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Applied Sciences

Breakthroughs That Change the World

Our universities and colleges combine decades of discovery with an engineering mindset, turning research into solutions that address today’s most pressing challenges and tomorrow’s emerging needs.

In the Research Triangle, Chapel Hill delivers the resources and talent to build practical solutions — whether your business operates in environmental science, advanced materials, biotech, AI, or any field requiring extensive research and testing. From AI-powered cell manufacturing platforms transforming human cell production to solar power companies bringing energy solutions to developing communities, our town stays on the precipice of next.

Top 15

Colleges for Environmental Science in America (Duke & UNC)

Niche, 2026
158

Invention Disclosures at UNC-Chapel Hill in FY 2025

UNC-Chapel Hill
$6.2 Billion

In Funding to NC Bioeconomy Companies Since 2020

North Carolina Biotechnology Center

Applied Sciences Quick Links

UNC-Chapel Hill Applied Sciences

UNC Applied Physical Sciences advances industry-relevant research and partnerships, providing a central hub for cutting-edge science, talent, and applied innovation.

Visit UNC Applied Sciences

Duke Pratt School of Engineering

Less than 20 minutes away, Duke University’s Pratt School of Engineering produces a pipeline engineering expertise with a creative, collaborative mindset.

Visit Duke

Durham Tech Health & Wellness

Connect with skilled, career-ready professionals that bring practical, hands-on training to support your health-focused operations.

Visit Durham Tech

Innovate Carolina

Learn about UNC-Chapel Hill’s innovation community and the future leaders developing solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.

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NC Biotechnology Center

Tap into North Carolina’s biotech ecosystem for funding, talent, and research partnerships that help Chapel Hill companies grow and commercialize faster.

Access Funding & Lab Space

Let’s Talk Talent

Have a specific hiring need? Contact us to discuss a variety of workforce programs that support Chapel Hill employment and have helped dozens of businesses find in-demand talent.

“...We’re aligning our growth trajectory with a world-class talent pool, a thriving innovation ecosystem, and a community that shares our values around sustainability, technology, and education.”

Our Businesses are Focused on Improving Lives

Applied Science Businesses

Want to become part of a community focused on practical applications? From cognitive assessment companies to cell therapy firms, our businesses turn groundbreaking research into real-world solutions that save and improve lives.

iOrganBio (opens in new tab)
Cortical Metrics (opens in new tab)
Intero Life Sciences (opens in new tab)
Tenax Therapeutics (opens in new tab)
Solving for X

Our Research Impacts the Real World

Strong ecosystems for bioscience, environmental science, and more exist throughout the Chapel Hill region — backed by some of the top applied sciences and engineering departments in the nation. Learn more about the companies, resources, and collaborations that drive solutions.

Applied sciences and engineering converge in Chapel Hill through companies turning breakthrough research into market-ready solutions. Here’s a snapshot of innovators already making their mark:

  • iOrganBio (iOB) – An AI-guided cell manufacturing platform transforming human cell production, based at BioLabs on Franklin Street.
  • IrNex, Inc. – This UNC-Chapel Hill startup, formed in 2020, develops biomarker imaging software that detects cancer treatment responses in days rather than months.
  • Cortical Metrics – Specializes in quantitative, reliable, and efficient assessments of brain performance, advancing neurological research and diagnostics.
  • Intero Life Sciences – Building next-generation medical, pharmaceutical, and health tech solutions through integrative bioinformatics and AI.

Dozens of companies at every stage are developing and bringing solutions to the world’s greatest challenges right here in Chapel Hill. Ready to tap in? Your breakthrough belongs here.

Ready to join a community that is inherently curious? Our applied sciences ecosystem is fueled by collaborative research and an engineering mindset ready to tackle tomorrow’s toughest challenges.

BioLabs recently anchored our innovation district with a 23,000-square-foot facility on Franklin Street, helping innovators reach milestones faster. You can also tap into technical powerhouses like the Chapel Hill Analytical and Nanofabrication Laboratory (CHANL), a specialized nanofabrication lab that breaks down departmental silos through shared expertise. To move your ideas forward, UNC’s Office of Technology Commercialization and Be A Maker (BeAM) makerspace network provide the tools and strategy needed to transition from lab to market.

We also offer a talent pipeline that is just as robust.

Applied science businesses in Chapel Hill join an ecosystem built for discovery. All that’s missing is your vision.

Workforce & Demographics

Residents of Chapel Hill are among the most educated in the nation. Tap into an international workforce with diverse talent.

Find Talent

Sites & Incentives

Ready to see how your company fits into the Chapel Hill business community? Search sites, properties, and incentives for growing the local economy.

Search Sites

Location & Infrastructure

Chapel Hill is the perfect place to innovate, strategically positioned within North Carolina’s Research Triangle.

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Our Team

Here to Help

Not sure where to find an incentive application or business permit? Need insight into our local industries? Contact us and we’ll connect you to the right people and resources.

David Putnam

Economic Development Director

Sarah Potter

Business Vitality Manager

Get in Touch

Connect with Chapel Hill Economic Development to ask questions, explore opportunities, and learn more about why this community is right for you.