US giant opens new laboratory in Gothenburg

The new purpose-built facility complements the company’s existing bioanalytical laboratories in the US and China. It will serve pharmaceutical and biotech customers in Europe and across the globe.

“The facility is more than just a new location. It is a strategic investment in the future of drug development and the advancement of life changing therapies,” said Niveen Mulholland, Vice President of Bioanalytical and Vaccine Services at Thermo Fisher Scientific, at the opening event in Gothenburg.

“It answers our customers calls to expand our bioanalytical capabilities in Europe, allowing us to support pharmaceutical and biotechnology customers across every phase of development,” she said. 

Committed to Sweden's life science ecosystem

Around 40 people are already working at the new state-of-the-art laboratory. This number is expected to grow and reach up to 140 during the next two years. 

Apart from the new lab, the company also has an R&D partnership with the AstraZeneca BioVentureHub, located nearby at the heart of AstraZeneca’s major R&D site. 

“Beyond the science, today is about community and partnership, and we are proud to deepen our commitment to Sweden’s thriving life science ecosystem. And to contribute the continued growth of the region’s status as a hub for innovation, collaboration and investment,” said Niveen Mullholland, during her speech. 

Sweden – a key part of their growth strategy 

The US-headquartered company has an annual revenue of USD 45 billion. It has a growing presence in Sweden, now with around 1,500 employees at five locations. 

The country plays a central role in its growth strategy, according to Santosh Nair, President of the Immunodiagnostics Division at Thermo Fisher Scientific. 

“Over the last few years, we have doubled our number of employees here in Sweden. It reflects our commitment to Sweden, and not only as a market. It also reflects the strength of scientific talent, of collaboration, and science capabilities here,” he said.   

Life science in Gothenburg - in a phase of growth and expansion

Gothenburg is one of Sweden’s key life science hubs, with around 600 companies, more than 10,000 employees, and strong links between academia, healthcare and industry. The sector is experiencing a period of strong growth and expansion, with major investments in infrastructure, new company establishments and a growing number of employees. 

The addition of Thermo Fisher Scientific’s PPD Clinical Research business further strengthens the region’s expertise and capabilities, as well as its position in Europe as a hub for advanced drug development and health innovation.

“I am really pleased that the new lab is now up and running. This is important not only for Gothenburg and Sweden, but also for Europe as a whole,” said Patrik Andersson, CEO at Business Region Göteborg, who took part in the ribbon cutting ceremony on 19 May.