ESD announces completion of Niagara University Biomedical Research Institute Laboratory on Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus

State grant supports new science research lab to encourage student research and experimentation, STEM-focused workforce development, regional collaboration with partner institutions

Empire State Development press release

Empire State Development (ESD) announced the completion of the Niagara University Biomedical Research Institute Laboratory on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. The new lab, located at 73 High St., allows Niagara University students to conduct research and experimentation focused on precision medicine and applied synthetic biology.

"This new laboratory is a powerful example of how strategic investment can accelerate innovation and create opportunity in Western New York," said ESD President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight. "With the support of Gov. Hochul, Niagara University is giving students a front-row seat to the future of medicine. I am proud to see this facility open its doors, as it will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for life-saving research and strengthen our position as a premier hub for the health sciences."

The project was supported with a $78,750 grant from ESD’s Regional Council capital fund program. The grant funds were used to purchase advanced research equipment and build offices and a research laboratory, including:

√ Laboratory space for analytical instrumentation

√ Cell culture facility

√ A chemistry laboratory with a chemical fume hood

√ Central laboratory space with multiple lab benches

The Rev. James J. Maher, C.M., president of Niagara University, said, "This new laboratory is a direct extension of Niagara University’s mission to drive clinical research that improves human health and wellness. By placing our students at the center of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus with our world-class faculty, we are providing them with the high-level research opportunities necessary to become the next generation of scientific leaders. This investment from Empire State Development ensures our research into groundbreaking therapeutics like the Cholestosome will continue to flourish right here in Western New York."

The mission of the Niagara University Biomedical Research Institute, which was established in 2023, is to drive advancements in basic and clinical research, with a focus on discovering and applying a groundbreaking general antiviral therapeutic. This is achieved through the development of an innovative drug delivery system called Cholestosome, aimed at enhancing health and wellness. The institute provides invaluable opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in high-level research and collaborate with esteemed health care professionals. By doing so, the institute not only contributes to the field of biomedical research but also aligns with Niagara University’s commitment to education and training. The ultimate goal is to nurture and train the next generation of scientists, empowering them to make significant contributions to the scientific community and beyond.

Niagara’s research lab is managed by Dr. Mary McCourt, a professor of chemistry at NU. McCourt’s main areas of research are the development of Cholestosome technology and urine-based biomarker analysis for diagnostic screens focused on breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. McCourt holds 14 patents for the Cholestosome technology, which was developed at NU and is moving toward commercialization.

Western New York Regional Economic Development Council co-chairs Eric Reich and Steve Stoute said, "The completion of this laboratory marks a significant milestone in our regional strategy to align academic excellence with the life sciences industry. By investing in Niagara University’s presence on the medical campus, we are not only fostering groundbreaking research into therapeutics like the Cholestosome, but also ensuring that our workforce is equipped with the specialized skills needed to lead the global biomedical field."

Congressman Tim Kennedy said, “The completion of Niagara University’s Biomedical Research Institute Laboratory on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus reinforces our region as a hub for cutting-edge research and discovery. Biomedical research drives the breakthroughs that save lives, strengthen our health care systems, and fuel economic growth throughout Western New York. This new facility will give students hands-on experience with advanced technologies, helping the next generation of scientists, clinicians and practitioners to transform patient care. I’m grateful to Gov. Hochul and Empire State Development for their continued commitment to our region’s future. By supporting projects like this, we are ensuring that Western New York remains at the forefront of biomedical research and that our community continues to benefit from the life-saving impact of cutting-edge health care.”

New York State Sen. April N.M. Baskin said,” This investment brings cutting-edge research within reach for students right here in Western New York and is helping advance innovations like Cholestosome technology. Developed by Niagara University professor Dr. Mary McCourt, this promising technology could someday be used to treat lead poisoning, a serious public health issue impacting children and families everyday here in Buffalo. By expanding access to student research, we’re building a more inclusive pipeline into the life sciences and positioning Buffalo as a leader in innovation whose impact will extend far beyond our region.”

Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, “Investment, innovation and location are three words that come to mind when hearing about the completion of Niagara University’s new biomedical research institute laboratory. Investment in our students and the life sciences industry. Innovation in the course of the lab work. And what better location than the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus to do this important work? This is a wonderful investment that will bear fruit in the years to come.”

City of Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan said, “This is a welcome addition to the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus and another step forward for downtown Buffalo. Investments like this bring new energy into our city’s core, support cutting-edge research, and help train the next generation of workers right here in Buffalo. I thank Gov. Kathy Hochul and Empire State Development for their continued commitment to our city and our future.”

Erie Couty Executive Mark Poloncarz said, “The Niagara University Biomedical Research Institute Laboratory adds to the critical mass we are seeing at the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, which has a growing reputation for innovation, collaboration and excellence. Students today can participate in cutting-edge medical research at a world-class facility located in the heart of Erie County, learning skills that will help to save lives far into the future. My thanks to ESD and Niagara University for making this laboratory a reality and for adding another jewel to the medical campus.”

The Regional Economic Development Council initiative is a key component of the state’s approach to state investment and economic development. In 2011, 10 Regional Councils were established to develop long-term strategic plans for economic growth for their regions. The councils are public-private partnerships made up of local experts and stakeholders from business, academia, local government, and non-governmental organizations. Learn more at regionalcouncils.ny.gov.

Empire State Development (ESD) is New York’s chief economic development agency (www.esd.ny.gov). For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov and www.esd.ny.gov.