Life sciences firm chooses Cambridge for HQ

International life science firm Illumina is to open its new European base at the Chesterford Research Park in Cambridgeshire.

The firm has signed a pre-let agreement for the Gonville Laboratory, which will further enhance its research and development activities.

Illumina's Chesterford site plays a key role in research and development.

Alan Kersey

Vice president and site manager

Illumina

This 41,500-square foot facility will be in addition to Illumina's activity at the park through its 2006 acquisition of Solexa.

Alan Kersey, vice president and site manager for Illumina, said: "Illumina's Chesterford site plays a key role in research and development.

"We have enjoyed a long-standing collaborative relationship with the Chesterford Research Park management group, and look forward to extending our tenure in this new facility.

The world's largest pharmaceutical firm Pfizer recently extended its research and development presence at the science park with the acquisition of the Emmanuel Laboratory.

Speaking of Illumina's move, Martin Slyvester from the park's developer Churchmanor Estates, said: "It's a tremendous endorsement for Chesterford Research Park that another existing occupier has decided to expand its facilities with us and Illumina's increased presence strengthens the Park's reputation as a centre of excellence in the South Cambridge Biotech cluster.