San Antonio is set to become a hub for cutting‑edge agricultural science. Texas Biomedical Research Institute (Texas Biomed) will host Flyttr’s New World screwworm research project, a venture expected to create about 40 jobs and help safeguard the state’s cattle, other livestock, wildlife and household pets.
Why the project matters to Texas families
The New World screwworm is a parasitic fly that feeds on the tissue of warm‑blooded animals. While it can rarely affect birds and humans, it has not sickened any people in the current outbreak. For Texas ranchers and farmers, an uncontrolled infestation could devastate herds and threaten family livelihoods.
State‑of‑the‑art containment lab
Flyttr will conduct its work in Texas Biomed’s Biosafety Level 3 (BSL‑3) containment laboratory. The lab, the only facility of its kind available in Texas, requires scientists to wear full protective suits and other safety gear while handling the insects. Executive Vice President Cory Hallam explained that the institute’s lab was the only space capable of supporting the high‑security research and happened to be available between other studies.
From sterile flies to larger‑scale production
The research will begin in the coming weeks. Scientists aim to create sterile screwworm flies that cannot reproduce, effectively breaking the pest’s life cycle. They will also test additional technologies that could accelerate eradication efforts. Once the laboratory phase proves successful, Flyttr plans to move production to a larger, warehouse‑type facility for mass‑release of sterile flies.
Economic boost for the city
Beyond the scientific benefits, the project promises a meaningful economic impact. Hallam said Flyttr is hiring both locally and nationally, providing training for new workers and collaborating with the city as the operation expands. The addition of roughly 40 positions aligns with San Antonio’s growing reputation as a center for biotechnology and scientific innovation.
Local leaders voice support
San Antonio’s mayor has publicly praised the initiative, noting its importance to the state’s agricultural sector, job creation, and the safety of families. Hallam echoed that sentiment, emphasizing how protecting against an invasive species safeguards the livelihood of Texas farmers and, ultimately, the well‑being of the community.
Flyttr’s research is slated to start at Texas Biomed within weeks, with larger‑scale production to follow as the project advances.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
