What is JAX—Florida, and why is it being proposed?
JAX—Florida would be a nonprofit institute that would conduct genomics research consistent with the Laboratory’s mission of improving human health. The Jackson Laboratory would build on its 81 years of experience in genetic research to create a world center for discovering and understanding the multiple, complex genetic interactions that are associated with diseases. The initial research would likely focus on cancer and neurodegeneration. JAX—Florida would be the anchor tenant in a larger research park dedicated to medical research, teaching, and practice. Technological advances are enabling faster and cheaper new forms of genetic sequencing that provide a detailed map of an individual’s unique makeup, called the “genome.” Based on this information, physicians are increasingly able to guide an individual’s healthcare based on his or her specific genetic composition. Increased wellness, improved treatment, and decreased costs are anticipated results. Pricewaterhouse Coopers reports that
