Battelle announced Monday that it is launching a new company that will perform research and development of next-generation therapies, including cell and gene therapies (CGT). The new company called AmplifyBio is backed by Battelle and outside investors with experience in pharmaceutical markets and life sciences.
“For decades, Battelle has found new ways to innovate, AmplifyBio is a $200 million start-up with the backing of respected investors who will help us to move quickly and intelligently in this rapidly developing field of research,” commented Lou Von Thaer, president and CEO of Battelle and a 2021 Wash100 Award recipient.
AmplifyBio’s mission will be to speed up the development and research of next-generation therapies by creating and optimizing new technologies and working to solve the problems of scaling complex treatments to help as many people as possible.
“This is why Battelle exists—to happen to the world,” Von Thaer added. “We see a need, we see opportunities, we search for partnerships, and we keep Battelle at the leading edge of discovery for the benefit of humanity. I’m excited to see where the team takes AmplifyBio and proud to support its growth through our continued involvement.”
AmplifyBio plans to purchase a building and surrounding land on the Battelle campus. The 210,000-square-foot facility has state-of-the-art laboratory space and equipment to facilitate accelerated research into novel cell and gene therapies that AmplifyBio desires. The company will also perform research contracts for commercial clients.
J. Kelly Ganjei has been named president and CEO of AmplifyBio and is currently completing his leadership team. Ganjei has previously served as CEO of Cognate BioServices. He possesses over 26 years of experience in the life science and information technology sectors.
“There is great potential for advanced medicines to help so many patients across a diverse set of conditions, but there is no shortage of technical problems to solve across this sector,” Ganjei said.
“The earlier in their development lifecycle, we can help these products, the better the outcome for everyone,” “Combining the strength of Battelle with our investors will uniquely position us for rapid growth and the potential to help millions of people around the world,” Ganjei added.
