Syngenta plans to construct a new biotechnology research facility adjacent to its existing research campus in Research Triangle Park, N.C. The $71 million investment, which broke ground in June 2011, will focus on discovering and developing new agronomic traits to bring solutions to growers across the world.   

“This investment demonstrates our commitment to R&D and to remain at the forefront of plant genetics research,” said Sandro Aruffo, Syngenta head of research and development. “The advanced technologies that will be implemented at this new site will accelerate our R&D efforts to develop agronomic traits that will enable crops to better withstand complex environmental challenges.”

Building on the recent launches of Agrisure Viptera, Agrisure Artesian and Enogen, research at the site will focus on traits that can better tolerate climate variability, combat plant stresses such as drought and enhance crop productivity and plant performance. In addition to the current focus on corn and soybean, research will be expanded to incorporate other crops such as sugar cane, cereals, rice and vegetables.

The facility will feature research laboratories and growth environments including climate-controlled greenhouses and precision growth chambers. It is expected to be fully operational in the second half of 2012.

For more detailed information regarding the expansion, please visit
www.syngentabiotech.com/RTPexpansion.