EMD Serono facility expansion in Massachusetts set to advance immuno-oncology research

German pharmaceutical giant Merck KGaA has announced a significant investment of $70 million to expand its EMD Serono research and development (R&D) facility located in Billerica, Massachusetts. This expansion, which includes the construction of a new building, is set to drive innovations in critical areas like oncology, immuno-oncology, and immunology, helping the company advance its pipeline of life-changing drug discoveries.

Major Investment to Boost Drug Discovery and Innovation

Merck’s expansion plans involve the construction of a 145,000-square-foot building that will enhance the existing R&D facility. This new space will be equipped with wet laboratories, office areas, and a cafeteria to support the growing needs of the facility. Once completed, the building is expected to provide additional capacity for around 400 R&D employees, including both new and current staff members.

The new facility is slated to be finished by 2021, marking a key milestone in Merck’s ongoing investment in its U.S. operations. Since 2011, Merck has already invested over $150 million in the Massachusetts site and created more than 150 new jobs, further cementing its commitment to advancing the biopharmaceutical sector in the region.

A Strategic Move to Strengthen R&D Capabilities

Luciano Rossetti, the Head of Global Research & Development at Merck’s Biopharma division, commented on the expansion, noting the facility’s integral role in advancing the company’s drug pipeline. “Our talented and passionate R&D teams based in Billerica have been highly engaged in advancing a number of pipeline compounds,” Rossetti said. He added that Merck continues to strengthen its innovation footprint both in the U.S. and at its global R&D headquarters in Darmstadt, Germany, with the ultimate goal of providing transformational value to patients worldwide.

Boosting Massachusetts’ Position as a Life Sciences Hub

Merck’s investment in Billerica has not only boosted its own research capabilities but has also contributed to the state of Massachusetts’ leadership in the life sciences sector. Travis McCready, President and CEO of the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, emphasized the importance of Merck’s continued investment in the region. “The continued investment of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany in Massachusetts is a testament to the state’s global leadership in life sciences,” McCready said. “In working collaboratively with the town of Billerica, the company’s campus expansion over the past decade has not only helped attract and retain top talent but has also contributed to improving the lives of people with serious medical needs.”

Merck’s $70 million investment in the expansion of its EMD Serono R&D facility in Billerica, Massachusetts underscores the company’s commitment to advancing biopharmaceutical research in key therapeutic areas. With the addition of new lab space and a growing workforce, Merck aims to accelerate the development of life-saving therapies while contributing to Massachusetts’ thriving life sciences ecosystem.