" We should emphasize life sciences for two reasons. First, we have a running start. Many Utahns will know of Utah's niche in life sciences because of our national recognition for developing the first human artificial heart, the first functional prosthetic arm, the discovery of the first breast cancer-causing gene and the cloning of the world's first mule. In fact, the Salt Lake Valley earned the nickname "bio-valley" from Science Digest because of the number of successful biotech companies located between our northern mountain ranges. The life science industry employs approximately 30,000 Utahns, has revenues in excess of $15 billion and pays an annual wage nearly 50 percent higher than the average.

" The second reason to focus on life science jobs is that each high-paying job created — whether it be an engineer, scientist or lab tech — generates additional economic activity. Analysts estimate that for every 100 jobs created in the life science industry, approximately 260 other jobs are created throughout the economy. So in a very real sense, when you employ a scientist, you also employ a plumber, a carpenter or a school teacher. "

"Hatch began looking at stem cell research, and that included conversations with religious leaders, Nobel laureates, scientists, doctors and constituents, he said. ... broke ranks with Republicans, publicly supporting the expansion of ES research."