presence in Port St. Lucie for over 12 years and currently serves 900 students at its two local campus locations Main Campus in Port St. Lucie and Keiser University College of Golf. Keiser University is a not-for-profit, private university serving nearly 18,000 students pursuing doctoral through associate degrees on 14 campuses and employing nearly 3,500 staff and faculty throughout Florida and internationally. Sixty two percent of KU students graduate in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and healthcare fields, providing the talented workforce necessary for Florida to compete globally. Keiser University's educational reach extends globally through its international programs including the Latin Division, a cooperative agreement in the Eastern European nation of Moldova, and a campus in Shanghai, China.
Chancellor
Dr. Jack Payne, PhD Senior Vice President
www.fau.edu
VISIT
www.keiseruniversity.edu
The University of Florida’s Indian River Research and Education Center is part of the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF / IFAS) statewide effort to provide teaching, research and extension services to Florida’s people. With an emphasis in agriculture and natural resources, the center is part of the university’s mission to enhance and sustain the quality of life for Floridians by making information accessible and by providing services to agricultural industries and to homeowners. While extending into every community of the state, UF/ IFAS has developed an international reputation for its accomplishments. Because of this mission and the diversity of Florida’s climate and agricultural commodities, IFAS has facilities located throughout Florida, including extension services serving every county and 14 research and education centers such as the Indian River Research and Education Center, situated just outside of Fort Pierce.
Agriculture & Natural Resources
VISIT
University of Florida (IFAS) SLCERC
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www.ifas.ufl.edu
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CIVIC, BUSINESS RESOURCES AND AMENITIES
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ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FLORIDA
St. Lucie Board of County Commissioners ( Left to Right) Tod Mowery, Paula Lewis, Chris Dzadovsky, Frannie Hutchinson, & Chris Craft
Located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, “Green certified” St. Lucie County serves as the research epicenter on Florida’s Treasure Coast with a progressive focus on forming strategic partnerships aimed at building a sustainable economy. QUALITY LEADERSHIP
The St. Lucie County Incentive Program includes the following:
The St. Lucie Board of County Commissioners works hard to recruit new businesses and assist existing businesses expand their operations - big or small. St. Lucie County offers a number of meaningful incentives, a pro-b-usiness climate and can-do attitude. St. Lucie County has developed an incentive package that has produced results time and again - and that have helped businesses like the Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Digital Domain Studios, Tropicana, Liberty Medical, PGA of America, Wal-Mart Distribution and QVC locate or expand their operations in St. Lucie County.
— Visit: www.stlucieco.gov
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Ad Valorem Tax Exemptions for St. Lucie County property taxes Job Growth Investment Grants (JGIG) Impact Fee Credit Agreements An expedited site plan and building permit process
Since 2000, St. Lucie County has awarded incentives to 23 businesses which has helped spur the creation of over new 3500 jobs. The EDC/St. Lucie County partnership has perfected the implementation of these program incentives and will be happy to discuss how your new or expanding business may benefit. 2012 YEARBOOK
Discover the boundless business opportunities found in St. Lucie County, one of the nation’s best places to grow. Here, innovation and inspiration are driven by the unsurpassed lifestyle of this peaceful paradise, found at the heart of Southeast Florida’s acclaimed Treasure Coast. STATISTICAL PROFILES OF THE CITIES WITHIN THE COUNTY'S BOUNDARIES. FORT PIERCE is one of the oldest communities on the east coast of Florida. Incorporated in 1901, the city grew from 200 residents to over 41,590 (2010 Census) and encompasses over 20 square miles. Fort Pierce serves as transportation hub for much of Florida's southeastern coast - all the while maintaining and investing in its historic charm. Fort Pierce features a major intersection of the Florida Turnpike and I-95, rail lines, a seaport, an airport and a Foreign Trade Zone. As such, it has become a key distribution point for the region and the state.
