Research
The Tampa Medical & Research District (TMRD) is a leading hub for clinical and translational research—where academic medicine, health system scale, and industry collaboration converge to accelerate discovery and improve patient outcomes. Anchored by Tampa General Hospital (TGH), USF Health and the University of Tampa, the district supports a high-performing research ecosystem that translates scientific advances into real-world therapies, diagnostics, and care models.
At a glance:
- $750 million in annual research funding at USF, an $11.6 million increase over last year and a 37% bump in funding since 2022.
- Hundreds of active interventional clinical trials conducted between TGH and USF Health
- 200+ physician investigators leading research at TGH
- ~800 residents and fellows training within the district
A Connected Research Ecosystem
Research in the TMRD is intentionally designed to be collaborative, not siloed. The proximity of leading academic institutions, a top-tier academic health system, and specialized research centers creates an environment where ideas move quickly from concept to application. This connected model enables interdisciplinary collaboration across medicine, engineering, data science, and life sciences. Additionally, it accelerates partnerships with industry, CROs, and CDMOs, attracts top-tier researchers, clinicians, and innovators, and supports continued growth in research funding and commercialization activity. The result is a district that not only produces research—but scales it.
Translational Research: From Bench to Bedside
A defining strength of the TMRD is its focus on translational research—bridging basic science and clinical application. The longstanding partnership between Tampa General Hospital and USF Health exemplifies this model, bringing together joint clinical trials, integrated physician-scientist teams, and the rapid application of discoveries into patient care. This approach has supported advancements across a range of critical areas, including precision medicine and targeted therapies, advanced diagnostics and imaging, and organ preservation through minimally invasive treatment approaches. By aligning researchers, clinicians, and industry partners, the district accelerates the path from discovery to real-world deployment, improving outcomes for patients and advancing the future of care.
Clinical Trials & Advanced Research
TMRD partners are actively leading and participating in high-impact clinical trials, providing patients with access to innovative therapies while contributing to global medical knowledge. Key areas of strength include oncology and immunotherapy (including CAR T-cell advancements, cardiovascular and neurological research, medical device and medtech innovation, and infectious disease and biologics development. Notable capabilities and outcomes include ~600 interventional trials underway at TGH|USF, leadership in FDA-approved therapies emerging from national trials, significant federal and defense research funding (including Department of Defense awards), and a diverse patient population supporting robust, generalizable study results. This depth of activity positions Tampa as a growing destination for clinical research investment.
Research + Education Integration
The TMRD integrates research directly into medical and health sciences education, ensuring that the next generation of clinicians and scientists is trained in a deeply research-driven environment. More than 800 residents and fellows train across Tampa General Hospital and partner institutions, and nearly all medical students participate in research opportunities during their education. Through hands-on involvement in clinical trials, laboratory research, and translational studies, learners gain practical experience that connects scientific discovery to patient care. This integrated model strengthens talent retention while supporting the long-term sustainability and growth of the district’s research ecosystem.
