GlaxoSmithKline chooses Laval facility as vaccine R&D headquarters

Laval, QC – GlaxoSmithKline says it has designated its facility in Laval, Quebec, as the North American headquarters of its vaccines division. The site will conduct vaccine research and development, and will also be the administrative centre for the company’s vaccines operations in North America.

To support this crucial new role, the company says it has created more than 60 new high-calibre positions and is completing an investment of $50 million to expand and upgrade existing laboratory facilities, including the construction of a new state-of-the-art serology lab, clinical development and operational costs.

Scientists in Laval will focus research and development work in the areas of adjuvant technologies, molecular biology, immunology, respiratory viral vaccines, allergy, oncology and process development.

The company adds that staffing will increase by 20% by the end of 2007. It currently employs more than 1,400 employees in the province, and 3,300 in Canada.

“Our facilities and staff in Laval are playing a pivotal role in the development of new and innovative vaccines for the world while supporting a growing and vibrant R&D sector in Quebec and Canada,” said Nathalie Garcon, head of research and North America R&D, GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals.

The company already supplies approximately 75% of the Canadian government’s seasonal flu vaccine purchases, and is also working with federal and provincial governments to ensure appropriate pandemic preparedness.