BASF inaugurated its new research facilities in Research Triangle Park (RTP), North Carolina at a grand opening ceremony. This $33 million expansion includes 80,000 square feet of office, laboratory and greenhouse facilities.
"This expansion demonstrates BASF's strong commitment to Agricultural Solutions and strengthens our research and development capabilities," said Peter Eckes, President BASF Plant Science. "This investment demonstrates our commitment to our employees, our neighbors and the state of North Carolina."
North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory, Commissioner Steve Troxler, U.S. Representative David Price, Mayor of Durham William Bell and other guests from government, business and academia were invited to join BASF employees at the event.
The facilities include a climate-controlled greenhouse and laboratories for plant biotechnology research as well as a new environmentally-controlled insect production facility to expand insect control research.
"A significant share of BASF's insecticide research is conducted in RTP. These larger facilities will enable us to evaluate our promising insecticide candidates faster," said Nevin McDougall, Senior Vice President, BASF Crop Protection North America.
