Bioscience Industry in Bend, Oregon

Bend has developed into one of the most dynamic bioscience clusters in the Pacific Northwest, anchored by a legacy of pharmaceutical innovation, sustained investment and strong regional partnership, supported in part by the ongoing work of Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO) to attract, grow and retain bioscience companies.The industry’s roots trace back to Bend Research, founded in the 1970s, which specialized in drug-delivery technologies and pharmaceutical development. The company was the source of several spinoff companies that call Central Oregon home. Over time, Bend Research became a cornerstone of the local economy and was ultimately acquired by Lonza, a global life sciences company. This transition marked a pivotal moment, connecting Bend to international markets and creating the conditions for continued expansion.

Since then, the region has attracted and grown a mix of global firms and emerging companies, including Thermo Fisher Scientific, Medline ReNewal and Serán Bioscience, the latter of which recently announced a major 100,000-square-foot manufacturing expansion. These investments reflect a larger trend of capital inflow and industry maturation, positioning Bend as a center for pharmaceutical manufacturing, research and commercialization.

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Industry Growth and Economic Impact

The bioscience and life science sector in Bend is not just established, it is outperforming both state and national growth trends. This rapid growth and high concentration show the sector is a key driver of Bend’s economy and identity.

Employment Growth: Over the past decade, bioscience employment in Bend has grown by +104%, more than doubling in size. By comparison, national bioscience employment grew approximately +25% over the same period.

Outpacing Local Economy: While Bend’s total private sector employment grew by 38.6% from 2014–2024, the bioscience and life science sector grew nearly three times faster, indicating it is a key driver of the city’s economic expansion rather than just keeping pace.

Industry Concentration: The concentration of bioscience employment in Bend is approximately 36% higher than the statewide average, signaling a strong regional specialization, competitive advantage and critical mass.

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High-Quality Jobs and Wages

A key contribution of the bioscience sector is the quality of its jobs. Bioscience jobs in Bend pay nearly 80% more than the average private-sector job, boosting household spending, tax revenues, and economic resilience.

• Average Bioscience Wage (Bend): $122,500
• Average Private-Sector Wage (Bend): $69,000
• Average Wage (Deschutes County): $66,000

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Cluster Development and Industry Composition

Bend’s bioscience sector grew through cluster development as early pioneers drew talent, suppliers and complementary firms. The region now includes companies in:

• Pharmaceutical research and development
• Contract development and manufacturing (CDMO)
• Medical devices and diagnostics
• Testing and analytical services

This diversification limits dependence on any single employer and supports stability and innovation. Ongoing investment further strengthens Bend’s status as a pharmaceutical and life science hub in Oregon.

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Education, Workforce and Innovation Pipeline

Sustaining this growth requires alignment between industry and education. These efforts build a sustainable talent pipeline and help Bend companies grow.

Oregon State University – Cascades (OSU-Cascades) offers degree programs aligned with bioscience and is spearheading an Innovation District to support research, commercialization and startup activity.

Central Oregon Community College (COCC) is collaborating with EDCO and local employers to develop a targeted curriculum that prepares students for careers in bioscience and manufacturing.

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Outlook

With deep roots, rapid growth and major workforce and infrastructure investments, Bend’s bioscience sector is well-positioned for the future. Its high-wage jobs, strong growth and rising national profile highlight the industry’s importance. As new facilities open, educational programs expand and the OSU-Cascades Innovation District develops, Bend is well-positioned to further its role as a top bioscience hub in Oregon and beyond.

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