Greater Albuquerque continues to distinguish itself as one of the nation’s most dynamic bioscience hubs, home to more than 20,100 jobs in 2024, over three times the national average for a region of its size. This ecosystem is fueled by a deep well of scientific talent, world-class research institutions, and a growing network of innovative companies advancing life-changing technologies.
At the heart of the cluster is Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences, employing more than 15,000 professionals with a remarkable 10% growth since 2020, representing a concentration over ten times greater than the national average. Supporting sectors such as Medical Laboratories also continue to expand, up 4% since 2020 and employing workers at more than two and a half times the national average, underscoring the region’s specialization in diagnostics and applied science.
Anchored by regional leaders such as Lovelace Biomedical, UNM Health Sciences, Curia, and TriCore Reference Laboratories, Greater Albuquerque’s bioscience cluster benefits from a varied ecosystem of clinical research, pharmaceutical development, and testing infrastructure. From 2020-2024, New Mexico institutions received over $604 million in NIH awards, with $520 million directed to entities within Albuquerque, highlighting the city’s central role in national research and discovery.
This innovation economy is driven by a young, highly skilled workforce, with nearly 70% of employees in their prime working years (25–54). In 2024, the cluster generated $3.8 billion in Gross Regional Product, up from $2.78 billion in 2020.
With strong momentum, a collaborative research culture, and competitive cost advantages, Greater Albuquerque is not only sustaining bioscience growth, it’s redefining what’s possible in the Southwest.