Purdue University is launching new academic programs, expanding research capabilities and forging partnerships along America’s Hard-Tech Corridor. This initiative integrates human, animal and plant health research to address complex global challenges.
A central focus of Purdue’s strategy is the introduction of three new degrees that will prepare students for high-impact careers.
The dual BS/MS in advanced chemistry emphasizes clean chemistry principles, equipping graduates to create scalable, energy-efficient solutions for modern chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing. A master’s degree in pharmaceutical engineering tackles emerging challenges in pharmaceutical production. At the same time, a new biomolecular design program combines chemistry, computer science and biology to train students in AI-driven molecule design for applications such as personalized medicine and climate-resilient plants.
Purdue also deepens its industry ties by collaborating with Eli Lilly and Company on a Learning and Training Center at Lilly’s Medicine Foundry within the LEAP District. This center will provide hands-on biotechnology and pharmaceutical manufacturing training, enhancing workforce readiness and innovation along the Hard-Tech Corridor.
Facilities development plays a critical role in Purdue’s One Health initiative. Plans include the $160 million Nursing and Pharmacy Education Building, supporting collaborative learning for health care professionals and a new research facility dedicated to life sciences and advanced chemistry. These investments bolster Purdue’s infrastructure to accelerate research and education in AI-guided drug discovery, sustainable chemistry and real-time anomaly detection in manufacturing processes.
Faculty recruitment is a key component of the initiative. Purdue’s interdisciplinary hiring efforts will focus on fields like chemistry, biochemistry and chemical engineering, driving innovation in sustainable chemical processes, advanced synthesis and AI-enhanced pharmaceutical production.
Beyond new programs and facilities, Purdue has made strides with projects like the Low Institute for Therapeutics and the William D. and Sherry L. Young Institute, which focus on translating cutting-edge research into real-world solutions. A $20 million gift to establish the Center for Health Analytics and Therapeutic Intelligence highlights the university’s focus on leveraging AI to improve medication development and application.
For more information, visit purdue.edu.
This reporting is made possible by a grant from the Indianapolis African-American Quality of Life Initiative, empowering our community with essential health insights. https://iaaqli.org/
Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.
Hanna Rauworth is the Health & Environmental Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper, where she covers topics at the intersection of public health, environmental issues, and community impact. With a commitment to storytelling that informs and empowers, she strives to highlight the challenges and solutions shaping the well-being of Indianapolis residents.
