Thermo Fisher Scientific doubles lab capacity

Grace Sweeney

A US multinational has demonstrated its faith in Cork with a major investment at its Cork campus.

This week Thermo Fisher Scientific officially opened an expanded laboratory which will allow for the development of medicines for cancer, lupus, psoriasis, and many other illnesses.

Thermo Fisher’s Cork site specialises in developing and manufacturing active pharmaceutical ingredients supporting early phase clinical studies right through to commercial supply, for a range of customers for use in life-changing treatments.

The expanded laboratory is the latest aspect of expansion at the company’s active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) facility since 2019.

There has been a five-fold increase in clinical manufacturing capacity and the site has gained more than 20 global pharmaceutical and biotech customers in recent years.

The research and development centre of excellence was opened by Simon Coveney TD, Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

The minister said: “Thermo Fisher’s investment in this cutting-edge laboratory underscores the innovation and collaborative spirit that drives Ireland’s research and development sector.

“This facility will undoubtedly further position Ireland as a hub for pharmaceutical and manufacturing excellence,” he added.

Vincent Hingot, President of the company’s drug substance business said: “As a centre of excellence for chemistry development, our investment in Cork showcases Thermo Fisher's commitment to advancing development of critical medicines in Ireland.

“Our Cork colleagues are helping make life better for patients around the world,” he said.

Edel Collins, General Manager of the Cork site said that the 20 litre laboratory is important in the development of medicines as it allows us to identify and address scale-up risks prior to large-scale manufacture.

“With our existing laboratory at capacity, this new one will help address current demand while creating room for growth. It will allow us to support more customers and get potentially life-saving medicines to patients faster,” she added.

CEO at IDA Ireland, Michael Lohan said that the opening of this scale-up laboratory is a testament to the Thermo Fisher’s commitment to fostering scientific excellence and ground-breaking research in Cork.

Mr Lohan added that the investment bolsters Irelands reputation as a global hub for innovation.