The NC Research Campus, based in Kannapolis, is a stunning joint venture between Dole Foods, Duke University and the University of North Carolina system. Built on the site of a former textile mill, this campus-like redevelopment forges a bold new path for the City.

The major components of the campus include the Dole-NC State Institute for Advanced Fruit and Vegetable Science; the UNC Center for Excellence in Nutrition; a science boarding school for girls directed by UNC Charlotte; a state-of-the-art Dole Analytical Laboratory; a fermentation facility; and an incubator for start-up firms. Laboratory Corporation of America (LabCorp) will also establish a major presence within the development.

Duke University will also locate its Institute for Translational Medicine to the NC Research Campus. In addition to the Institute, Duke scientists will also run the Core Lab.

David Murdock, CEO of Dole Foods, Castle & Cooke, and former owner of Cannon Mills, is the visionary catalyst for the North Carolina Research Campus and will build the complex. His total investment is projected at $1 billion for research facilities, office space, town homes and retail. The UNC institutions will then fund and operate their individual programs.

Mr. Murdock envisions a campus where researchers walk to work, talented high school students mingle with internationally renowned scientists, and citizens of Kannapolis find opportunity for solid employment and growth.