Boehringer Ingelheim Opens New R&D Center in Basel

NBE Therapeutics, a Swiss biotech founded in 2012 that became part of Boehringer Ingelheim in 2020, plays a pivotal role in the company’s oncology research strategy. The new facility will serve as a leading research center for advancing antibody-drug conjugates (ADC) research and development to develop transformative cancer therapies.

Boehringer Ingelheim's investment in NBE Therapeutics' Basel site is a key move in advancing cancer care. This bolsters its oncology pipeline, expands the ADC portfolio, and complements recent agreements and facility openings. The new center will develop next-generation ADCs, targeting tumor cells while minimizing impact on healthy tissue, enhancing cancer treatment options and patient quality of life.  

"This investment in a new, cutting-edge research center underscores our strong commitment to deliver breakthrough innovation to people living with cancer," said Jean Engela, CEO at NBE Therapeutics. "We are confident that this state-of-the-art building will enable our team of scientists to accelerate the development of next-generation ADCs, ultimately impacting the lives of patients battling cancer." 

The new facility represents an additional commitment of CHF 27 million (€28.8 million) in ADC R&D over several years. It will provide a sophisticated research environment to accelerate the development of innovative ADC therapies while fostering synergies through access to a broad pool of scientists and experts within the global Boehringer Ingelheim oncology network. 

“Switzerland offers an unparalleled biotech ecosystem. By strengthening our presence here, we are reinforcing our commitment to advancing innovative cancer treatments,” said Karl Penz, CFO of the Innovation Unit at Boehringer Ingelheim and Chairperson of the NBE Therapeutics Board of Directors. 

The new R&D center in Basel meets top Swiss sustainability standards, featuring energy-efficient design and responsibly sourced materials, offering 1,826 m² of labs and office space for seamless collaboration within Boehringer Ingelheim's global network.