AstraZeneca launches process research and development lab

AstraZeneca has announced the inauguration of a modern global process research and development laboratory. The site is situated alongside the firm’s research and development centre based in Bangalore, India.

Covering 8,000 square metres which can host up to 75 process scientists supported by other staff, the facility was built at a cost of $15 million (7.66 million pounds).

The laboratory was opened by chief executive officer of the firm David Brennan, with a number of guests of honour present, including chief secretary of the government of Karnataka Mr P B Mashishi and chairman and chief mentor of Infosys Technologies Narayana Murthy.

AstraZeneca reports that the laboratory will support the firm’s existing programme for drug discovery in India concentrated on developing a treatment for tuberculosis, with the facility having a focus on new chemical entities.

Mr Brennan commented that he was “privileged” to launch this new facility to highlight the company’s dedication to its business operations and research staff in India that are committed to the discovery of new treatments for diseases.

“Facilities of this kind will leverage India’s strengths in process chemistry,” he said.

Last month, the firm announced that it had invested $120 million in a process research and development at its site in Macclesfield, England, with this investment being the largest to date at this location.