The TMC's investment in innovation is paying off. Johnson & Johnson Medical Devices Cos. today opened the Center for Device Innovation at the Texas Medical Center. Housed within the TMC Innovation Institute, the 26K SF facility will host JJMDC R&D staff working on select internal projects along with strategically aligned external ventures.

The TMC Innovation Institute is also home to JLABS @ TMC, a life science incubator and TMC’s first collaboration with Johnson & Johnson. It opened in 2016.

Described as an “engineering studio,” the facility is appointed with tools to translate ideas to products, including a machine shop, a mechanical testing lab, an electronics workspace and component lab, a 3D printing lab and a virtual reality demonstration area. The space is designed to spur creativity, with a conference room made of spare building materials — a symbol of new applications for traditional ideas — and a wall with glass cases to display medical devices.

“We have already experienced tremendous growth within our ecosystem, and we believe that the CDI @ TMC will serve as a cornerstone for medical device invention and commercialization, further advancing our leadership in life sciences,” Texas Medical Center President and CEO Bill McKeon said.