Biotechnology in Texas
Biotechnology has blossomed in Texas over the last several years, with more than 140 life science companies calling the Houston region home.  That is double the number from 2003.  In 2008, Texas was named as one of the Top 5 regions in the world for biotechnology economic development by FierceBiotech.  The state may authorize up to $3 billion in bonds over 10 years on behalf of a newly formed Cancer Research and Prevention Institute.  Lexicon itself was awarded $35 million from the Texas Enterprise Fund in July 2005 for the creation of a comprehensive knockout mouse embryonic stem cell library containing 350,000 cell lines, reflecting the state's commitment to basic research in genetics.  With initiatives like this, it is easy to see why Texas is quickly becoming a great place to work in the biotechnology industry.

Living in The Woodlands
Our corporate headquarters and state-of-the art facilities are located in a forested enclave in The Woodlands, Texas, a short drive north of the Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston.  The Woodlands is a friendly and hospitable district that is internationally known as a model of community planning and development.  It is composed of over a half dozen villages and is home to about 85,000 people.  Each village adds a unique flavor to The Woodlands mix, and together they offer shopping centers, cinemas, golf courses, medical facilities, walking trails, and sports parks.   In addition, the community boasts numerous excellent public and private schools.  The median home price in The Woodlands is just over $300,000, with prices starting below $150,000.

Overall, The Woodlands is home to more than 1,300 businesses ranging from small stores to internationally known companies.  The Woodlands Town Center is adjacent to a major regional shopping mall, popular dining spots, and a performing arts pavilion that seats 17,000 for outdoor performances.  According to the January 14, 2008 edition of Pollstar magazine, The Woodlands entertainment pavilion was fifth in the world for outdoor amphitheaters in terms of tickets sold in 2006 and 2007.  The Houston Symphony Orchestra performs at the pavilion, as well as other diverse musicians such as Jimmy Buffet, Brooks and Dunn, the Moody Blues, and Avril Lavigne, among others.  

Although separate and distinct from each other, Houston is a short drive from The Woodlands for those who prefer a large city atmosphere.  Houston is the fourth most populous city in the United States and a leader in commerce, energy, healthcare, education, and the arts.

To explore everything The Woodlands has to offer, start by visiting:  http://www.thewoodlands.com/.

Highlights
• Low cost of living and affordable housing
• No state or local income taxes
• Expanding economy in diverse industries
• More than 40 colleges, universities, and institutes in the greater Houston area
• Permanent ballet, opera, symphony, and theater companies in nearby Houston
• NASA's Johnson Space Center
• Shopping galore
• Fantastic restaurants 
• Local professional and college sports
• Nearby beaches and lakes

General Information about Houston
Texas for Visitors
Online City Guide
MSN City Search
Houston Online Resources
Citysearch