Thermo Fisher Scientific has announced the expansion of its Research and Development (R&D) Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, with an investment of ₹160 crore. The new facility reinforces the company’s long-term commitment to India’s life sciences ecosystem and aligns with Karnataka’s Global Capability Centre (GCC) and biotechnology growth vision.
The expanded 37,000 sq. ft. center was inaugurated by Sanjeev Kumar Gupta, CEO of the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), and is expected to create over 100 new jobs.
Advanced R&D Capabilities
The enhanced facility integrates advanced automation and analytical platforms to support cutting-edge work in immunoassays, protein analysis, and cell-based studies. It aims to pioneer innovations in antibody design, development, and manufacturing, strengthening Thermo Fisher’s global scientific network.
Over the past 18 years, Thermo Fisher’s Bengaluru R&D center has:
- Developed 2,000+ recombinant antibodies,
- Tested 25,000+ antibodies under its validation program, and
- Produced 2,000+ primary and secondary antibodies for global research.
These contributions have advanced research in infectious diseases, antiviral therapies, and cancer biology, making Bengaluru a cornerstone of Thermo Fisher’s global innovation ecosystem.
Government and Industry Collaboration
At the inauguration, Priyank Kharge, Karnataka’s Minister for Electronics, IT & Biotechnology, and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, emphasized the state’s focus on life sciences innovation:
“Karnataka has long positioned itself as a vibrant hub for biotechnology and life sciences. The expansion of Thermo Fisher’s facility is a testament to the state’s continued emphasis on this objective.”
He highlighted how initiatives such as the Karnataka Biotechnology Mission are fostering innovation through collaboration between government, academia, and industry.
Thermo Fisher’s Global Commitment
Gianluca Pettiti, Executive Vice President and Sector President, Life Sciences, Diagnostics and Applied Sector at Thermo Fisher, said:
“Bengaluru is a strategic hub for Thermo Fisher, and this expansion reflects our long-term commitment to India’s innovation ecosystem.”
Manoj Prasad, Vice President, IT & Digital Solutions, APAC & MEA, added:
“With this new infrastructure and potential talent infusion, we can accelerate scientific discovery and strengthen our global R&D network.”
Karnataka’s Role in India’s Bioeconomy
Karnataka remains India’s biotech and pharmaceutical powerhouse, contributing:
- 10% of India’s pharmaceutical revenues,
- 60% of the nation’s biotechnology revenues, and
- Hosting 221 formulation units, 74 bulk drug units, and 35 CROs.
The state’s bioeconomy, valued at USD 31 billion, continues to grow at an annual rate of 10.7%, supported by strong infrastructure and policy backing.
Alignment with GCC Vision
Thermo Fisher’s expansion directly supports Karnataka’s Global Capability Centre (GCC) ambitions, as the new facility integrates discovery, design, and manufacturing under one roof.
With over 1,400 professionals across R&D, software, and product teams in Bengaluru, Thermo Fisher exemplifies how R&D-driven GCCs can position India as a hub for high-value scientific innovation.
Conclusion
Thermo Fisher’s ₹160 crore expansion marks a milestone in India’s life sciences landscape — deepening its R&D footprint, creating high-skilled jobs, and strengthening Karnataka’s reputation as a global leader in biotechnology and GCC-driven innovation.
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