Thousand Oaks, California, September 3, 2025

News Summary

Amgen has announced a $600 million investment in a new research and development facility in Thousand Oaks, California. The groundbreaking is set for the third quarter of this year. This facility will consolidate Amgen’s researchers and scientists to enhance collaboration and innovation in drug discovery, addressing domestic demand and supply chain challenges faced by the biotech industry.

California: Amgen to Invest $600 Million in New R&D Facility

Amgen, a leading biotechnology company, has announced plans to invest $600 million in a state-of-the-art research and development facility located in Thousand Oaks, California. Groundbreaking is scheduled for the third quarter of this year, marking a significant expansion of Amgen’s domestic capabilities in drug discovery.

The new R&D center aims to consolidate Amgen’s researchers, engineers, and scientists under one roof, facilitating collaboration and enhancing the innovation process in drug discovery. Unlike Amgen’s manufacturing facilities, this center will focus exclusively on research and is expected to provide advanced tools to drive scientific breakthroughs.

Amgen, which is headquartered in Thousand Oaks and manages nearly 2 million square feet of biotech space in the surrounding Conejo Valley region, is responding to increasing economic pressures, including U.S. import tariffs and ongoing supply chain challenges. This new investment reflects a broader trend among pharmaceutical companies aiming to bolster domestic research and production capabilities amid shifting market demands.

Context of Investment

The decision comes at a time when there is a significant increase in demand for domestic biomanufacturing. In fact, a recent report from commercial real estate firm JLL indicates that 15 major drugmakers plan to invest over $270 billion in U.S. projects in 2025 alone. This represents a remarkable 185% increase in biomanufacturing activities, highlighting the urgent need for expanded capacity in the U.S. pharmaceutical sector.

In response to this demand, Alexandria Real Estate Equities has already added over half a million square feet of lab space in the first half of this year and has plans for additional developments. Amgen itself had previously announced a $900 million expansion of its manufacturing facility in Columbus, Ohio, and a $1 billion investment in a new site in Holly Springs, North Carolina.

Regulatory Support and Industry Momentum

The push for domestic research is also supported by regulatory measures, including the FDA’s newly introduced program designed to streamline the approval process for new drug manufacturing sites in the U.S. Moreover, the White House is working to shorten the typically lengthy construction timelines for pharmaceutical facilities, which can currently take up to 10 years.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 has been attributed as a key driver behind Amgen’s increased investment in domestic facilities, with the company expressing optimism about forthcoming legislation that may further encourage growth in the biotech sector. The CEO emphasized that their commitment aims to reinforce U.S. drug supply chains and strengthen domestic scientific research and innovation.

Amgen’s initiatives mirror similar investments made public by other pharmaceutical giants, including AstraZeneca, Eli Lilly, Sanofi, and Novartis, all of whom have recently announced substantial commitments to enhance their U.S. footprints. This trend underscores a concerted effort within the industry to reduce foreign dependencies and move pharmaceutical production back to American soil.

Conclusion

As Amgen prepares to break ground on its new R&D facility, the company joins the ranks of many in the pharmaceutical industry advocating for a strengthened domestic presence to address the evolving dynamics of drug discovery and manufacturing.

FAQ Section

What is the primary purpose of Amgen’s new facility in Thousand Oaks?

The facility is primarily focused on research and development, consolidating Amgen’s researchers, engineers, and scientists to enhance drug discovery efforts.

How much is Amgen investing in this new project?

Amgen is investing $600 million in the new research and development center.

When is the groundbreaking for the new facility expected to occur?

The groundbreaking for the new facility is expected in the third quarter of this year.

Is the new center a manufacturing facility?

No, the new center will not be a drug manufacturing facility; it will focus purely on research and development.

Why is Amgen increasing its domestic research and production capabilities?

Amgen is responding to U.S. import tariffs and supply chain pressures, as well as a growing demand for biomanufacturing in the U.S.

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Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO

The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.

Amgen to Invest $600 Million in New R&D Facility in California