Southern Research

Southern Research is a Birmingham, Alabama-based, non-profit research organization established in 1941 that operates as a contract research organization and scientific institute. It conducts basic and applied research across four primary divisions: Drug Development, Drug Discovery, Energy and Environment, and Engineering. The organization provides nonclinical and clinical trial support services, including bioanalytical analysis, efficacy testing, and therapeutic development in areas such as oncology, infectious disease, and neuroscience. Additionally, it develops and tests emissions control technologies for industrial and utility sectors and provides specialized laboratory space and mentorship through its Station 41 initiative to accelerate biotechnology startups.

This research and development work is critical for commercial and government partners seeking to translate complex scientific challenges into life-changing solutions. Southern Research has a history of significant impact, having been responsible for nearly 700 patents and contributing to the development, testing, or refinement of more than 50% of the active chemotherapies globally. By leveraging strategic partnerships—such as with the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)—and maintaining state-of-the-art facilities, the organization drives innovation in personalized medicine, clean energy, and public health while fostering economic development in the region.