Sartorius Stedim Biotech Unveils Bioprocess Innovation Hub in Marlborough

Sartorius Stedim Biotech, a key player supporting the biopharmaceutical sector, has inaugurated its cutting-edge Center for Bioprocess Innovation in Marlborough, Massachusetts. This avant-garde space is designed to enhance teamwork, co-development, and on-site education with clients and external innovation partners, utilizing Sartorius’ state-of-the-art technologies in practical bioprocess applications.

New facilities have been introduced for research and process development to facilitate the optimization of next-generation therapeutic processes, comprehensive proof of concept trials, product demonstrations, and customer training sessions. By 2025, the addition of two GMP suites will enable the development of innovative manufacturing processes.

“Cell and gene therapies, along with other emerging treatments, provide groundbreaking solutions for patients with diseases that were once considered untreatable. These approaches are still in their early stages, necessitating the creation of new production methods to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. This advanced innovation center empowers us to utilize our expertise in bioprocessing tools and workflows, thereby streamlining and accelerating our clients’ journey to clinical trials,” remarked René Fáber, CEO of Sartorius Stedim Biotech.

Spanning 63,000 square feet, the facility comprises research and service labs, along with spaces for customer presentations and instruction. Expert teams will deliver services in process enhancement, optimization, and validation. Currently, 50 scientists and product developers are stationed at the hub with the future capacity to host over 120 bioprocessing specialists from both within and outside the company.

In 2025, Sartorius Stedim Biotech plans the introduction of two adaptable GMP suites, leveraging Sartorius workflows and tools. These suites will permit clients to advance their process development endeavors with Sartorius into the early stages of clinical production, broadening the company’s service spectrum with a priority on innovative manufacturing practices for cutting-edge therapies.

“The Greater Boston region boasts a unique ecosystem that nurtures innovation, cooperation, and expansion. It serves as a global epicenter for biotechnology and life sciences, offering access to top-tier academic institutions, modern research venues, and a highly talented workforce. Additionally, the area’s strong network of venture capital and industry links presents significant opportunities for strategic alliances. The timing and location are perfect for launching these essential capabilities needed to drive our clients’ success,” expressed Maurice Phelan, President of Sartorius North America.

“Massachusetts is a global leader in life sciences due to companies like Sartorius,” noted Yvonne Hao, Massachusetts Secretary of Economic Development. “This new center will act as a focal point promoting open collaboration and comprehensive research pathways for experts. We anticipate the company’s continued success and appreciate their efforts in ensuring our communities access cutting-edge therapeutic technologies.”

Recently, Sartorius Stedim Biotech has strengthened its foothold in the region. Initially operating from a collective lab in Boston’s Seaport District, the company acquired WaterSep BioSeparations in Marlborough in 2020 and opened a new Customer Interaction Center (CIC) for Bioprocess Equipment in 2021, both situated in proximity to the new innovation center. Over 100 employees are based at the three Marlborough sites, with approximately 1,800 Sartorius Stedim Biotech staff in North America.