3M Relocates R&D to Life Sciences Opportunity Zone in Loughborough, UK

In an April 1, 2019 press statement, 3M Drug Delivery Systems (DDS) UK organization has revealed that it is relocating its R&D team to the Charnwood Campus, which is an officially designated Life Sciences Opportunity Zone (LSOZ) in Loughborough, United Kingdom.

The new R&D site is located in more than 1300 m² of laboratory space, which has been configured specifically for the development of inhalation therapies to treat respiratory diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The overhaul and modernization of the property took two years to complete.

“I’m delighted that 3M’s DDS Division has moved its R&D lab to Charnwood Campus. 3M’s work in the field of life sciences, producing pharmaceuticals and cutting-edge med tech, makes it one of the most innovative enterprises in Leicester and Leicestershire,” said Kevin Harris, chair, Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership. “I’m particularly pleased that 3M is able to take advantage of Charnwood Campus’ dual designation as both an Enterprise Zone and the UK’s first Life Sciences Opportunity Zone. LSOZ status means greater collaboration between academia and industry, to drive forward the life-saving discoveries of tomorrow.”

“This move is very exciting because most of our incredible UK-based R&D team will now be working together closer than before to pursue groundbreaking innovations in the field of drug delivery technology,” added Silvia Perez, 3M DDS, president and general manager. “Improved collaboration, networking, and interaction between the business and R&D functions is beneficial to reaching our goals.”

Source: 3M