— Visit: www.cityoffortpierce.com PORT ST. LUCIE incorporated in 1961, has quickly risen to prominence as a place of rapid growth matched with an exceptional quality of life. Port St. Lucie was Florida's fastest growing city in 2005, with an 11% population increase between 2004 and 2005. With a population of 164,603 (2010 Census) It boasts a wide array of business developments, as well as recreational amenities including the renowned PGA Village and New York Mets Spring Training. In 2004, Port St. Lucie also ranked as the 2nd safest city in Florida and the 24th safest city in the United States in a national study- making it an even safer business decision.
— Visit: www.cityofpsl.com
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Ecomonic Development Council of St. Lucie County (EDC) maintains demographic, industry and education databases with the most current available data. Our County is richly endowed with a great working relationship between area business and civic leaders. There is significant synergy between our governmental agencies working together with our area school administrations at all levels to help the family relocation proces s for new businesses coming into our area. All of those parties work in conjunction with the business community to promote unity and cooperation.
— Visit: www.youredc.com
ST. LUCIE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: Your Chamber is a diverse organization of people in business like you. By prominently displaying your member decal and your Chamber plaque, you set an example to your employees and all who enter your business that you actively support and invest in the future growth and prosperity of the business community.
— Visit: www.stluciechamber.org SLCERC
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Find your gateway to sport fishing paradise via the Fort Pierce Inlet and on the Indian River Lagoon… where permit, tarpon, jack, snook, trout, grouper, snapper, cobia, sailfish, dolphin, wahoo, kingfish, tuna and
TRAVEL AND AMENITIES a r x Orlando - 2 Hours International Airport
As the jewel of the Treasure Coast, St. Lucie features the historic city of Fort Pierce, the beautiful city of Port St. Lucie, and the tranquil beaches of Hutchinson Island.
Easily accessible from Interstate 95 and the Florida Turnpike, St. Lucie is conveniently located between Palm Beach and r x a Melbourne - 1 Hour Orlando on Florida’s east coast, along International Airport 21 miles of Atlantic Ocean beachfront. St. Lucie County is an eco-haven. Together we have protected 11,000 acres, supporting numerous threatened a r x a Palm Beach- 1 Hour and endangered plant and animal International Airport species. Enjoy hiking, kayaking, biking, bird watching and more on these undisturbed preserves. Learn about St. Lucie’s many first-class golf courses, such as the award-winning PGA Country Club. a r x Ft. Lauderdale - 2 Hours International Airport
swordfish all bite at different times of the year. With great year-round weather and a multitude of venues, St. Lucie is an ideal sports destination. Digital Domain Park is the spring training home of the New York Mets and home to the minor league St. Lucie Mets. A new, exciting addition to St. Lucie’s heritage is the lifeboat used in the Maersk Alabama hijacking, where Captain Phillips was held hostage by Somali pirates for a few tense days until three deadly accurate shots from U.S. Navy SEALs freed him. See this lifeboat at the world’s only National Navy UDT- SEAL Museum on Hutchinson Island. St. Lucie was home to world renowned painter A.E. Backus and the Florida Highwaymen artists. Explore their galleries and many others, or strap on a pair of walking shoes to enjoy the arts in public places throughout the county. Enjoy the performing arts at the Sunrise Theatre or walk along famous author Zora Neale Hurston Dust Tracks Heritage Trail – including stops at her home and final resting place.
Public Courses include Fairwinds Golf Course, The Saints Golf Course in Port St. Lucie, and Indian Hills Country Club in Fort Pierce. SLCERC
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— Visit: www.visitstluciefla.com
2012 YEARBOOK
The St. Lucie Education & Research Coalition would like to thank all of the participating institutions in this publication and the St. Lucie County Media Relations for their contribution.
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Treasure Coast Research Park.com
M ove to a C l i m a t e o f I n n o v a t i o n
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Join the world class agriculture and biotechnology focused research resources of University of Florida IFAS and United States Department of Agriculture/ARS in Fort Pierce, FL.
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U.S. Department of Agricultur Agriculture e
University of Florida Institute of Food & Agricultural and Sciences
For leasing inquiries or for mor more e infor information mation Please call 772-467-3107 or visit
www.TreasureCoastResearchPark.com www .TreasureCoastResearchPark.com