LAS VEGAS - The University of Nevada, Las Vegas today dedicated its first regional campus - a health science and biotechnology-focused facility in the heart of Las Vegas' downtown medical district. Designed to serve Southern Nevada through innovative research partnerships, health science education and unique clinical activities, the 18-acre Shadow Lane Campus is home to UNLV's Biotechnology Research Center and its School of Dental Medicine.

"With its dual focus on scientific innovation and community service, the Shadow Lane Campus will be a true regional hub for health science activity," said UNLV President Carol C. Harter. "It is very appropriate that our first regional campus focus on biotechnology and health science - an area of intense need for Southern Nevada and the west."

The Shadow Lane Campus includes infrastructure to support various forms of biomedical and biotechnological research and education, through partnerships with the Nevada Cancer Institute, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and others. For example, a Forensics laboratory will serve law enforcement personnel worldwide with DNA fingerprinting data. Post-graduate education programs in such areas as forensics and microbiology will also be offered.

"The Biotechnology Research Center will tremendously expand research opportunities for students and faculty," said Penny Amy, Associate Provost for Campus Development, "while at the same time providing a state of the art facility for business incubation and public/private partnership in health science."

Shadow Lane is also home to UNLV's School of Dental Medicine, with its tri-fold mission of education, community service and discovery. While graduating dentists with a uniquely well-rounded background in all aspects of oral health care, the School of Dental Medicine also provides services to those who have limited access to care through full-service dental clinics in the community. Through partnerships with the Clark County School District, the state of Nevada and others, the school also provides oral health education and outreach to urban and rural communities throughout the state.

UNLV President Carol C. Harter, Executive Vice President & Provost Raymond W. Alden III, Associate Provost Penny Amy and Vice Provost & Dean of Dental Medicine Patrick J. Ferrillo, Jr., were joined at this morning's dedication ceremony by U.S. Senator Harry Reid, U.S. Congresswoman Shelley Berkley and University Regent Thalia Dondero, along with other community leaders and project partners.