Boehringer Ingelheim Opens $31.5 Million Oncology Antibody-Drug Conjugate Facility in Switzerland

Boehringer Ingelheim announced the official opening of a new antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) research and development facility in Basel, Switzerland, through its wholly owned subsidiary, NBE Therapeutics. According to the company, the $31.5 million facility will serve as a global hub for advancing the development of ADCs and is designed to accelerate progress on next-generation cancer therapies.1

"This investment in a new, cutting-edge research center underscores our strong commitment to deliver breakthrough innovation to people living with cancer," said Jean Engela, CEO, NBE Therapeutics, in a press release. "We are confident that this state-of-the-art building will enable our team of scientists to accelerate the development of next-generation ADCs, ultimately impacting the lives of patients battling cancer."

The investment builds upon Boehringer Ingelheim’s recent oncology growth initiatives, including a potential $1.3 billion licensing agreement with Synaffix B.V., announced in January, and the recent opening of a new oncology research site in Vienna, Austria. Together, these developments highlight the company’s ongoing efforts to expand its oncology pipeline and research infrastructure.1,2

“Switzerland offers an unparalleled biotech ecosystem. By strengthening our presence here, we are reinforcing our commitment to advancing innovative cancer treatments,” said Karl Penz, chief financial officer, innovation unit, Boehringer Ingelheim, chairperson, NBE Therapeutics board of directors, in the press release.

The new Basel facility will host approximately 50 scientists, supporting enhanced collaboration across Boehringer Ingelheim’s global oncology network. In addition to scientific teams, the site will also house a range of supporting roles in human resources, administration, and management. Featuring an energy-efficient design and responsibly sourced materials, the 1,826 m² building provides both laboratory and office space optimized to facilitate integrated research and seamless coordination with Boehringer Ingelheim’s broader operations.

The facility has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, receiving the DGNB Certificate Gold from the Schweizer Gesellschaft für Nachhaltige Immobilienwirtschaft, based on criteria established by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nachhaltiges Bauen.1

Boehringer Ingelheim acquired NBE Therapeutics in December 2020 in a deal valued at approximately $1.3 billion.3

“As the Government of Basel-Stadt, we want to provide a good environment for companies to prosper, particularly in the life sciences field,” said Kaspar Sutter, head, Department of Economic, Social, and Environmental Affairsof the Canton of Basel-Stadt; member of the government, in the press release. “The development of NBE Therapeutics is a success story and it has been a privilege to accompany and support NBE Therapeutics on this journey from the very beginning, starting at the Tech Park Basel. We very much appreciate this significant investment by NBE Therapeutics and the strong commitment of Boehringer Ingelheim to the Basel Area.”

References

1. Boehringer Ingelheim strengthens antibody-drug conjugate portfolio with new NBE Therapeutics R&D center in Basel. Boehringer Ingelheim. April 3, 2025. Accessed April 7, 2025. https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/science-innovation/human-health-innovation/new-nbe-therapeutics-antibody-drug-conjugate-rd-center

2. Boehringer Ingelheim broadens oncology portfolio with license for Synaffix’s ADC technology. Boehringer Ingelheim. January 9, 2025. Accessed April 7, 2025. https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/partnering/human-health-partnering/new-partnership-and-significant-pipeline-progress

3. Boehringer Ingelheim to Acquire NBE-Therapeutics for EUR 1.18 Billion, Significantly Enhancing Its Cancer Pipeline Portfolio with Novel Antibody-Drug Conjugates. Boehringer Ingelheim. December 10, 2020. Accessed April 7, 2025. https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/science-innovation/human-health-innovation/agreement-acquire-nbe-therapeutics