Golden State Today

Aggie Square, the innovation district anchored by the University of California, Davis, has revealed that the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL) will be its latest research tenant. The laboratory, renowned for its pioneering animal DNA testing and genetics services, will be located within UC Davis’ School of Veterinary Medicine, expanding its presence beyond the Davis campus into Sacramento.

Gary S. May, chancellor of UC Davis, expressed, “By bringing veterinary science to Aggie Square, we are expanding our research footprint and advancing our mission in Sacramento. This strategic move highlights our commitment to accelerate life-changing discoveries and advance human and animal health to improve future outcomes.”

Dr. Mark Stetter, dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine, shared his enthusiasm, stating, “Having the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory in Aggie Square is an exciting next step in our establishment of veterinary programs throughout California and beyond. This marks Veterinary Medicine’s first footprint in Sacramento, and we look forward to VGL’s successful relationships with future Aggie Square residents and the potential industry partners this move could produce.”

Dr. Rebecca Bellone, director of VGL, highlighted the significance of the move, stating, “This move puts VGL’s facilities on par with the world-class offerings our clients from all over the world have come to expect. This move will take VGL to even greater heights by allowing us to expand our diagnostic and research services in an environment that will foster rapid innovation through collaboration with industry partners and colleagues.”

Aggie Square is envisioned as a hub for research programs, private industry partners, classrooms, student housing, and public-facing programs that engage local communities and entrepreneurs. The district is projected to inject $5 billion annually into the regional economy and support 25,000 ongoing jobs. The first phase of Aggie Square is anticipated to be completed in the first quarter of 2025.