Novozymes to open new R&D center in U.S.

Novozymes recently announced the establishment of a new research and development center in the U.S. dedicated to its bioagriculture business. The center will be located near the Research Triangle Park in Cary, North Carolina where the company will invest $36 million over the next three years and create 100 new research and development jobs.

“The world needs sustainable agricultural solutions now more than ever before. By boosting our research and development of environmentally-friendly microbial technology, we will help farmers meet this demand sooner rather than later,” said Thomas Videbaek, Executive Vice President of Business Development. “The new R&D center in North Carolina is a concrete step to help speed our technology to market from a state with a long history of agricultural innovation.”

Speeding technology to market

Scientists at the new site in North Carolina will research and develop beneficial microorganisms found in the soil. The resulting technology will focus on improved crop yield, fertility and pest control for growers around the world.  The significant expansion of R&D resources will enable Novozymes’ scientists to pursue more and better biological solutions for the ever-changing challenges facing global agriculture.

“Novozymes and North Carolina have been good partners since we opened the doors to our North American headquarters here in 1979,” said Adam Monroe, President, Americas. “We look forward to opening our new facility in a state that has worked hand in hand with us over the years to help our business thrive.”

Leveraging the Research Triangle

The location of the new facility will give Novozymes access to one of the largest biotech clusters in the U.S. Established in 1959, The Research Triangle Park (RTP) was created to attract and grow research and development operations in North Carolina.  RTP is home to more than 170 global companies that foster a culture of scientific advancement and competitive excellence and is located between three major universities: Duke University in Durham, North Carolina State University in Raleigh, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

“The research and development jobs Novozymes will create will further strengthen our hi-tech hub and be an example of the strong talent pool and attractive quality of life that characterizes Wake County, the Research Triangle and the state,” said North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory.

The project was made possible in part by a performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund of up to $400,000. The One NC Fund provides financial assistance, through local governments, to attract business projects that will stimulate economic activity and create new jobs in the state. Companies receive no money up front and must meet job creation and investment performance standards to qualify for grant funds.  These grants also require and are contingent upon local matches.