Bioeconomy

Turn your passion for science into a purpose-driven career. Nebraska’s higher education institutions help optimize your pathway into the state’s growing bioeconomy.

• Ranked by Niche as one of the best schools for biology in the state, Creighton University’s Department of Biology offers hands-on experience through faculty-mentored research that builds confidence and real-world skills.
• For those drawn to agriculture and life sciences, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is the gold standard. Its College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources is one of the nation’s best, offering everything from animal science to food technology. With over 10 PhD programs and multiple master’s and professional degrees, graduates from the school can take their pick from The Good Life’s more than 1,400 bioscience businesses and startups.
• Interested in increasing your earning potential as an innovator in human health? The Nebraska Medical Center offers 23 nationally ranked graduate programs in molecular biology, biostatistics, pharmaceutical sciences, and more —  leading to deep specialization for in-demand careers.

Here in Nebraska, bioscience education goes beyond opening doors to creating fulfilling career pathways.

Nebraska’s bioscience landscape is powered by world-class companies driving innovation in diagnostics, pharmaceuticals and animal health. Headquartered in La Vista, Streck operates a state-of-the-art, 278,000-square-foot facility that manufactures and ships cutting-edge laboratory products to more than 13,000 labs in 65 countries. Streck’s global impact and local presence make it a standout employer for those interested in biotechnology, production, and quality assurance.

In the Metro region, Merck Animal Health has maintained a strong presence since 1955. With more than 300 professionals across departments such as R&D, Regulatory Affairs, Biotechnical Support, and Biotechnology Manufacturing, Merck offers a wide range of job types for bioscience professionals — from entry-level manufacturing associates to business development and operations specialists.

In total, over 1,400 employers are involved in Nebraska’s bioeconomy, reflecting the state’s growing reputation as a hub for global innovation. Whether you’re launching your career or looking to grow within the industry, Nebraska offers a strong and stable path forward.

Are you experienced in the biosciences and looking to start your own enterprise? Nebraska’s innovation ecosystem offers resources to help bioscience entrepreneurs turn breakthroughs into businesses. At Nebraska Innovation Campus, the Biotech Connector is the state’s first wet lab incubator. This 7,700-square-foot space offers flexible leasing options for early-stage and high-growth biotech startups. Work in a shared common lab with access to specialized equipment like incubators and centrifuges, or rent a private suite starting at 2,000 square feet.

For growing or established bioscience companies, Bio Nebraska is your go-to industry resource. It supports business scalability through networking, education and advocacy. Take part in dynamic programming like Women in Bioscience or Bio Innovations Midwest — an annual conference in Omaha designed to foster partnerships and explore the future of the bioscience economy.

With hands-on lab space and robust professional networks, Nebraska empowers bioscience entrepreneurs to scale ideas into impact.