A research and manufacturing company that creates products for the defense, health care and energy sectors has expanded its Charlottesville operation.
Last Wednesday, Luna Labs unveiled a new facility of more than 55,000 square feet in the city’s Rose Hill neighborhood. Also unveiled were some of the company’s cutting-edge products in the biotech space and a rebranded logo.
“This expansion is a significant milestone in our 25-year growth story here in Charlottesville,” Luna Labs CEO James Garrett said in a statement. “We are fully committed to this community, and this investment represents our dedication — and excitement — in fostering local innovation, creating high-tech jobs, and developing technologies that have real impact.”
Operating out of Charlottesville since 2022, Luna Labs invested $200,000 in the expansion project, which will create new 20 positions at the site. A few employment opportunities already are posted on the company’s website, including biotech firmware engineer lead and research and development program manager, with salaries ranging from $95,000 to $115,000.
The company’s new real estate at 706 Forest St. will largely serve as Luna Lab’s R&D center for a number of biotech projects, one of which is NanoVac, a carbon nanotube platform for delivering drugs used in cancer treatments, vaccines and other therapies. Luna Labs also said the facility will house its research in biomarker identification, traumatic brain injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder.
“The expansion allows the company to increase manufacturing capabilities for TrueClot Bleeding Control Trainers, Dislotech Joint Reduction Trainers, and Acuity Corrosion Technology, while existing space is being reassigned for work on protective coatings and sealants, including GlassLock transparent armor sealant,” reads a July 16 Luna Labs statement regarding the expansion.
GlassLock is one of Luna Lab’s innovative products recently approved for use on Humvee vehicles used by the U.S. military. The durable and environmentally friendly sealant has also been authorized for foreign military sales, according to the company.
The company is collaborating with Charlottesville City Hall and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership on employee recruitment, training and funding opportunities. Luna Labs also is enrolled in a course offered by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership known as Virginia Leaders in Export Trade Program which assists domestic exporters in the commonwealth grow their international exports.
Source: www.dailyprogress.com