Roche builds “best research center in the world”

Roche has laid the foundation for its new research center (pRED Innovation Center) in Basel. A state-of-the-art laboratory and office environment will be completed by the end of 2023 at the company headquarters, providing space for about 1,800 researchers.

According to Roche’s own information, it is investing CHF 3 billion in development at the Basel site overall. From this, around CHF 1.2 billion will be put towards the new research center alone, which will comprise four new buildings. This investment is said to be a clear commitment to Switzerland as a location for research and business. Jürg Erismann, Head of the Basel/Kaiseraugst site at Roche, is quoted in an article by SRF, saying: “We are building the best research center in the world.” In the press release from Roche, he adds that the work environment being created can adapt to the changing requirements of the research division and digitization.

Sustainability is particularly important in constructing the new buildings; for instance, recycled concrete is being used to create the shell. Solar power systems will also be installed on the roofs of two buildings.